Discovering the Wonderful World of Basset Hounds
- puppiestopawprints
- Jun 22
- 14 min read
Updated: Jul 6
The Lovable Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is one of the most recognisable dog breeds in the world. Famous for its long ears, soulful eyes, short legs, and exceptional sense of smell, the Basset Hound is a lovable breed that has captured dog lovers' hearts for generations. Originally developed as a hunting dog, the Basset Hound is now a popular family companion known for its affectionate nature, loyalty, and laid-back personality.
Whether you’re thinking about welcoming a Basset Hound puppy into your home or just want to learn more about this distinctive breed, this guide covers everything you need to know about Basset Hound care, temperament, grooming, exercise, and health.
A Peek into Basset Hound History
The Basset Hound's roots can be traced back to France, where low-slung scent hounds were selectively bred for tracking game over long distances. The word “Basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” which perfectly describes this breed's short stature. French hunters valued these dogs because their slower pace allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback. Their powerful noses made them particularly effective at tracking hares, rabbits, birds, and foxes through dense terrain.
Over time, the breed gained popularity throughout Europe and eventually arrived in Britain during the nineteenth century. British breeders refined the breed's appearance while preserving its outstanding scenting ability. The Basset Hound later became established in the United States, where it remains a beloved companion and show dog today.
What Makes the Basset Hound So Unique?
Few dog breeds possess such a distinctive appearance. The Basset Hound's long body, short legs, drooping ears, loose skin, and expressive eyes make it instantly recognisable. However, these features are not just for show. Their long ears help stir scent particles from the ground, while the loose skin around their faces helps trap odours, improving their tracking efficiency. The Basset Hound has an exceptionally strong sense of smell—one of the best among dog breeds, surpassed only by the Bloodhound.
Basset Hound Temperament and Personality
The Basset Hound is widely admired for its gentle, easygoing temperament. These dogs thrive on companionship and love being around their families.
Key Personality Traits
Friendly and affectionate
Loyal and devoted
Patient with children
Generally sociable with other pets
Calm and relaxed indoors
Intelligent but often stubborn
Strongly motivated by scents
While Basset Hounds are intelligent dogs, they are also independent thinkers. Training can require patience and consistency because they often prefer to follow their nose rather than instructions. Positive reinforcement methods work best, particularly when combined with treats, praise, and short, enjoyable training sessions.
Living with Children
Basset Hounds are excellent family dogs and are often very tolerant of children. Their calm nature makes them suitable companions for households with young family members. However, all interactions between children and dogs should be supervised. Children should learn to interact respectfully with dogs and understand the importance of giving them space when they are eating, sleeping, or resting. With proper supervision and socialisation, Basset Hounds can form strong and lasting bonds with children.
Living with Other Pets
Because Basset Hounds were traditionally bred to work in packs, they generally get along well with other dogs. Early socialisation helps them develop positive relationships with both dogs and household pets. When introducing a Basset Hound to smaller animals, careful supervision is recommended due to their strong hunting instincts. Gradual introductions help create a harmonious home environment.
The Ideal Home for a Basset Hound
The ideal Basset Hound owner understands the breed's unique combination of affection and stubbornness. These dogs do best in homes where they get lots of attention and regular companionship. Basset Hounds adapt well to various living situations, including:
Houses with gardens
Rural properties
Apartments with regular exercise
Family homes
Homes with retirees
Multi-pet households
Because they are highly social dogs, Basset Hounds should not be left alone for extended periods.
Exercise and Activity Requirements for a Basset Hound
Understanding how much exercise a Basset Hound needs is crucial for keeping this lovable scent hound healthy, fit, and mentally stimulated.
Recommended Exercise
Daily walks
Scent-based games
Interactive toys
Gentle outdoor exploration
Secure garden playtime
Adult Basset Hound Exercise
An adult Basset Hound should receive about 1 hour of exercise each day, ideally divided into 2 sessions. Splitting exercise into morning and evening walks helps prevent overexertion while keeping your dog active throughout the day. Because of their long backs and relatively short legs, Basset Hounds benefit most from low-impact exercise. Activities involving excessive jumping, running alongside bicycles, jogging on hard surfaces, or repeatedly climbing steep stairs should be avoided, as these can place unnecessary strain on their joints and spine.
