Everything You Need to Know About Basset Hounds: The Long-Eared Charmers

Meet the Basset Hound: Those Droopy Eyes Had Me at Hello

The first time I locked eyes with a Basset Hound at my local dog park, I literally couldn’t even. Those soulful, slightly droopy eyes peering out from beneath long, velvety ears? The wrinkled brow that makes them look perpetually concerned about the economy? The short, sturdy body supported by those adorably stubby legs? I was done for. Completely obsessed.

If you’ve ever encountered one of these low-riding, long-eared charmers, you probably get it. Basset Hounds have a way of waddling straight into your heart with their unique combination of goofiness and dignity. There’s something undeniably special about this breed that has made them beloved companions for centuries and pop culture icons (Hush Puppy shoes, anyone?).

Whether you’re considering adding a Basset to your family, already share your home with one of these lovable hounds, or are just curious about these distinctive dogs, I’ve put together the ultimate guide to Basset Hounds. From their fascinating history to their quirky personalities and specific care needs, I’m covering everything you need to know about these charismatic canines. So settle in (maybe with your own Basset sprawled across your lap) as we dive deep into the wonderful world of Basset Hounds!

The Rich History Behind Those Long Ears

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of Basset ownership, let’s take a moment to appreciate where these unique dogs came from, because their history is actually super interesting and explains so much about their distinctive appearance and personality.

Ancient Origins and Royal Connections

The Basset Hound’s story begins in France (oui, they’re French!), where they were developed from bloodhounds in the Middle Ages. The name “Basset” actually comes from the French word “bas” meaning “low” – a perfect description of their short-legged stature. These dogs weren’t just bred to be cute, though; they were specifically developed for hunting small game like rabbits and hares in dense underbrush.

Their short legs were actually a feature, not a bug! This design allowed hunters on foot to follow them easily (unlike faster hounds that required hunters on horseback). Their long ears serve a practical purpose too – they help stir up scents from the ground and direct them toward their incredibly sensitive noses. And those loose, wrinkly skin folds? They trap scent particles, enhancing their already impressive tracking abilities.

Bassets became particularly popular with French aristocracy, and after the French Revolution, they found their way into the hearts of the common people as well. They eventually made their way to England and America, where they continued to charm everyone they encountered.

From Hunting Hounds to Family Companions

While Basset Hounds were originally working dogs, today most serve as beloved family pets rather than hunters. That said, many of their hunting traits remain firmly intact – especially their legendary stubbornness and that nose that’s always searching for interesting scents (more on that later!).

The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885 and has maintained steady popularity in the United States ever since. They’ve also enjoyed moments in the spotlight through famous Bassets like Flash from “The Dukes of Hazzard” and the iconic Hush Puppies mascot. Despite their celebrity status, though, the Basset Hound has remained remarkably true to its original form and function over the centuries.

Personality & Temperament: What to Expect From Your Basset

If you’re considering bringing a Basset Hound into your life, you’re probably wondering what they’re actually like to live with. Let me break it down based on my experience with these charming pups and the countless Basset owners I’ve connected with.

The Basset Mood Board: Sweet, Stubborn, and Surprisingly Sassy

If I had to sum up Basset Hound personality in three words, they would be: sweet, stubborn, and sassy. These dogs somehow manage to be incredibly loving companions while also having minds entirely their own.

Bassets are generally gentle, patient, and good-natured. They typically get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats if properly socialized. They’re not usually high-strung or aggressive, preferring to go with the flow rather than cause a fuss. This laid-back attitude makes them excellent family dogs, especially for families looking for a medium-sized breed that isn’t overly energetic.

But don’t mistake their easygoing nature for complete compliance! Bassets are hounds through and through, which means they can be impressively stubborn when they want to be. They were bred to follow scents independently, making decisions without human input. This independent streak is still very much alive in modern Bassets, who may listen to your commands with a thoughtful expression before deciding to completely ignore them. It’s not that they don’t understand—they just might have other priorities!

Many Basset owners are also surprised by the sassy, almost comical personality these dogs often develop. They can be quite expressive, with a range of vocalizations from classic hound baying to grumbles, groans, and even what sounds suspiciously like talking back. My friend’s Basset, Humphrey, has perfected the art of the dramatic sigh when he doesn’t get his way!

Social Butterflies with Selective Hearing

Basset Hounds are typically very social creatures who enjoy being part of family activities. They’re not usually one-person dogs, instead spreading their affection generously among all family members. They’re known for being particularly good with children due to their patient nature and sturdy build that can tolerate a bit of rough play.

However, their social nature has a flip side – Bassets don’t tend to do well when left alone for long periods. They can become bored and lonely, which may lead to destructive behavior or excessive howling (and trust me, those hound howls can reach impressive volumes).

