Basset Hound

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Dog Breed Group

Hound Dogs 

Origin of Breed

France as a hunting dog 

Life Expectancy

8 to 12 years 

Color

Generally black, tan and white, 

Coat

Smooth, close and hard with sufficient density for protection. The skin is loose and elastic 

Exercise Needs

three periods totalling about 1 hour per day. Playtime is also required 

Temperament

Friendly disposition. May be stubborn in accepting formal training as most hounds have an independent character, but a steady, f 

Good with Children

Gets along well with other animals and children. Friendly with strangers. 

Grooming Needs

Weekly brushing. Pay special attention to ear cleaning 

Average Size - Male (in)

14 

Average Size - Female (in)

14 

Average Weight - Male (lbs)

40 - 60 

Average Weight - Female (lbs)

40 - 60 

Health Issues

If used as a house dog, overfeeding can be a problem.v

Living Conditions

Suitable for city living but must be taught not to howl. 

Breed Description

The Basset Hound originated in France, possibly as early as 1585. After the French Revolution, the breed again rose in popularity among the peasants. Before the Revolution, hunting hounds were used only by the nobility. The peasants could not hunt from horseback, only on foot, so they required a shorter-legged, slower hound. Originally used to trail hares, rabbits, and deer, it has also been used in hunting birds, foxes, and other game. It is characterized as a slow, deliberate hunter, with a deep voice and a "nose" second in keenness only to that of the bloodhound. The Basset Hound was also ideal for hunting in heavy cover due to its shape and size. The breed has several varieties, one of the most popular being the sad-eyed Le Couteulx.