Dogs Types

Basset Hounds

Country of Origin: The Basset Hound (‘Basset’ derives from ‘dwarf’) was bred at St. Hubert’s Abbey in medieval France to trail game. They were bred for sharp noses and short legs to be able to squeeze in under thick foliage, but were not meant to run at fast speeds, so as to prevent them from scaring game away or outrunning human companions. They were especially suited for rabbit hunting. Basset Hounds grew in popularity when Napoleon III kept a few as pets, and became known internationally during the 1863 Paris dog show. They were subsequently brought to America in the late 1800’s. Today, Basset Hounds are a popular pet and remain admired pack hunters. Some American cities, such as Buffalo and New Orleans, have annual Basset Hound-focused festivals and competitions, even crowning King and Queen Bassets. Famous Basset Hounds include comic strip character Fred Basset and the logo for ‘Hush Puppies’ brand shoes.

Coat: The coat of a Basset Hound is short, heavy, and smooth, with low grooming requirements. A brushing once or twice a week removes any dead dander hair, while keeping the skin circulated. But during heavy shedding cycles, the hair will need to be removed by brushing and bathing.

This color refers to a smooth, blue mottled and black, with tan markings on the hound. The Bleu De Gascogne is not recognized by the American Kennel Club according to their breed standard of the Basset Hound. But it is recognized under the FCI registry under the hound division, and is also recognized under the Rare Breed Network. The main registry for this colored Basset Hound is the Bleu De Gascogne Club of America, for those who enjoy this colored Basset and would like to show it.

Character: The Basset Hound is independent but sociable, calm, patient, and playful. Basset Hounds are extremely kind and easygoing. They are very fond of their master and family. The Basset Hound can be a bit stubborn and food is usually near the top of their agenda. They have a deep bark and become single-minded while in pursuit on the trail. It is hard to look in one’s soft, melancholy face without wanting to give it a hug.

Temperament: Basset Hounds are excellent playmates for children and get along great with dogs and other animals. Children should not be allowed to sit on or stress the dog’s back or pull its ears. The Basset Hound is a very social creature and does not like to be left alone. They may tend to drool.

Care: In addition to removing dead hairs with a firm brush when the Basset Hound is shedding, its great big ears must be kept clean to prevent infection. Its toenails should also be trimmed regularly. Obesity in long, short dogs such as Basset Hounds can lead to back and skeletal problems. Basset Hounds are susceptible to GDV (bloat from excessive gas), which requires immediate attention. To avoid obesity and GDV, spread out meals as much as possible and do not overfeed. Basset Hounds live 10-12 years and have litters of 6-10 puppies; large litters occur frequently.

Training: Even though the Basset Hound is one of the most popular fun-loving breeds for families and affection, they are the worst ones chosen for intelligent and fast training-not intelligent, mind you-but fast. And a person will never get quick and fast results from a Basset, because they do not want to learn unless they have a good reason to. The trainer or owner needs to show they "why" they need to learn, and make it fun for them to get their attention. And for anyone who has attempted to train a Basset, they will recognize this fact instantly.

Before beginning a strong training schedule with the Basset, respecting the breed may be the first big step to conquer. Once this is done, the wisdom of training this reluctant breed will be made much easier, along with the understanding of how they think and why they do what they do coming into play.

Once the intelligence of the Basset is brought forth, along with recognizing that different rules may need to apply to the particular training style, both the trainer and the "trainee" will be ready to go-eagerly and happily. But it will be a challenge and hard work, even with these preliminary steps already accomplished. This breed is stubborn and mule-headed once it is on the hunt. Those who know the breed know from experience that no matter how much the dog loves them, once on a hunt the dog will take off and never turn around to see if they are following. LOTS of patience while maintaining a steady and loving manner will work wonders with any breed, but this breed requires it along with persistence, sheer determination, and love.

The Basset is naturally a pack animal, along with being a "team member"-as long as it is fun. Fun desiring, along with being lazy enough to want do nothing but sleep and easy, is where the challenge will come in. The effort to get this breed off the floor or couch, while recognizing it will be fun to do what you want-not the dog. To do that, become the alpha dog, the leader, the boss, the one who does the commanding and will not quit. Once this is recognized, the training will begin in a successful direction to develop one of the most wonderful companions known on earth, and one of the most trusting breeds alive.

Activity: Basset Hounds have the tendency to overeat therefore should be given plenty of exercise to keep him healthy. Normally a lazy breed, this dog should be taken on regulated walks and should be allowed a free roam in a safe, fenced in area.

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