As for training, well… let’s just say Bassets require patience and consistency. That selective hearing I mentioned earlier? It becomes remarkably pronounced during training sessions, especially if there are interesting scents nearby. Positive reinforcement methods work best, particularly when food rewards are involved – most Bassets are highly food-motivated, which can be leveraged to overcome their stubborn streaks.

The Basset Hound Look: More Than Just Adorable Ears

The Basset Hound’s appearance is perhaps one of the most distinctive in the dog world. Let’s break down their physical characteristics and what makes them so unmistakably unique.

Physical Characteristics That Make Them Unmistakable

The most obvious feature of Basset Hounds is, of course, those gloriously long ears. They’re among the longest ears of any dog breed and can reach up to 7 inches in length! But Bassets are more than just their ears:

Size: Despite their short stature, Bassets are not small dogs. They typically weigh between 40-65 pounds and stand about 14 inches at the shoulder. They’re essentially big dogs on short legs!
Body: They have long, low-slung bodies with short, powerful legs. Their chests are deep, and they have a substantial bone structure that gives them surprising heft.
Head: Bassets have a large, well-proportioned head with a domed skull. Their muzzle is deep and heavy with loose skin that forms wrinkles.
Eyes: Their eyes are typically diamond-shaped, dark, and often described as sad or soulful. The lower eyelids often droop slightly, adding to their mournful expression.
Skin: One of their defining features is loose, elastic skin, especially around the head and neck, which forms characteristic wrinkles and folds.
Tail: Bassets have a long tail that’s usually carried high with a slight curve. When they’re on a scent, their tail often stands up like a flag (known as “flagging”).

Coat Colors and Maintenance

Basset Hounds have short, smooth coats that come in several color combinations. The most common are tri-color (black, tan, and white), red and white, and lemon and white. Their coats are relatively easy to maintain compared to some breeds, requiring weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils.

That said, Bassets do shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding seasons in spring and fall. If you’re someone who needs an immaculately clean home at all times, you might find the Basset’s shedding challenging. In my experience, keeping a good vacuum handy and embracing the “dog hair as a condiment” lifestyle is the way to go with these pups!

One aspect of Basset appearance that requires special attention is those magnificent ears. The length and droopiness that make them so adorable also make them prone to ear infections, as they don’t get much airflow. Regular ear cleaning is essential for Basset health (more on this in the care section).

Health Considerations: Loving Your Basset for the Long Haul

Like all purebred dogs, Basset Hounds have some breed-specific health considerations that potential owners should be aware of. Understanding these can help you provide the best care and potentially extend your time with your droopy-eared friend.

Common Health Issues to Watch For

Bassets are generally healthy dogs, but they are predisposed to certain conditions due to their unique physical structure:

Ear Infections: Those beautiful long ears create the perfect warm, moist environment for bacteria and yeast. Regular cleaning and checking for signs of infection (odor, redness, discharge) is crucial.
Obesity: Bassets love food and have a relatively low activity level, making them prone to weight gain. Extra pounds put additional strain on their already challenged backs and short legs.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): Like many deep-chested breeds, Bassets can suffer from this potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. Feeding smaller meals and avoiding exercise right after eating can help reduce the risk.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Their unique body structure makes them susceptible to joint issues. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions.
Eye Issues: Cherry eye, glaucoma, and ectropion/entropion (eyelid problems) can affect the breed.
Intervertebral Disc Disease: Due to their long backs and short legs, Bassets are at higher risk for spinal disc problems.

When purchasing a Basset puppy, it’s important to work with a reputable breeder who conducts health testing on their breeding dogs. For those adopting, a thorough vet check can help identify any existing issues that might need management.

Lifespan and Aging Considerations

The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is about 10-12 years. With proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate diet, and moderate exercise, many Bassets live full, healthy lives well into their senior years.

As they age, Bassets may develop arthritis due to their body structure. Providing joint supplements early on (with veterinary guidance), maintaining a healthy weight, and ensuring they have comfortable bedding can help manage this common issue. Some owners find that ramps or steps help their older Bassets access furniture or cars without jumping, which can strain their backs.

Remember that Bassets are stoic by nature and may not show obvious signs of pain or discomfort until a condition is fairly advanced. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for catching and addressing health issues early.

Living With a Basset: Daily Life and Care

So what’s it actually like to share your home with a Basset Hound? Let me walk you through the day-to-day realities of Basset ownership, from exercise needs to grooming routines.

Exercise Requirements: Less Than You Might Think

Despite their hunting heritage, modern Basset Hounds are not high-energy dogs. In fact, they’re quite content with moderate exercise – typically 30-60 minutes daily of walking or gentle play. They enjoy sniffing expeditions (remember that incredible nose!) more than vigorous exercise.