When walking a Basset Hound, remember that they are scent-driven dogs with exceptional noses. Allowing your dog time to stop, sniff, and investigate interesting scents provides valuable mental enrichment. You can also make walks more engaging by introducing scent-based games, such as hiding treats along a safe walking route or encouraging your dog to follow a scent trail. However, a Basset Hound's powerful tracking instincts can sometimes override its recall. If they catch an interesting scent, they may wander off in pursuit. For this reason, Basset Hounds should be kept on a lead during walks unless they are exercising in a securely fenced and enclosed area.
Basset Hound Puppy Exercise
Basset Hound puppy exercise should also be divided into two short sessions per day. As puppies grow, their exercise requirements vary with age. Care must be taken not to over-exercise young dogs, as excessive physical activity can affect developing bones and joints.
A general guide for Basset Hound puppies is:
2 to 3 months old: 10 minutes of exercise per day, divided into two 5-minute walks.
4 to 5 months old: 20 minutes of exercise per day, divided into two 10-minute walks.
6 to 12 months old: 30 minutes of exercise per day, divided into two 15-minute walks.
In addition to short walks, puppies benefit from gentle play, socialisation opportunities, and supervised exploration in a safe environment.
Why Controlled Exercise Matters
Providing appropriate exercise for a Basset Hound puppy is essential for healthy development. Their growing joints, bones, and muscles need time to strengthen naturally, and excessive activity can increase the risk of future mobility issues. By following age-appropriate exercise guidelines and choosing low-impact activities, you can help your Basset Hound develop into a healthy, happy, and active adult companion.
Basset Hound Appearance
The Basset Hound is a medium-sized breed known for its low-to-the-ground build and sturdy, heavy-boned frame.
Breed Statistics
Size: Medium
Height: Up to 15 inches (38 cm)
Weight: 18–29 kg (40–65 lbs)
Coat Type: Short, dense, and smooth
Coat Colours:
Tri-colour
Lemon and white
Red and white
Black and white
Brown and white
Shedding Level: Moderate
Exercise Needs: Moderate
Training Difficulty: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
Royal Kennel Club(UK) Group: Hound
American Kennel Club (AKC) Group: Hound
Grooming Your Basset Hound
Regular grooming helps keep your Basset Hound comfortable, healthy, and looking its best.
Start Grooming Early
Introducing grooming routines during puppyhood helps your dog become comfortable with handling and routine care.
Regularly touch and inspect:
Paws
Ears
Teeth
Eyes
Nails
Reward calm behaviour with praise and treats to build positive associations.
Brushing Your Basset Hound
Although their coat is relatively low maintenance, regular brushing helps control shedding and distribute natural oils.
Best Grooming Tools
Bristle brush
Rubber grooming mitt
Hound glove
Brushing Frequency
Brush your Basset Hound two to three times per week. Benefits include:
Reduced shedding
Healthier skin
Improved coat condition
Early detection of skin problems
Stronger owner-dog bond
Bathing Your Basset Hound
Basset Hounds have naturally oily coats that help provide weather protection.
Bathing Frequency
Most Basset Hounds only require bathing every six to eight weeks, or when particularly dirty.
Recommended Products
Use:
Dog-specific shampoo
Gentle dog conditioner
Sensitive skin formulas, when necessary
Avoid using shampoos made for people—they can throw off your dog's natural pH balance.
Ear Cleaning
Long ears are one of the Basset Hound's most iconic features, but they also require regular attention.
How Often to Clean
Inspect ears weekly and clean as needed.
What to Use
Veterinary-approved ear cleaner
Cotton wool pads
Never put cotton buds or any other objects into your dog’s ear canal. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
Redness
Strong odours
Excessive wax
Head shaking
Scratching
Ear Wash for itchy, gunky, waxy and smelly ears
Eye and Facial Wrinkle Care
The loose skin around the face can trap moisture and debris.
Cleaning Routine
Wipe facial folds with a damp cloth.
Remove dirt and debris gently.
Thoroughly dry all skin folds afterwards.
Keeping wrinkles clean and dry helps reduce the risk of irritation and skin infections.
