Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a gentle and good-natured scent hound of French origin, bred over centuries to follow trails of small game at a pace that hunters could match on foot.
Its name derives from the French word bas, meaning low, a reference to its characteristically short-legged, long-bodied frame that keeps its exceptionally sensitive nose close to the ground.
20-34kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Basset Hound
Standing between 28 and 38 centimetres at the shoulder whilst weighing 20 to 34 kilograms, the Basset has a distinctive appearance defined by its heavy bone, wrinkled brow, long velvety ears that channel scent towards the nose, and large, soulful eyes that give the breed an irresistibly endearing expression. The short, dense coat typically comes in tricolour combinations of black, white, and tan, alongside lemon and white or other classic hound patterns. Despite its somewhat sorrowful appearance, the Basset Hound is a placid, affectionate, and patient breed that generally gets along well with children, other dogs, and most household pets. They are sensitive dogs that respond best to calm, positive reinforcement, though their strong hound instinct to follow scent means secure gardens and good recall training are essential. With moderate exercise needs of up to one hour daily and a lifespan of 12 to 14 years, Basset Hounds make wonderfully reliable family companions.
Basset Hound at a Glance
- Group
- Hound
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20–34 kg
- Height
- 28–38 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1800
Basset Hound Temperament
The Basset Hound is a placid, gentle and affectionate breed that is well suited to family life. Despite its size and solid build, it has a naturally calm disposition and is generally good with children and other pets. Like many breeds, Bassets can be lively and mischievous during their juvenile phase, but they settle into reliable, well-mannered companions with consistent, patient training. They are sensitive dogs that respond best to calm, positive reinforcement. Bassets have a strong nose and a typical hound tendency to follow scent, so secure gardens and good recall training are important for safe ownership.
Basset Hound Lifestyle
The Basset Hound is best matched to a larger house with room to roam and suits a home with a reasonably sized garden. They are versatile and do well in both city and countryside settings.
Dog Food for Basset Hound
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Basset Hound
Basset Hound Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Basset Hound weighing around 27 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£4.89 - £5.21
Per month
£147 - £156
Per year
£1784 - £1901
Basset Hound Characteristics
The Basset Hound thrives with vigorous daily activity and lots of space to burn off energy and is very responsive to training and loves to please. They make a great family dog, but cope with some alone time if properly settled. The coat needs occasional grooming to stay tidy and sheds at a typical rate for the breed type. Intelligence is a real hallmark of this breed, and they do best with plenty of mental enrichment alongside exercise.
Basset Hound Pros & Cons
Pros
- Gentle and affectionate with a calm temperament that suits family life perfectly
- Powerful scenting instincts balanced by a relaxed, patient nature
- Adapts to apartment or country living as long as they have secure outdoor access
- Highly social and good with children and other pets
Cons
- A stubborn streak means training needs consistency and patience
- Prone to ear and skin infections that need regular monitoring and cleaning
- Sheds moderately with heavier periods seasonally
- Can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too often