That said, don’t mistake their laid-back nature for complete laziness. Bassets need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and mental well-being. Without it, they can become overweight and potentially destructive due to boredom.

A few important exercise considerations specific to Bassets:

Avoid excessive jumping or stair climbing, especially in puppies, as it can strain their long backs and short legs.
Be cautious with off-leash time in unsecured areas. Once a Basset catches an interesting scent, their hearing becomes remarkably selective, and they may follow their nose with single-minded determination regardless of your calls.
Swimming is not usually a Basset strong suit – their heavy bones and short legs don’t make them natural swimmers. If taking your Basset near water, consider a dog life jacket.

Grooming Needs: More Than Meets the Eye

While their short coat might suggest minimal grooming needs, Bassets actually require regular maintenance to stay healthy and comfortable:

Ears: Their trademark ears need weekly cleaning with a veterinarian-approved solution to prevent infections. Check regularly for redness, odor, or discharge that might indicate problems.
Skin folds: The wrinkles and folds, particularly around the face and neck, should be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent skin infections and odor.
Coat: Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt helps remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing helps manage the increased hair loss.
Nails: Regular nail trims are essential as Bassets’ nails tend to grow quickly, and their relatively sedentary lifestyle doesn’t naturally wear them down.
Teeth: Like all dogs, Bassets benefit from regular dental care, including tooth brushing and dental chews.
Bathing: Monthly baths are typically sufficient unless your Basset has found something particularly fragrant to roll in (a favorite hobby of many hounds).

One thing Basset owners quickly learn to manage is the drool factor. While not as drooly as some breeds like Newfoundlands or Saint Bernards, Bassets do produce their fair share of slobber, especially around mealtimes or when they’re eyeing a particularly desirable treat. Keeping a small drool towel handy is a life hack many Basset owners swear by!

Feeding Your Basset: Balancing Their Love of Food

Bassets are notorious food enthusiasts – many will eat until they can barely move if given the opportunity. This food motivation makes them easy to train with treats but also puts them at high risk for obesity.

A high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level is essential. Because of their propensity for weight gain, measuring food precisely rather than free-feeding is strongly recommended. Your veterinarian can help determine the appropriate daily caloric intake for your individual dog.

Some feeding tips specific to Bassets:

Use elevated food and water bowls to make eating more comfortable with their short legs and long ears.
Consider a slow-feeder bowl if your Basset tends to gulp their food, which can contribute to bloat risk.
Be careful with treats – they add up quickly and can significantly contribute to weight gain.
Remember that those soulful eyes begging for table scraps are highly effective but giving in too often can lead to health problems and undesirable begging behaviors.

Training Your Basset: Patience is More Than a Virtue—It’s a Necessity

Let’s be real—training a Basset Hound requires a special kind of patience. These dogs aren’t known for their eager-to-please attitudes like Golden Retrievers or Border Collies. Instead, they approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” mentality that can be both challenging and endearing.

Understanding the Basset Mind

To train a Basset effectively, it helps to understand how they think. These dogs were bred to work independently, following scent trails without constant human direction. This independent streak means they’re not naturally inclined to look to humans for guidance.

Additionally, their incredible sense of smell can be both a blessing and a curse during training. If there’s an interesting scent nearby (and there always is to a Basset), your carefully planned training session might take a backseat to their olfactory explorations.

Some key principles for successful Basset training:

Start early: Begin training and socialization as puppies, when they’re most receptive to new experiences and learning.
Keep sessions short: Bassets have limited attention spans for formal training. Five to ten-minute sessions several times a day are more effective than one long session.
Use high-value treats: Regular kibble might not cut it when competing with environmental distractions. Save special treats like small pieces of cooked chicken or cheese for training sessions.
Be consistent: Establish clear rules and enforce them consistently. Bassets are masters at detecting and exploiting inconsistencies in training.
Stay positive: Harsh corrections or punishments will likely backfire with this sensitive breed. Positive reinforcement methods that reward desired behaviors yield much better results.

Special Training Challenges

Two areas deserve special attention when training Bassets: housebreaking and recall.

Housebreaking a Basset Hound can test even the most patient owner’s resolve. They’re notoriously slow to house train compared to many breeds. Establishing a strict routine, frequent potty breaks, generous praise for success, and crate training can all help with this process. Just expect it to take longer than the training books suggest, and remember that setbacks are part of the journey, not a reflection of your training skills.

Recall—getting your Basset to come when called—is another significant challenge. Once they’re on a scent trail, Bassets can become almost oblivious to the outside world, including your increasingly desperate calls. This is why many Basset owners never allow their dogs off-leash in unsecured areas. For those determined to work on recall, start in distraction-free environments, use extremely high-value rewards, and consider a long training lead for safety during practice.