Tear Stain Remover. Gently cleans eye residue and helps prevent stains
Paw and Nail Care
Inspect paws regularly for:
Cuts
Splinters
Cracked pads
Foreign objects
Nail Trimming
Most Basset Hounds require nail trimming every three to four weeks. If you hear nails clicking on hard floors, they are likely due for a trim. Always trim small bits of nail at a time. Never cut past the “quick,” as this will cause bleeding and pain for your dog. If you nick the “quick” by accident, apply Styptic powder to stop the bleeding.
Dental Care
Ensuring your Basset Hound's dental health is a significant part of their overall care.
How Often Should You Brush?
Ideally, brush your dog’s teeth daily. At a minimum, aim for three times per week.
Recommended Dental Products
Dog toothbrush
Finger toothbrush
Veterinary-approved dog toothpaste
Never use human toothpaste, as many ingredients can be harmful to dogs. Regular dental care helps reduce:
Plaque buildup
Tartar accumulation
Gum disease
Bad breath
Dental chews may also help support oral hygiene between brushing sessions.
Dental Stick Bundle For Dogs
Meaty Treats Taster Pack
Healthy Herbal Dental Sticks to support clean teeth, fresh breath, and gums
Basset Hound Health and Genetic Screening
When searching for a Basset Hound puppy, choosing a reputable breeder should be one of your highest priorities. Responsible breeders invest in health testing and genetic screening to help reduce the risk of passing on inherited diseases to future generations. Before purchasing a puppy, ask to see health certificates and veterinary records for both parents. These records can offer important insights into the health of the breeding dogs and help you make a well-informed choice.
Although not every Basset Hound will develop health problems, understanding the breed's potential medical concerns allows owners to provide better preventative care and seek early treatment when necessary. Overall, the Basset Hound is considered a relatively healthy dog breed, but several hereditary and breed-specific conditions deserve attention.
Recommended Health Screenings
A responsible breeder should perform appropriate health tests that may include:
Hip Dysplasia screening
Elbow Dysplasia screening
Eye examinations
Thyroid function testing
Genetic testing is available.
General veterinary health assessments
These screenings help identify potential hereditary conditions and contribute to responsible breeding practices.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common orthopaedic issue seen in many dog breeds, including Basset Hounds. The condition occurs when the hip joint develops an abnormality, leading to instability, discomfort, and progressive joint damage over time.
Symptoms may include:
Stiffness
Difficulty standing
Reluctance to exercise
Limping
Reduced mobility
Maintaining a healthy body weight and providing appropriate exercise can help reduce stress on affected joints.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia is another developmental joint disorder that may affect Basset Hounds. This condition occurs when the elbow joint does not develop normally, leading to pain, inflammation, and arthritis. Common signs include:
Front-leg lameness
Stiffness after resting
Reduced activity levels
Difficulty rising
Early diagnosis can help improve long-term mobility and comfort.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Because of their long backs and short legs, Basset Hounds can be susceptible to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). IVDD occurs when spinal discs become damaged or displaced, placing pressure on the spinal cord.
Symptoms of IVDD
Back pain
Reluctance to move
Difficulty walking
Weakness in the limbs
Loss of coordination
Paralysis in severe cases
Immediate veterinary assessment is essential if these symptoms develop.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation happens when the kneecap moves out of its normal alignment. While more commonly associated with smaller breeds, it can also affect some Basset Hounds.
Signs may include:
Skipping or hopping while walking
Intermittent lameness
Difficulty exercising
Abnormal gait
Treatment can range from non-surgical care to surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Preventing Joint and Back Problems
During puppyhood, it is important to protect developing joints and bones. To reduce unnecessary strain:
Limit excessive stair climbing.
Discourage jumping on and off furniture.
Use ramps where possible.
Avoid over-exercising young puppies.
These precautions can help support healthy growth and development.
Panosteitis (Growing Pains)
Panosteitis, sometimes called “growing pains” or “wandering lameness,” is occasionally seen in young Basset Hounds during their growth phase. The condition causes temporary inflammation within the long bones, resulting in shifting leg pain that may move from one limb to another.
Symptoms include:
Sudden limping
Reluctance to exercise
Pain when limbs are touched
Intermittent lameness
Fortunately, Panosteitis is usually self-limiting and often resolves as the dog reaches maturity.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) – Bloat
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat, is a serious medical emergency that can affect a Basset Hound. GDV occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas and then twists, restricting blood flow and preventing the stomach's contents from escaping.
