Basset Hound
The Good
- Obedient and peaceful nature
- No aggression towards people or other animals
- Short coat requires minimal grooming
The Real
- Can be slow and deliberate in their movements
- Prone to wandering off following scents
- Tendency to drool
- Predisposed to certain health conditions
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Basset Hound is one of those breeds that captures hearts with a single glance - those impossibly long ears, soulful eyes, and that perpetually sad expression that makes you want to give them a cuddle immediately. Don't let their mournful appearance fool you though; these are sturdy, determined hunting dogs with personalities as big as their ears are long.
Originally bred in France for hunting rabbits and hares, Basset Hounds are built low to the ground for a reason. Their short legs and powerful nose made them perfect for following scent trails that faster hounds might miss. Today, most Australian Basset Hounds have traded their hunting boots for family slippers, becoming beloved companions who bring their own special brand of gentle chaos to households across the country.
These medium-sized dogs pack big-dog strength into a compact, manageable frame that works well in Australian suburban homes. They're the kind of dog that greets everyone like an old friend - your neighbour, the postie, even the cat next door. Their laid-back nature makes them fantastic with kids, though their independent streak means they'll always march to the beat of their own drum.
In Australian homes, you'll often find Basset Hounds contentedly snoozing in air-conditioned comfort during hot summer days, then coming alive for evening walks when the temperature drops. They're not marathon runners, but they've got stamina for days when something interesting catches their nose.
History
History
The Basset Hound's story begins in the monasteries of medieval France, where monks needed a hunting companion that could keep pace with hunters on foot rather than horseback. The name itself tells the story - "basset" comes from the French word "bas," meaning low, combined with the English "hound." Essentially, they're "low-set hounds," and that perfectly describes their distinctive silhouette.
These dogs are descendants of the St. Hubert Hound, a now-extinct breed that resembled modern Bloodhounds. French breeders selectively developed the shorter-legged variety to create a hound that could work dense undergrowth and difficult terrain where taller dogs struggled. Their job was to flush out rabbits and hares, working methodically rather than at breakneck speed.
The breed made its way to England in the mid-1800s, where aristocrats fell in love with their gentle nature and distinctive appearance. Lord Galway received a pair named Bella and Basset as a gift in 1866, and these dogs became the foundation of the English breeding program. British breeders refined the breed further, developing the modern Basset Hound we know today.
The breed gained international recognition when it was featured on the cover of Time magazine in 1928, showcasing the Westminster Dog Show. From there, Basset Hounds spread across the globe, arriving in Australia where they've found their niche as family companions who occasionally remember their hunting heritage when an interesting scent crosses their path.
Traits & Characteristics
Basset Hound characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Basset Hounds are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-13 years, but their unique body structure does predispose them to certain health conditions that Australian owners should be aware of. The most common issues relate to their long ears, short legs, and deep chest.
Those adorable droopy ears are prone to infections due to poor air circulation. Australian humidity, particularly in places like Brisbane and Darwin, can exacerbate this problem. Regular ear cleaning and checking for signs of infection - head shaking, scratching, or odour - is essential. Many Australian vets recommend weekly ear cleaning as preventive care.
Their short, curved legs make Basset Hounds susceptible to joint problems, particularly hip and elbow dysplasia. The breed's tendency to gain weight easily puts additional strain on these joints, potentially leading to arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise is crucial, especially given Australia's outdoor lifestyle opportunities.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is another concern for breeds with long backs and short legs. This spinal condition can cause pain and, in severe cases, paralysis. Australian owners should be particularly careful about letting their Basset Hounds jump on and off furniture or navigate stairs frequently.
Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is a serious emergency condition that affects deep-chested breeds. Symptoms include restlessness, excessive drooling, and a distended abdomen. This requires immediate veterinary attention and is why many Australian vets recommend feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise immediately after eating.
Feeding a Basset Hound properly is crucial because these dogs have a talent for turning food into love handles faster than you can say "second helpings." Their low energy levels combined with their food motivation means weight management is a constant consideration for Australian owners.
Adult Basset Hounds do best with two measured meals per day rather than free feeding. This helps prevent bloat and gives you better control over their calorie intake. Choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for their life stage - puppy, adult, or senior - and stick to the feeding guidelines on the package, using a measuring cup rather than eyeballing portions.
Their powerful noses mean you'll need to be vigilant about securing food. These dogs are notorious counter surfers and bin raiders, so invest in dog-proof containers and keep human food well out of reach. Table scraps are particularly tempting for Basset Hounds, but resist those pleading eyes - extra calories add up quickly on their low-slung frames.
Many Australian vets recommend joint supplements for Basset Hounds due to their predisposition to hip and elbow problems. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help manage skin and ear inflammation, which is particularly relevant in Australia's varied climate conditions.
Puppies may need up to four meals per day, gradually reducing to adult portions. Always provide fresh water, and consider using slow-feeder bowls if your Basset tends to inhale their food. Some Australian owners find elevated bowls helpful for their dog's comfort, though this should be discussed with your vet as it may increase bloat risk in some dogs.
Here's some good news for busy Australian families - Basset Hounds are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, smooth coat doesn't require professional grooming, but don't think you're completely off the hook. These dogs do shed year-round, and during Australian spring and autumn, you might find yourself wondering if your Basset is part tumble-weed.
Weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt or soft brush will help control the shedding and keep their coat healthy. It's also a great bonding activity that most Basset Hounds enjoy, especially if you start when they're puppies. During shedding seasons, you might need to brush more frequently - your vacuum cleaner will thank you.
