Bassets are famous for a large, domed head that features extremely long, velvety ears, mournful eyes, and a wrinkled brow, which give the breed a distinctive appearance. Bred originally in France for the purpose of hunting hare, the Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog in the hound family. Today, they remain one of the most easily recognizable and most versatile of all dog breeds.
Gentle and sociable in nature, the Basset Hound is loyal to its family and good with other dogs and pets in general. They are people-oriented and love attention, but their independent streak can sometimes make them stubborn. Bassets are relatively easy to care for, but their short legs and long backs make them susceptible to back problems so it’s important to keep an eye on their activity level and weight.
The Basset Hound is an old breed which is a direct descendent of the Bloodhound and has a nose that is almost as outstanding. Some sources suggest the Basset may have been created by monks in the Middle Ages, although the exact origins of the breed are unclear. The name “Basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” referring to the dog’s short stature.
The Basset Hound was originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and is still used for this purpose in some parts of the United States. They have an excellent sense of smell and can track a scent for miles. Bassets are also popular as companion dogs because of their laid-back personality and love of cuddling.
While they are generally healthy dogs, Basset Hounds are susceptible to certain health problems such as ear infections, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease, and obesity. It’s important to work with your veterinarian to ensure your Basset Hound stays healthy throughout his or her lifetime.
If you’re looking for a lovable, low-maintenance companion dog, the Basset Hound may be the perfect breed for you!