Symptoms of Bloat
Seek emergency veterinary treatment immediately if you notice:
A swollen or distended abdomen
Excessive drooling
Unproductive retching
Restlessness
Rapid breathing
Signs of pain or distress
Weakness or collapse
Reducing the Risk of GDV
Although GDV isn't always avoidable, the steps below can help lower the risk:
Offer two to three smaller meals each day.
Avoid strenuous exercise within 1 hour before or after meals.
Encourage slower eating if your dog gulps food.
Maintain a healthy body weight.
Discuss preventative gastropexy surgery with your veterinarian if appropriate.
Glaucoma
Basset Hounds may be prone to glaucoma, a serious eye disorder that develops when pressure builds up inside the eye. Without treatment, glaucoma may result in lasting vision loss.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Watch for:
Red eyes
Excessive tearing
Squinting
Cloudy eyes
Eye pain
Vision difficulties
Immediate veterinary attention is essential if Glaucoma is suspected.
Eyelid and Eyelash Disorders
Due to their loose facial skin and drooping eyes, Basset Hounds may be prone to eye conditions such as:
Entropion
This is when the eyelid folds inward, so the eyelashes rub against the eye and irritate it.
Ectropion
A condition where the eyelid droops outward, exposing delicate eye tissue.
Both conditions can cause:
Eye irritation
Excessive tearing
Redness
Recurrent infections
Regular eye examinations can help identify these issues early.
Cherry Eye
This happens when the tear gland in a dog's third eyelid slips out of place and bulges outward. It causes a red, puffy bulge in the inner corner of the eye that can look like a cherry. Although not usually painful, untreated Cherry Eye can increase the risk of:
Dry eye
Irritation
Secondary infections
Veterinary treatment may involve medication or surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition.
Ear Infections
A Basset Hound's long, heavy ears create a warm environment where moisture and debris can accumulate. Without regular care, this can increase the risk of ear infections.
Signs of Ear Infections
Head shaking
Scratching at the ears
Redness
Unpleasant odour
Excessive wax buildup
Weekly ear inspections and routine cleaning can help maintain ear health.
Obesity
Obesity is one of the most common preventable health problems affecting Basset Hounds. Their love of food, combined with a relatively low level of physical activity, can easily lead to weight gain.
Excess body weight places additional strain on:
Joints
Spine
Heart
Respiratory system
Allergies in Basset Hounds
Like many dog breeds, Basset Hounds can develop allergies that affect their skin, ears, and digestive system.
Common allergy triggers include:
Food ingredients
Environmental allergens
Dust mites
Grass pollens
Household cleaning products
Certain grooming products
Common Allergy Symptoms
Itchy skin
Recurrent ear infections
Excessive licking
Paw chewing
Red skin
Hair loss
A veterinarian can help identify triggers and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Training Your Basset Hound
Training a Basset Hound can be both rewarding and challenging. While this intelligent scent hound is eager to please its family, it is also known for its independent nature and occasional stubbornness. Understanding how your Basset Hound thinks is the key to successful training. Because Basset Hounds are highly sensitive dogs, they respond best to positive reinforcement training methods. Harsh corrections, punishment-based techniques, or raised voices can damage trust and make training more difficult. Instead, focus on rewarding good behaviour with treats, praise, toys, and affection.
Best Training Methods for a Basset Hound
To achieve the best results when training a Basset Hound, keep sessions:
Short and engaging
Consistent and structured
Reward-based
Fun and interactive
Free from distractions
Basset Hounds possess one of the strongest scenting abilities in the canine world. If they detect an interesting scent, their attention can quickly shift away from the training session. For this reason, training in a quiet environment before gradually introducing distractions is highly beneficial.
Essential Commands to Teach
Every Basset Hound puppy should learn basic obedience commands, including:
Sit
Stay
Come
Down
Leave It
Heel
Wait
Teaching a reliable recall command is particularly important because Basset Hounds have a natural tendency to follow scent trails without considering potential dangers.
House Training a Basset Hound Puppy
Consistency is crucial when house training a Basset Hound puppy. Establish a regular routine by taking your puppy outside:
First thing in the morning
After meals
After naps
After play sessions
Before bedtime
Reward successful toilet breaks immediately with praise and treats. Positive reinforcement helps your puppy understand exactly what behaviour is expected. Patience is essential, as some Basset Hounds may take slightly longer to fully master house training compared to other breeds.
