Basset Hound

Basset Hound is a breed bred during the Middle Ages for hunting in dense terrain. The physical appearance of this breed is characterized by short stubby legs, long, drooping ears and facial wrinkles. It is a hound that stands out for its keen sense of smell.

General details

Dogs of the breed are small in size and very expressive in appearance. They weigh between 18 and 29.5 kilograms and reach up to 38 centimeters in height. The life expectancy of this breed is 12 to 13 years, and they belong to Group 6 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups hounds, scent hounds and similar breeds.

Breed history in brief

The history of the Basset Hound begins in the Middle Ages in France, where French monks bred a breed dedicated to hunting small rabbits and hares. However, the breed was fully developed in Great Britain in the 19th century. In the 20th century it gained great popularity in the United States as a companion and show dog. In fact, since the mid-20th century, the breed has been featured in several advertising campaigns, films and series. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1885. Today, it maintains great popularity around the world, especially as a companion dog because of its friendly, loyal and relaxed personality.

Breed characteristics

The body shape of the Basset Hound is long and deep, with a broad, horizontal back. The hindquarters are muscular and prominent, although short. The forehead and sides of the eyes may show a small amount of wrinkling. Two of the most distinctive features of their physique are the large, dark eyes with a sad expression and the low set, long, inward curled ears. Any color is possible in the Basset Hound, although they are usually tricolor (white, black and tan) or bicolor (lemon yellow and white). The length of the coat is short, smooth and compact. As good scent hounds, Basset Hounds are noted for their keen sense of smell. On a personal level, they are friendly, extroverted and affectionate dogs with their family members. They are also very sociable and have a relaxed and calm character, not particularly energetic. Therefore, it is appropriate to control the amount of food, as they are less active and have a higher risk of gaining weight easily.

Common health problems

The breed has been linked to certain health problems, although with proper management and regular veterinary check-ups, the breed can remain healthy. The most common diseases or disorders are elbow and follicular dysplasia, glaucoma, cervical vertebral malformation or instability, intervertebral disc disease, patellar luxation, seborrhea, severe combined immunodeficiency, panosteitis and platelet disorder. In addition, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends screening for mucopolysaccharidosis I and thrombopathy.