Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a French scent hound — a long-bodied, short-legged dog with long ears and a nose second only to the Bloodhound's.

History

It was bred in France to trail rabbit and hare on foot, the low build keeping its nose close to the ground and letting hunters follow along behind. The name comes from bas, French for low.

Temperament

The breed is known for being gentle, patient and easygoing, good with children and other dogs. It is also famously stubborn once a scent takes hold, an independence bred in for the hunt.

Care and training

It needs regular moderate exercise and a securely fenced space, and training rewards patience and food over repetition. The long ears need regular cleaning, and the short coat is otherwise easy.

Health

The long back and heavy build bring risks of spinal problems and joint strain, the long ears invite infection, and the breed gains weight easily. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.