BHound

Hound

Basset Hound

“Low to the ground. Close to your heart.”

A low-slung, long-eared scent hound with a calm soul and a stubborn streak.

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Size

Medium

Weight

40–65 lb

Lifespan

12–13 years

Energy

Low

Grooming

Low

At a Glance

Quick Stats

Group

Hound

Size

Medium

Height (M/F)

12–15 in / 11–14 in

Weight (M/F)

40–65 lb / 40–60 lb

Lifespan

12–13 years

Exercise Needs

Moderate

EnergyLow

TrainabilityIntermediate

GroomingLow

SheddingModerate

ExperienceBeginner

The Breed

Overview

Bred to hunt small game at a pace a hunter could follow on foot, the Basset Hound combined a powerful nose with short legs and a low build. That deliberate, scent-driven nature still defines the breed.

Origin

France / England

Original Purpose

Hunting small game by scent

Temperament

Calm, stubborn, mild-mannered, devoted

Best Known For

A low-slung, long-eared scent hound with a calm soul and a stubborn streak.

Character

Temperament

Bassets are typically calm, mild-mannered, and stubborn. They are sweet and devoted with family and famously single-minded on a scent. Their pace is slow and deliberate.

Affection & Family

Typically excellent — sweet and devoted with the household.

Independence

Calm, stubborn, mild-mannered, devoted

Social Behavior

Generally good with other dogs — pack-oriented.

Protective Instincts

Calm, stubborn, mild-mannered, devoted

With Children

Usually very good with children.

With Other Dogs

Generally good with other dogs — pack-oriented.

Movement

Energy & Exercise

Needs daily walks — moderate but consistent. They will follow a scent, so keep them leashed or fenced.

Recommended Activities

Scent workTrackingLong walksTrail walksObedienceHiking

Partnership

Training

Smart but stubborn and scent-distracted; need patient, food-motivated training. Recall is unreliable on a trail.

Trainability

Intermediate

Experience Level

Beginner

Coat Care

Grooming

Short coat, low maintenance, but long ears need regular cleaning. They drool and shed.

Grooming Needs

Low

Shedding

Moderate

Wellness

Health

Watch for ear infections, back issues, and obesity. This guide is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Every dog is an individual. This guide is general and educational — not a diagnosis or guarantee. Always consult a veterinarian for breed-specific or personal health concerns.

Heritage