The sad eyes and the long ears endear a Basset puppy to people everywhere. Used primarily to hunt rabbits his low to the ground body along with the hound nose and ears make for a good dog for those without a lot of room. Less than 14 inches in size this is a short legged, heavy bone, long bodied dog that is easy going in attitude.

These are extremely devoted dogs with loose, elastic skin that should be all weather useful. The color may vary somewhat with the typical hound colors allowed. As a trailing or tracking dog the Basset is second only to the bloodhound with a nose that is incredibly accurate. It is believed that Lafayette gave some Bassets to George Washington after the American Revolution.

Typical of many hounds, the Basset Hound is a friendly breed that loves people. Although they are short they can weight 55 up to even 75 pounds so learning proper manners inside and out is important. They are normally gentle dogs and, again typical of hounds, are social dogs that love their pack.

The traits that endear him to many make him an annoyance if unchecked. They have the hound voice which many love until they are alone and begin howling their displeasure to everyone within earshot. They MUST be confined as when that nose gets twitching and they find something to follow they can get hit by cars as well as look around 15 minutes later and have no idea how to get home.

The flews that allow the breed to funnel that scent to the nose can also be the source of drooling. This is a leading cause for the breed given up or abandoned - and is solely a human's fault for not researching to be aware that is a Basset trait. If you are put off by doggie drool on the floor as you're fixing dinner or feeding him his then please do yourself and the dog a favor and get another breed. There are some that drool less than others but this is not a job for meticulous housekeepers.

This is not a breed that is expensive to feed and indeed should be fed much less than many think. Do not let a Basset beg you into overfeeding. Overeating produces health problems for growing puppies as well as for adult dogs. Keep it basic and make sure he's in proper condition - you should feel but not see ribs and there should be a slight rise from a profile behind the ribs. Too fat or too thin isn't good - change the amounts until he's maintained at a proper level.

The Basset hound by selection has a short coat that doesn't take extensive grooming save for a weekly brushing to remove loose hair. Watch the ears and teeth as both will need regular care.

The Basset is generally a healthy breed but does have some serious issues that should be watched for and tested for in breeding stock. Von Willebrand's disease is a clotting disorder. Like all deep chested breeds bloat is a serious concern that is life threatening when it happens. Some are affected by glaucoma.

Many veterinarians and owners are unfamiliar with panosteitis that affects young and growing Bassets. This is a disease that can cause sudden lameness and is sometimes diagnosed as elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia or other serious disorders. Unethical vets may require surgery but this is something that the Basset will outgrow! X-rays may show 'elbow incongruity' - a poor fit in the elbow. This is normal for the breed and is not the source of lameness. This is NOT something that requires surgery! With panosteitis the dog normally will outgrow it. Some recommend aspirin or pain killers but this is a case of removing the pain can cause further aggravation of the injury.

Many Bassets may have allergies, ear infections, infections in the feet and injury or soreness from too much exercise in growing puppies. It's important to note swimming is difficult for Bassets due to their short legs. Never leave a Basset unsupervised near a pond, pool or other water. Thrombopathia, eyelid issues, back issues and obesity can also be problems for the breed. The joints and spine cannot carry extra weight of an obese dog - don't create problems for your Basset! Epilepsy and auto immune disorders can also be an issue.

Although there are certainly challenges involved in keeping and raising happy Bassets this is a breed that can be a hero dog because of the same things that can get him in trouble! This was illustrated when a seven year old Basset dragged his elderly owner to an area in the grass at their mobile park. Sinus issues prevented the owner from smelling but she heard and saw the damaged gas line and alerted neighbors. As word spread the gas fumes grew and emergency help was summoned. The Basset is credited with saving the mobile home park and, although "Buddy" had a heart condition his big heart and keen nose saved property and lives and allowed the quick repair of the line by professionals.

Basset Hounds may complete in conformation classes, field trials, hunt tests, obedience, tracking and - yes! - agility.

Tracking tests use the Basset hound's nose and allows for a special bond of trust to form between the working dog and the handler. This is a sport for all kinds of weather and terrain - ideal for those who like being outside and seeing what their dog loves to do naturally. Not only is this a chance to compete but with particular training as a search and rescue dog the basset can be a hero!