Why Early Training Matters
Early training for your puppy lays the foundation for a well-behaved adult dog. Starting training early helps prevent unwanted habits from developing and encourages good manners throughout your dog's life. Regular mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, scent games, and obedience exercises can help prevent boredom and reduce undesirable behaviours such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.
Socialising Your Basset Hound
Proper socialisation is one of the most important aspects of raising a confident and well-adjusted Basset Hound. Socialisation involves exposing your puppy to a wide variety of people, animals, environments, sounds, and experiences in a positive and controlled manner.
Why Socialisation Is Important
Early socialisation helps your Basset Hound develop:
Confidence
Good manners
Adaptability
Reduced fearfulness
Positive interactions with other dogs
Better behaviour in public settings
Puppies that receive adequate socialisation are more likely to grow into calm, friendly, and relaxed adult dogs.
Socialisation Ideas for Basset Hound Puppies
Introduce your puppy to:
Adults and children
Other vaccinated dogs
Different surfaces and textures
Household noises
Car journeys
Grooming routines
Veterinary visits
Busy streets and parks
Always ensure experiences remain positive. Try to avoid overwhelming your puppy with too much stimulation at once.
Basset Hound Food and Nutrition: Why It's Important
For a Basset Hound, a well-balanced, nutritious diet is essential, helping your dog maintain a healthy weight, support joint health, and support overall wellbeing. Because Basset Hounds are prone to obesity, careful attention to portion control and calorie intake is essential throughout their lives.
Choosing the Best Dog Food for a Basset Hound
A high-quality dog food should contain:
Real meat protein sources
Healthy fats
Essential vitamins and minerals
Digestible carbohydrates
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
Appropriate fibre levels
Premium-quality dog foods often provide superior nutrition, meaning your dog may require smaller portions.
How Much Should a Basset Hound Eat?
An adult Basset Hound usually needs about 1.5–2.5 cups of quality dry kibble per day, split into two meals. However, several factors can affect your dog’s dietary requirements, including:
Age
Weight
Activity level
Metabolism
Overall health
Whether they are neutered or entire
Highly active Basset Hounds generally require more calories than less active dogs.
Preventing Obesity in Basset Hounds
One of the most common health concerns in the breed is excessive weight gain. Basset Hounds love food and can easily overeat if given the opportunity. Free-feeding is generally not recommended because it can lead to obesity and related health problems.
Weight Management Tips
Measure meals accurately.
Feed twice daily.
Limit treats and table scraps.
Provide regular daily exercise.
Monitor body condition regularly.
Schedule routine veterinary check-ups.
The Body Condition Check
A simple way to assess whether your Basset Hound is maintaining a healthy weight is by using both visual and physical checks.
The Visual Check
When viewed from above, your dog should have a noticeable waistline behind the ribs.
The Hands-On Check
You should be able to feel your Basset Hound's ribs with gentle pressure, but they should not be prominently visible. If the ribs are difficult to feel or your dog lacks a visible waist, it may be time to review portion sizes and exercise levels.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can be dangerous or toxic to dogs and should never be fed to your Basset Hound. These include:
Chocolate
Grapes and raisins
Onions
Garlic
Alcohol
Caffeine
Xylitol sweeteners
Macadamia nuts
If you think your dog may have ingested something poisonous, call your vet right away.
Our Final Thoughts
The Basset Hound is a loving, loyal, and fun-loving dog breed, known for its powerful sense of smell and calm, gentle temperament. With their unmistakable long ears, low-slung build, and affectionate nature, Basset Hounds remain one of the most popular scent hounds and a wonderful choice for many families. Caring for a Basset Hound starts with the basics: consistent training, early socialisation, and plenty of daily companionship.
When you combine positive, reward-based training with patience and routine, you'll help your Basset Hound grow into a well-mannered family companion. To support long-term Basset Hound health, focus on a balanced diet, healthy weight management, regular grooming, and ongoing veterinary check-ups. Responsible breeding and early attention to potential issues can also make a big difference. By learning about common Basset Hound health problems and taking preventative steps, you can give your dog a healthy, comfortable life—and enjoy many happy years together.
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