Basset Hound

History of the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is one of the best-known dog breeds, originally originating from France and Belgium. The breed was developed in the Middle Ages and used to hunt small game, such as rabbits and hares. The name "Basset" means "low" in French, referring to their short legs. The Basset Hound later became popular in England, where it was further developed into the breed we know today. Their excellent sense of smell makes them one of the best scent-detecting dogs.

No other names for this breed are known. The Basset Hound is popular worldwide, but finding a good breeder can sometimes take time due to their unique characteristics and appearance.

Character and Temperament

The Basset Hound is a gentle, friendly, and calm dog. They are known for their patience and loving nature, making them wonderful family dogs. While generally quiet, they also have a playful side and enjoy companionship. They can be somewhat stubborn, which can make training a challenge, but with patience and positive reinforcement, they learn well.

Physical Characteristics

The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog with a long body and short, sturdy legs. They have a characteristic loose skin around their face, which contributes to their unique expression. Their coat is short and smooth and comes in various colors, such as tricolor (black, white, and brown) and bicolor (white and brown). An adult Basset Hound has a shoulder height of approximately 33-38 cm and weighs an average of 20-29 kg.

Collar/harness sizes:

Neck circumference: 40-50 cm
Chest circumference: 60-75 cm

Care

The Basset Hound's short coat is easy to maintain. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps their skin healthy. Due to their long ears, they are susceptible to ear infections, so regular checks and cleaning are essential. Also, ensure their nails are kept at the correct length and brush their teeth regularly.

Movement and Activity

Although the Basset Hound is a calm dog, they need daily exercise to stay healthy and fit. Long walks and sniffing activities are ideal, as they enjoy following scents. Due to their strong hunting instinct, it's important to keep them on a leash in open areas.

Health

The Basset Hound is generally a healthy breed, but can be prone to back problems, ear infections, and obesity. It's important to monitor their weight and provide them with a balanced diet. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health problems. The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is 10-12 years.

Nutrition

A Basset Hound needs a balanced diet appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. They require approximately 250-350 grams of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals. Be careful not to overfeed them, as they are prone to weight gain.

Training and Socialization

The Basset Hound is intelligent but can also be stubborn, which can make training challenging. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key. Early socialization helps develop a well-adjusted and obedient pet. They excel at activities like tracking, thanks to their excellent sense of smell.

Suitability for Owners

The Basset Hound is a wonderful choice for families and individuals who want a calm, affectionate dog. They need owners who can dedicate time to their daily exercise and grooming. Due to their social nature, they thrive best in an environment where they have plenty of companionship.

Share your Basset Hound!

Do you own a Basset Hound? We're curious to hear about your experiences and stories! Send a photo of your Basset Hound to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to participate in a video for FidelloTV and earn €20 shop credit? Make an appointment via klantenservice@fidello.nl and help us share more about this special breed on YouTube!