The Basset Hound is a breed of dog that was created from French bassets imported to England. Their name is derived from the French words ‘bas’ meaning low, and the suffix ‘et’, which translates to ‘rather low’.

Basset Hounds are short, heavy dogs with a deep chest and undocked tails. They have loose skin around their neck and faces which causes them to look ‘sad’, but in fact helps them trap scents while tracking. Their ears are extremely long and soft, and their length also aides the hunt when their noses are to the ground. They have a short, smooth coat that can come in a wide variety of colors. Acceptable conformation colors depend on the club standard and can vary. Most Bassets are usually black, tan, and white tricolors or Tan and White bicolors.


Bassets as a type of dog have existed in France for centuries and likely descended from a dwarfed Bloodhound. These dogs were bred because they were easier for a hunter on foot, rather than horseback, to follow them. The development of the Basset Hound specifically began in England in 1866 when Lord Galway received some Basset Normands from the Comte de Tournon. Sir Everett Millais added some Bloodhound back into the line, creating a heavier dog and the basis for today’s breed.

The Basset Hound is a devoted and gentle breed, highly loyal to their family. They get along well with children and other dogs. This breed can be difficult to train and housebreak. As with all hounds, they should only be let off leash in a safe and secure area as they will follow their noses, sometimes headless of your calls.
The lifespan of a Basset Hound is around 12 years. They are prone to bloat, ear and eye problems, epilepsy, glaucoma, luxating patella, hip and elbow dysplasia, and Von Willebrand disease. Basset Hounds can easily be overfed if you are not watching their intake. Extra weight can become too much for their short legs and spine due to their naturally heavy bodies.

This breed can adapt to an apartment provided they have a chance for exercise. As will all breeds they need a daily walk and love the opportunity to run in a safely enclosed area.

The short coat of a Basset Hound is easy to care for, brush occasionally to remove their constantly shedding hair.