Basset Breed Basics
Appearance
The Basset is a scent hound that was originally bred for hunting rabbits and other small game. The loose elastic skin around the neck and the long ears help trap the scent of what they are tracking. Their keen nose can lead them into dangerous situations such as the path of a speeding car and you shouting, chasing, and arm waving will " fall on deaf ears". Keep them safe on-leash and in a secure enclosed area at all times.
The Basset's short legs are due to a form of dwarfism. Their short stature can be deceiving; Bassets live for food, and are champion beggars, and will steal any tidbit within reach - which includes counter-tops, tabletops, and trash cans.
Because Bassets are so heavy, have such short legs, and long bodies, they are not able to hold themselves above water for very long when swimming or in deep water.
Coat
The coat of a Basset is medium-short, smooth, course, and sheds frequently. The Basset is a wash-n-go dog that may be bathed as frequently as needed. The coat is naturally oily, giving off a distinctive "hound scent", which is natural to the breed. Bassets are either tri-colored (a combination of black, white, and brown) red-and-white (a lighter red and white may be called lemon and white) Black-and-white (the black coloring is actually Seal Brown) sometimes you may see a completely brown Basset and lastly a Black-and-Tan.
The Basset is a scent hound that was originally bred for hunting rabbits and other small game. The loose elastic skin around the neck and the long ears help trap the scent of what they are tracking. Their keen nose can lead them into dangerous situations such as the path of a speeding car and you shouting, chasing, and arm waving will " fall on deaf ears". Keep them safe on-leash and in a secure enclosed area at all times.
The Basset's short legs are due to a form of dwarfism. Their short stature can be deceiving; Bassets live for food, and are champion beggars, and will steal any tidbit within reach - which includes counter-tops, tabletops, and trash cans.
Because Bassets are so heavy, have such short legs, and long bodies, they are not able to hold themselves above water for very long when swimming or in deep water.
Coat
The coat of a Basset is medium-short, smooth, course, and sheds frequently. The Basset is a wash-n-go dog that may be bathed as frequently as needed. The coat is naturally oily, giving off a distinctive "hound scent", which is natural to the breed. Bassets are either tri-colored (a combination of black, white, and brown) red-and-white (a lighter red and white may be called lemon and white) Black-and-white (the black coloring is actually Seal Brown) sometimes you may see a completely brown Basset and lastly a Black-and-Tan.
Ears
Bassets have long ears that do not allow air to circulate inside them. Basset ears may need to be cleaned weekly to keep them clean, dry, and prevent infections. Some Basset ears are so long that they may step on them.
Nails
Bassets have thick nails that grow very fast and need to be trimmed frequently (monthly). This can be done at a local groomer or vet office. If this is not done regularly, this can be extremely painful for a Basset.
Bassets have long ears that do not allow air to circulate inside them. Basset ears may need to be cleaned weekly to keep them clean, dry, and prevent infections. Some Basset ears are so long that they may step on them.
Nails
Bassets have thick nails that grow very fast and need to be trimmed frequently (monthly). This can be done at a local groomer or vet office. If this is not done regularly, this can be extremely painful for a Basset.
Personality
Basset Hounds are among the most easygoing of all breeds. Most are clownish, calm, good-natured, and affectionate. In general, Bassets get along well with people, children, other dogs, as well as other pets.
Generally, Bassets have a strong pack mentality and may not do well being left alone for long periods of time. For working owners, the company of another dog is the next best thing to having you there.
Bassets are prone to obesity. Healthy, trim Bassets have good energy levels, but don't let them fool you, they would be perfectly content to snooze away the day in the sun or on your lap. Although this laid back nature makes them desirable house pets, their weight MUST be kept in check. A daily walk or some type of exercise is needed. Basset Hounds cannot be trusted of-leash, so make sure to keep them secure at all times.
Bassets are sensitive, stubborn, smart, and conveniently "hard of hearing" and take punishments and reprimands to heart. They do best with positive reinforcement and love to be praised with treats.
For more information about Basset Hounds, please visit:
Basset Hounds are among the most easygoing of all breeds. Most are clownish, calm, good-natured, and affectionate. In general, Bassets get along well with people, children, other dogs, as well as other pets.
Generally, Bassets have a strong pack mentality and may not do well being left alone for long periods of time. For working owners, the company of another dog is the next best thing to having you there.
Bassets are prone to obesity. Healthy, trim Bassets have good energy levels, but don't let them fool you, they would be perfectly content to snooze away the day in the sun or on your lap. Although this laid back nature makes them desirable house pets, their weight MUST be kept in check. A daily walk or some type of exercise is needed. Basset Hounds cannot be trusted of-leash, so make sure to keep them secure at all times.
Bassets are sensitive, stubborn, smart, and conveniently "hard of hearing" and take punishments and reprimands to heart. They do best with positive reinforcement and love to be praised with treats.
For more information about Basset Hounds, please visit:
- dogtime.com
- dogbreedinfo.com