Bathing should be done monthly or as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo. If your Basset has skin issues or allergies (not uncommon in the breed), your Australian vet might recommend medicated shampoos and more frequent baths. After bathing, make sure to dry thoroughly between their skin folds to prevent irritation.
Those magnificent ears require weekly cleaning to prevent infections, particularly important in Australia's humid coastal areas. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner and cotton balls - never cotton buds that could damage the ear canal. Their droopy eyelids can collect debris, so gentle daily cleaning with a damp cloth helps prevent eye problems.
Don't forget about nail trimming every few weeks. Basset Hounds who spend time on Australian concrete and pavement may wear their nails down naturally, but regular checks are still important. Dental care is often overlooked but crucial - brush their teeth several times a week with dog-specific toothpaste.
Training a Basset Hound is like negotiating with a friendly but stubborn diplomat - they'll hear you out, consider your proposal, and then decide if it's worth their while. These intelligent dogs understand what you're asking; they just prefer to think it over before complying. Australian owners need patience, consistency, and a good sense of humour.
Positive reinforcement works best with Basset Hounds, and fortunately, most are food-motivated. Find high-value treats that make their eyes light up and save them exclusively for training sessions. Keep training sessions short and engaging - these dogs can get bored quickly, and a bored Basset is a selectively deaf Basset.
Early socialisation is crucial for Australian Basset Hound puppies. Expose them to different people, places, and situations while they're young and adaptable. Many Australian dog training clubs offer puppy classes that are perfect for this breed, providing controlled environments for learning basic manners and social skills.
Exercise needs are moderate but important for preventing obesity. A daily walk at a comfortable pace suits most Basset Hounds perfectly - think leisurely stroll rather than power walk. They love exploring new scents, so varying your walking routes keeps them mentally stimulated. Many Australian owners find their Basset Hounds enjoy beach walks, though the sand provides extra resistance that can tire them out more quickly.
Remember that these dogs were bred to follow scent trails independently, so reliable recall can be challenging. Keep them on lead in unfenced areas - a Basset who catches an interesting scent can disappear faster than you'd expect from those short legs.
Who is an ideal owner?
Basset Hounds make wonderful companions for a wide range of Australian households, but they're particularly well-suited to certain lifestyles. If you're looking for a gentle, laid-back dog who's happy to adapt to your pace rather than demanding you keep up with theirs, a Basset Hound might be your perfect match.
These dogs thrive with owners who appreciate their independent spirit while providing consistent, patient guidance. They're ideal for families with children, as their gentle nature and tolerance make them excellent playmates. Many Australian families find that Basset Hounds are particularly good with toddlers, being sturdy enough to handle some rough play while remaining calm and patient.
First-time dog owners often do well with Basset Hounds because they're not overly demanding in terms of exercise or complex training requirements. However, you do need to be prepared for some vocal communication - these dogs have opinions and aren't shy about expressing them, which might not suit apartment living in densely populated Australian suburbs.
Retirees and older adults often find Basset Hounds to be ideal companions. Their moderate exercise needs align well with daily walks, and their calm, affectionate nature provides wonderful companionship. They're also excellent for people who work from home, content to snooze nearby while you're busy, then ready for attention when you take a break.
If you're someone who enjoys a clean, tidy home, be prepared for some adjustments. Basset Hounds can be drooly, they shed, and those long ears can track in mud and debris from outside adventures.
Interesting facts about the Basset Hound
Basset Hounds hold the world record for longest dog ears - a Basset named Mr
Jeffries had ears measuring 29.2 cm each.
Interesting Fact
They're considered the slowest of all hound breeds, but this deliberate pace was actually bred into them for hunting purposes
Interesting Fact
George Washington reportedly owned Basset Hounds that were gifted to him by the Marquis de Lafayette after the American Revolution
Interesting Fact
A Basset Hound puppy appeared on the cover of Time magazine in 1928, making them one of the first dog breeds to achieve such mainstream media recognition
FAQ
The typical Basset Hound life expectancy is 12-13 years. With proper care, regular vet checkups, and maintaining a healthy weight, many live full, happy lives within this range.
Basset Hound prices in Australia typically range from $1,200-$3,500 depending on location, breeder reputation, and bloodlines. You can also find Basset Hounds through rescue organisations, which is often a more affordable option.
Absolutely! Basset Hounds are friendly, laid-back dogs that make excellent family pets. They're particularly good with children due to their patient, gentle nature and sturdy build.
Yes, Basset Hounds are smart dogs, but they're also independent thinkers. They understand commands well but may take their time deciding whether to follow them - it's more about selective listening than lack of intelligence.
Basset Hounds can adapt to apartment living in Australian cities, but their loud, baying bark might be an issue for close neighbours. They need daily walks but don't require a large backyard, making them suitable for Sydney or Melbourne unit living if their vocal tendencies are managed.
They need moderate daily exercise - typically a 30-45 minute walk. In hot Australian summers, walk them during cooler morning or evening hours. Their short legs and deep chest mean they're not suited to intense exercise or long runs.
Weekly brushing is sufficient for their short coat, though you'll need to brush more frequently during shedding seasons. Their ears need cleaning 1-2 times per week to prevent infections, especially important in humid Australian coastal areas.
Yes, they're often good choices for first-time owners due to their gentle nature and moderate care requirements. However, be prepared for their stubborn streak during training and their tendency to follow interesting scents if off-lead.