Some famous Basset hounds include the comic strip Fred Basset, "Lafayette" in Disney's The Aristocats, Cledus in "Smokey and the Bandit" and in a host of other movies including American Werewolf in Paris and Spider-Man 2. Of course one of the most identified is as the hallmark of Hush Puppy brand shoes and as a companion to the Maytag man.

Be it in advertising, film, competition, cartoons, pets or as show or competitive dogs the Basset Hound is a devoted companion and partner for the right people willing to put up with their quirks.

Large measures of discipline and praise, resisting the urge to feed too many treats and being keenly aware of the health issues that can arise means you will be happier and your Basset hound will be in heaven. Life is good with food, an accepting owner and someone to adore! It's even better when activities are shared and the respect for what the breed truly can be is appreciated by letting the dog use his inborn talents.

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Basset Hound

Although we cannot pinpoint the exact time period in history when the Bassett Hound was created, historians have noted that the first mention of this dog was found within 16th-century text that made reference to “short-legged dogs used for badger hunting”.

We also know that similar dwarf breeds that had short legs were used in ancient times, but it is quite difficult to zero in on exactly when and why the Bassett Hound was purposely bred.

The word “Basset” is French and is derived from bas, meaning “dwarf”. We know that short-legged dogs were used for slower-paced hunting during the French Revolution. History of this dog breed shows a much clearer picture after the revolution.

It was at this time that Basset Hounds became more and more common as a hunting companion. Hunters needed a dog that was skilled enough with its scent ability to hunt prey, yet was slow enough so that they could be followed and hunted with guns. This is where having its small dwarf-like body became the perfect hunting recipe for these needs.

Eventually, four different versions of the short-legged kind were created.  One of these versions, the Basset Artesien Normand, is what closely resembles today's Basset Hound. During the late 1800s and then again around 1930, crosses were made with Bloodhounds to bring up their size. The first Bassett Hounds were brought to England and the United States during the late 1800s.

Personality

You will find that the Bassett Hound is one of the most laid-back and relaxed dog breeds alive. They are extremely amiable with virtually every other animal and human they come into contact with. The Basset is extremely suited for children and is well behaved even in the company of strange dogs. Although high in affection levels and friendliness, do not underestimate its watchdog abilities. These Hounds made excellent watchdogs.

Taking Care Of Your Basset Hound

Basset Hounds need a bit of daily exercise, but not too much.  One or two daily walks on the leash around your neighborhood will suffice.  However, like any animal, it is always beneficial for extra playtime and games when possible. Bassett Hounds should always sleep indoors with the family at night, but during the day having access to an enclosed yard is recommended. Grooming is minimal, with standard brushing and bath times during the week, but make note that these dogs do tend to drool often.

Health Information

Basset Hounds have a lifespan of between 9 and 12 years, sometimes longer, depending on good health. Major health concerns are ectropion, vWD, CHD, gastric torsion, OCD, thrombopathy, otitis externa, and elbow dysplasia.  Minor issues include patellar luxation. Obesity is often a problem with these dogs when owners overfeed them, so put caution on how much food you provide.

History

Some think that the Basset Hound was bred by monks at the Abbey of Saint Hurbert in France. The monks developed this breed by mating different types of French hounds. They wanted a canine that was easy to follow while walking. So, they  produced a dog that was set closer to the ground. The name Basset is derived from the French word bas and means low set or dwarf.

In the 18th century Basset Hounds were used for hunting in different parts of France by the aristocracy and other people. Lafayette gave George Washington two Basset hounds. During the 19th century these canines were sent to the United Sates and England.

General Looks

It has short legs and a heavy skeletal structure. It moves with purpose and is well balanced. It has long ears that flop.

Is This Your Breed?

The Basset needs scant grooming. It pursues scents when outside as a matter of course. It is a great companion because it is sweet and easy going. It needs some daily exercise.

Coat

The coat adheres close to the body and is short. It is thick enough for different kinds of weather.

Color

The coat can be bi-colored or tri-colored. Generally, they are white and spotted with tan or black and are marked with white. The tri-colored ones will have black and white fur, along with red, brown or tan.

Locomotion

It moves smoothly and powerfully. Its nose will be close to the ground.

Personality

They are stubborn, but will do well in obedience training, when the trainer is patient and the training is consistent. The Basset Hound likes a lot of praise and treats while being trained. They are affectionate and friendly.

Basset Hound video:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NBFRNEztSU

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