Basset Hound

ORIGIN

The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog of the hound family, as well as one of six recognized Basset breeds in France; furthermore, Bassets are scent hounds that were originally bred for the purpose of hunting rabbits and hare. The basset type originated in France, and is descended from the 6 th century hounds belonging to St-Hubert of Belgium, which through breeding at the Benedictine Abbey of St. Hubert eventually became what is known as the St-Hubert’s Hound around 1000 AD. Basset type hounds became popular during the reign of Emperor Napoleon III (r. 1852-1870). French bassets were being imported into England at least as early as the 1870s.

TEMPERAMENT

The Basset Hound is a friendly, outgoing, and playful dog. It can be extremely tolerant of children and other pets. Bassets are considered a vocal breed. It also has a very hearty appetite and tends to be placid but loud.

ACTIVITY LEVEL

The Basset Hound requires low to moderate exercise regimen on a regular basis (no more than 2-3 kilometers per day to begin with).

HEIGHT/WEIGHT

Between 30–38 cm (M) and 28–36 cm (F) / between 20 and 35 kilograms.

COAT

Smooth, short and close.

COLOR

Generally black, white and tan (tri-color) or tan/lemon and white (bi-color); but any recognized hound color acceptable.

GROOMING

Low.

(Source: Wikipédia & The Ultimate Dogs, Dog Breeds & Dog Care by Dr Peter Larkin & Mike Stockman, August 2015)