What is a basset hound?
The web site cyberhound.com said, "A basset hound is a long, low-slung, heavy-boned scent hound bred for hunting small game, primarily rabbits. His long ears were developed to stir up ground scent for his large nose to smell. The folds of skin under his chin are useful for trapping and holding the scent. His large feet give him steadiness and his heavy bones make him sturdy."

All the basset hounds I've seen are very short. Are bassets a small breed?
No! Basset hounds are technically considered a medium-sized breed, with the average weight between forty-five and sixty-five pounds. Some bassets, however, can weigh up to one hundred pounds and are definitely in the large-sized breed category. Most males weigh between fifty and seventy pounds, with the females weighing between forty and fifty pounds. Bassets are generally not taller than fourteen to fifteen inches in height, which leads to the mistaken idea that they are small dogs.

Are bassets "couch potatoes"?
Some bassets like nothing more than to snooze on the couch all day. They are definitely the exception. Basset hounds are usually very active dogs that get into trouble regularly. They love to play, and will have toys stashed all over their house and yard. Many chew, and some are very destructive. Food, paper, and garbage cans are all particular temptations to the basset hound. One favorite activity of many bassets is counter cruising, which is checking the kitchen for any food left within reach (and when they stretch, they are L O N G dogs!). Bassets love to go for regular walks with their owners. Be forewarned, however, that basset hounds are not good dogs to take "off lead." They will follow their noses, and can and often will wander off, sometimes never to be seen again. That is why AZBHR requires a fenced yard for all bassets that we place.

Do basset hounds shed and drool?
Yes to both questions! Although basset hounds have short hair, they can shed a LOT. Regular brushings with a "hound mitt" can help, but their owners still need a good vacuum cleaner. It is a good idea to get into a regular routine of brushing your dog, clipping his nails, and cleaning his ears at least once a week. Basset hounds can fling their drool everywhere. It has not been unknown to find drool on the ceiling! Males tend to drool more than females, and both sexes drool more when excited or upset (and especially while riding in the car). A drool towel is a recommended accessory wherever you take your hound.

Do basset hounds get along well with children and other dogs?
Basset hounds are generally very even-tempered and most of them love children. The basset hound may not be the right pet for a home with small children, however, because sometimes the children will attempt to "ride" the dog, which can cause serious harm to the basset's long back. Some bassets require as much care as a small child, so one child in the house may be enough! They are great companions and playmates for older children. They also get along with most other dogs, particularly other hounds. They are bred to be a "pack" animal when used for hunting. Many homes that have one basset decide that two or three is even better.

Are basset hounds stupid?
Because basset hounds typically do not excel in obedience, they are sometimes considered less intelligent than other breeds. They are actually highly intelligent, but they possess an independent nature and low desire to please their owners. In other words, basset hounds are VERY STUBBORN! This can be frustrating, but they are also quite a challenge for a dog trainer! They do tend to respond well to food rewards, so if you decide to attend obedience classes with your basset hound, seek out a trainer that believes in training with positive food reinforcement. They are also fairly hard to housetrain. This can sometimes take up to several months to accomplish. The easiest method of housetraining is to buy a doggie door.

Do basset hounds have any health concerns?

• All floppy-eared dogs are prone to ear infections, because air does not circulate and dry the ears on a regular basis. It is very important to keep your basset hound's ears clean and dry at all times.
• Glaucoma is a condition where the pressure of the fluid in the eye increases until the sight is gone in that eye. Basset hounds are predisposed to this condition and must be watched carefully. Glaucoma can be corrected if caught early.
• Paneostetis is sometimes referred to as "growing pains" or "pano." It occurs as a rotating lameness, usually in puppies up to 18 months. There are tests for pano which should be done to rule out more serious problems. Sometimes crate rest is all a puppy needs for complete recovery. Many vets are unaware of this condition - make sure you ask about it before complicated and unnecessary surgery is recommended.
• Von Willebrand's Disease is an inherited bleeding disorder. This can be diagnosed in basset hounds over 2 years old by a test administered by a veterinarian.
• Bloat occurs in deep-chested breeds such as basset hounds. It is a tortioning of the stomach and is life-threatening. One possible precaution is to soak the basset hound's food in water before feeding him so that the food will not expand in his stomach and possibly cause bloat.
• Basset hounds can suffer from a variety of allergies, many occurring simply because they are low to the ground and disturb stinging and biting insects. Your vet can provide advice on the best way to treat your hound for these allergies.

content created for Arizona Basset Hound Rescue by Dena Pierrets

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