Suggested tests: Eye, Blood
Average Size of Female: Height: less than 14 inches, Weight: 40 – 60 pounds
Minor concerns: Foot cysts and infection
Occasionally seen: Patellar luxation
Major concerns: Foreleg lameness, OCD, entropion, ectropion, otitis externa, intervertebral disc disease, glaucoma, vWD, CTP, gastric torsion
Average Size of Male: Height: less than 14 inches, Weight: 40 – 60 pounds
LifeSpan: 8 – 12 years
Note: Obesity is a problem in the breed and it contributes to intervertebral disk disease.
Brief History on Basset Hound Origin
The Friars of the French Abbey of St. Hubert, were the ones said to have been responsible for the development of the Basset Hound breed. They had created a low set, slow-moving dog that one could follow easily while on foot. The French were said to have used a similar short-legged, slow moving hunting dog, but unfortunately those dogs pretty much became extinct during the French Revolution. However, after the revolution was over, the history of the Basset Hound became much more documented and known among the people. It was at this time that many commoners began to hunt with firearms, and they needed to have a dog that they could easily follow on foot. The dog on the other hand, needed to have a strong scenting ability in order to track the animals they were hunting. These dogs were able to trail many different types of mammals, but they were specifically skilled at pursuing rabbits and hares. Experts believe that in the late 1800s, and once again in 1930, that the dog was crossed with a Bloodhound in order to increase its overall body size.
Basset Hound Breed Appearance
The front legs of this breed are short and sturdy. The supportive, wide paws are very heavy and feature thick & protective pads. A full, well-rounded hindquarters are parallel with the hind feet pointing straight ahead. The shoulders of the basset hound are at ease. The neck often times has lots of loose skin, while the large and rounded head features a heavy muzzle with floppy lips, a darkly pigmented nose and large wide-open nostrils. The large teeth meet in either a scissors or an even bite, accompanied by a long tongue to match their long ears. The brown drooped eyes offer a questioning, sad expression, and the very lengthy ears are velvet-like in texture. The tail of the basset hound should not be docked, and it is carried merrily in true hound fashion while walking or running around. The gait of this breed is best described as a regal trot. Because it is a scenting dog, often times the nose is held close to the ground. The smooth, hard coat is short and dense to protect the dog in all kinds of weather conditions. The coat comes true hound colors, such as white, black, tan and brown.
Basset Hound Breed Temperament
All around a great natured & well mannered dog, the Basset Hound is very tolerant and friendly towards other dogs, non-canine pets, and children! This breed is generally quite calm indoors, but regular exercise is required to help keep them from gaining unhealthy amounts of weight. The basset hound loves to investigate, sniff, and trail at a slow pace. Because of its tendency and skill to track, it may follow a random trail and become lost in some cases, so be sure your yard is secure and safe. This breed can be stubborn at times, and it’s powerful bark may be too much for some. Gentle, consistent, positive training is best for this type of breed, as the basset hound may not be as intelligent as other breeds out there. Therefore, housebreaking may be difficult. It will probably require extra patience and care.
Basset Hound Breed Maintenance
Their short and firm coat requires very minimal grooming, such as a regular brushing with a firm bristle brush. Although you should be sure to wipe down their face on a regular basis with a moist towelette or doggy wet naps. Most importantly, inside the wrinkles and crevices around their eyes, ears and mouth. These wrinkles and more hidden areas, harbor bacteria and may cause skin issues to rise if they are not properly and routinely cleaned. Bathing should only be done when necessary, while wrinkle care should be performed often. Be sure to trim the toenails regularly from becoming uncomfortably long. This breed is considered to be a constant shedder. While the basset hound can do well in both houses and apartments, it is important that they are provided with daily exercise otherwise they run the risk of becoming overweight and putting pressure on their joints and heart. This breed is not very active when inside, but outside it will run and play for hours if encouraged. Discourage this dog from jumping, as it can cause stress and strain on their front legs.
via Whisker Therapy