Basset Hound
With its long ears and soulful look, the Basset Hound is a placid, affectionate dog with a remarkable nose.
History and origins
The Basset Hound was developed in 19th-century England from French bassets, to hunt hare and rabbit on foot using its exceptional nose.
Its short legs let hunters follow it without horses.
Temperament
Calm, gentle and very sociable, the Basset Hound gets on with everyone, children and dogs included. It can be stubborn and follow a scent without listening.
It has a deep voice and may howl when bored.
Health
Its long back, drooping eyelids and large ears expose it to disc herniation, eye problems (ectropion, glaucoma) and ear infections. Bloat and obesity are also risks.
Regular veterinary follow-up is essential.
This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.
Feeding
It is greedy and gains weight easily, which strains its back, so measure portions.
Two meals a day, with no exercise straight afterwards.
Exercise
Calm daily walks of about an hour, with chances to sniff, suit it.
Avoid jumping and repeated stair-climbing.
Calm indoors, it can live in an apartment, ideally with a lift to spare its back.
Grooming
Its short coat needs weekly brushing. Clean its long ears and facial folds often.
It drools a little.