Despite these challenges, with patience and consistency, Bassets can learn basic commands and even excel in scent-based activities like tracking. The key is working with their natural instincts rather than against them.

Is a Basset Hound Right for You?

After reading all this information, you might be wondering if a Basset Hound is the right fit for your lifestyle and home. Here are some considerations to help you decide whether those adorable droopy eyes should be staring at you from your living room.

Ideal Homes and Owners

Basset Hounds typically thrive in these environments:

Families with children: Their patient, gentle nature makes them excellent family dogs, especially with respectful children.
Multi-pet households: They generally get along well with other dogs and even cats if properly socialized.
Homes where someone is present most of the day: Bassets are social and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
People who appreciate a dog with character and don’t mind some stubbornness: If you find their independent nature charming rather than frustrating, you’ll enjoy life with a Basset.
Those who don’t mind some dog hair and occasional drool: If you’re looking for an immaculately clean home at all times, the Basset might challenge your standards.

Bassets can adapt well to both suburban and rural environments. They can even do well in apartments if given sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, as they’re not particularly high-energy indoors.

When a Basset Might Not Be the Best Choice

On the flip side, Bassets might not be ideal for:

Very active people seeking a running or hiking companion: While they enjoy walks, Bassets aren’t built for high-impact or endurance activities.
Those wanting a highly trainable, obedient dog: If you’re looking for a dog to perform complex tricks or compete in obedience trials, other breeds might be more suitable.
People who work long hours and can’t arrange mid-day breaks: Bassets need companionship and regular bathroom breaks.
Those sensitive to noise: Bassets are hounds, and they will bay and howl on occasion. If peace and quiet are paramount, this might be challenging.
People unwilling or unable to commit to their specific health and grooming needs: The ear cleaning, skin fold care, and potential health issues require dedication.

Finding Your Basset: Adoption and Purchasing

If you’ve decided a Basset Hound is the right dog for you, the next step is finding one to bring home. There are several routes to Basset ownership, each with its own considerations.

Rescue and Adoption

Many wonderful Bassets need homes, and adoption is a fantastic option to consider. Specific Basset Hound rescue organizations exist throughout the country, dedicated to finding homes for Bassets in need. Additionally, general rescue organizations and shelters occasionally have Bassets or Basset mixes available.

Advantages of adoption include:

Saving a life and giving a deserving dog a second chance
Often receiving a dog that’s already housetrained and past the destructive puppy stage
Lower initial cost compared to purchasing from a breeder
Many rescue dogs come with some basic vetting and health screenings already completed

If adopting, be prepared to fill out an application and possibly undergo a home check. While this might seem intrusive, it’s simply to ensure the dog is going to a suitable environment where they can thrive.

Reputable Breeders

If you decide to purchase a Basset puppy, finding a reputable, ethical breeder is absolutely crucial. Good breeders prioritize health and temperament over appearance, conduct appropriate health testing, provide proper socialization for puppies, and offer ongoing support to puppy buyers.

Red flags that might indicate a less reputable breeder include:

Puppies always available with no waiting list
Multiple litters on the premises
Inability to see the puppies’ parents or living conditions
No health testing documentation
Selling puppies before 8 weeks of age
Unwillingness to answer questions or provide references

Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2000 for a Basset Hound puppy from a reputable breeder. This might seem expensive, but proper breeding practices, including health testing, veterinary care, and puppy socialization, are costly. The investment in a well-bred puppy often pays off in fewer health problems and more predictable temperament down the road.

Life with a Basset: Worth Every Wrinkle

Living with a Basset Hound is an experience unlike any other in the dog world. They bring a unique combination of sweetness, stubbornness, and comedy to everyday life that their devoted owners find irresistible.

Yes, there will be moments of frustration when your Basset pretends not to hear you calling because they’ve found something much more interesting to sniff. There will be cleaning up of drool, managing of ear infections, and picking up of shed hair. There might be howling at seemingly random times and the occasional stubborn refusal to come inside when it’s raining (despite the fact that they hate being wet).

But there will also be the warmth of a Basset curled against you on the couch, the comedy of watching them run with their ears flapping majestically, and the way they make everyone smile with their unique appearance and charming personality. There will be unwavering affection, gentle companionship, and a dog who loves you completely—even if they don’t always show it by immediate obedience.

As a longtime admirer of this distinctive breed, I can tell you that Basset people are a special bunch. Once you’ve experienced life with these long-eared charmers, it’s hard to imagine a home without one. Their blend of dignity and goofiness, independence and affection, creates a companion that keeps life interesting and hearts full.

If you decide to welcome a Basset Hound into your family, prepare for your life to be richer, funnier, occasionally more challenging, and absolutely more dog-hair-covered. But I promise, you’ll find it’s worth every wrinkle, howl, and stubborn moment along the way.