Hound Group
Basset Hound
Champion Pedigree
Easygoing
Nose-Driven
Scent Hound
Developed in France to track rabbit and hare at a pace hunters on foot could keep up with, the Basset Hound is built low to the ground with an extraordinary sense of smell — second among dogs only to the Bloodhound. Beneath the droopy ears is a calm, easygoing companion with a stubborn streak.
Lifespan
12–13 years.
Did You Know?
A Basset Hound’s long, low-hanging ears are believed to help sweep scent up toward its nose while tracking.
Breed Traits
Size
~14 in. tall (breed standard caps height), 40–65 lbs.
Energy Level
Low to moderate — enjoys walks but is not a high-endurance breed.
Coat & Grooming
Short, smooth coat; sheds moderately, easy to groom.
Good With Families
Gentle and patient, making it a favorite family and child-friendly breed.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Basset
Origin
France, developed from Bloodhound stock in the 16th century.
Typical Litter Size
4 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Calm, friendly, and stubborn — food-motivated training works best, and its nose can easily override obedience mid-walk.
Coat Colors
Tricolor (black, white, tan), or bicolor (lemon and white, red and white).
Working Roles
Historically a rabbit- and hare-tracking scent hound, still used in some hunting contexts today.
Health & Wellness
A generally sturdy breed, though ear infections, obesity, and back problems from its long spine are common concerns.
Notable Basset Hounds
Fred Basset
A long-running newspaper comic strip character.
Flash
A popular representation of the breed in advertising over the decades.
Registry Champions
A consistent presence at national conformation and scent-work trials.
Related Reading
Basset Hound Gifts
Copyright © 2005–2026 Dog Pound. All rights reserved.