Understanding the Basset Persona

Basset Personality & Physical

Traits of the Basset Hound

Calm, good-natured and affectionate.

Gets along well with people and other dogs and pets. Good with children. Loves to be a lap dog. Not a good guard dog.

Sensitive and stubborn nature.

The Basset Hound takes punishment and reprimands to heart. Can be stubborn and conveniently “hard of hearing.”

Pack mentality.

A Basset may not do well left alone for long periods. For working owners, the company of another dog is the next best thing to having you there.

A scent hound.

The Basset was bred to trail game. His keen nose leads him into dangerous situations such as the path of a speeding car or unfenced swimming pool. The Basset is safe in a secure, enclosed area.

A Relatively low activity level. Prone to obesity.

Healthy trim Bassets have good energy levels, but they are also content to snooze away the afternoon in a patch of warm sun. Although this laid back nature makes them desirable house pets, their weight must be kept in check. A daily walk with your Basset on a leash is recommended.

A large, hefty dog, possessing more bone for its size than any other breed of dog.

Although Bassets are low to the ground, they are not small dogs, with most ranging from 50 to 65 pounds. The average person will have a difficult time lifting an adult Basset Hound.

A smooth-coated dog.

A wash-and-wear dog who may be bathed as frequently as needed.

Growing puppies have special needs.

Until they are a year old, Basset puppies should not go up and down long flights of stairs or be allowed to jump on and off elevated objects such as couches, beds or porches. The joints of this heavy-boned breed are still forming and excess stress or strain may cause permanent injury.

Short legs may mean a needed boost!

Many bassets require assistance getting into a car. The low-stationed Basset does not excel at jumping.

Long ears and droopy eyes need cleaning. Nails need trimming.

The long ears of a Basset do not allow good circulation of air and are prone to infection. Owners should clean their dog’s ears once a week. The basset’s droopy eyes should also be kept clean of debris and nails trimmed once or twice monthly.

Some Bassets drool.

Bassets with especially deep muzzles and loose hanging flews may drool, especially at the sight of food.