Basset Hounds come in a variety of colors, including tri-color, black and tan, and red and white. The most common color is tri-color, which features a black body with white markings and tan points.
These adorable dogs have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming. Their calm and gentle nature makes them a great choice for families with children.
Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive physical appearance, which includes their short legs and long, floppy ears.
Breed Variations
Basset hounds have many related breeds, including the Basset Artesien Normand, Basset Bleu de Gascogne, and Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
These breeds are all part of the hound group, which is further divided into scenthounds, sighthounds, and cur-type hunting breeds.
If you're interested in exploring more breeds, here are some related types: Anglo-French hounds, Coonhounds, and Feists.
In terms of geographic origins, basset hounds also have connections to breeds from the United Kingdom, including the Bloodhound, which is another scenthound breed.
Here are some breeds from the UK that are worth mentioning: Collies, Fell Terriers, Fox Terriers, Longdogs & Lurchers.
If you're looking for more information on basset hound variations, consider checking out breeds from France, such as the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, which is a type of scenthound.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Are Beagles and Basset Hounds Related
Petit Vendéen
The Petit Vendéen is a compact dog that stands between 13 and 15 inches tall.
He's a relatively lightweight dog, unlike his larger relative, the basset hound.
His coat is rough and medium-length, requiring weekly brushing to keep it looking its best.
This little fellow is a peppy and outgoing dog who loves spending time with other dogs and children.
Grand Griffon Vendéen
The grand griffon vendéen is a hound dog that stands between 15.5 and 18 inches tall at the shoulder.
This dog has a rich history, with 400 years of French heritage behind it.
The grand griffon vendéen has a harsh coat that protects it from thorns and brambles, similar to its cousin the grand basset griffon vendéen.
They are not basset dog breeds, despite their name, because they don't have the shorter limbs that the basset is known for.
Fauve de Bretagne
The Fauve de Bretagne is a rare breed, recognized by the United Kennel Club, but not yet by the American Kennel Club. It's part of the hound group and is known for being a small, stocky, rectangular-shaped rough-coated hound.
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This breed is used for hunting, particularly for larger game, but it's also known for its ability to hunt rabbits. Its solid coat is one of its distinctive features.
The Fauve de Bretagne is a relatively small breed, but it's sturdy and compact, making it well-suited for its hunting role.
Basset Hound Basics
Their original jobs as hunting dogs required them to have impressive endurance, which they still possess today.
Basset Hounds are quite bulky and heavy-boned, with long bodies on fairly short and crooked legs, giving them a somewhat rectangular appearance.
They have large heads, wrinkled foreheads, loose lips, long hanging ears, and sad eyes.
Temperament
Basset Hounds are generally calm and easygoing, but they can be lazy and refuse to do anything quickly. This laid-back approach to life can make training a challenge.
Their calm personality makes them a perfect companion for a mainly indoor owner, but they still enjoy outdoor time.
Basset Hounds are very easygoing, friendly dogs who enjoy being in the company of their humans. They're also great with kids and get along well with other dogs.
They're intelligent, but also quite stubborn, which makes them somewhat difficult to train. Bassets like to dig and many can be serious barkers.
The Basset Hound is a friendly, outgoing, and playful dog, tolerant of children and other pets.
Physical and Nutritional Needs
Basset Hounds have specific physical needs, and their short legs and long bodies can make them prone to putting on weight. To keep your Basset Hound healthy, it's essential to feed them high-quality dog food in consultation with your vet.
Fresh and clean water should always be available and in reach.
Care and Upkeep
The Basset Hound requires up to an hour of walking or playing during the cool parts of the day.
Exercise should be done on a leash or in a fenced area, as Basset Hounds are faster than most owners and may ignore calls to return.
Basset Hounds are not good jumpers and may need help getting into vehicles.
Regular coat care is essential, with weekly brushing and occasional bathing.
Spring and fall shedding can be profuse, requiring daily brushing to prevent matting.
The loose skin around the head should be regularly cleaned and dried to combat odour.
Basset Hounds are prone to obesity due to their low energy levels, so moderate feeding and exercise are crucial.
To prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening condition, some owners opt to have the stomach surgically attached to the abdominal wall.
Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential health issues, such as elbow and hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eyelid abnormalities.
Diet and Nutrition
Your Basset Hound needs high-quality dog food that's specifically formulated for their breed and age. Consult with your vet to choose the right food.
Fresh and clean water should always be available and easily accessible for your pet. It's a good idea to place water bowls in a quiet spot where your Basset won't knock them over.
Some Basset Hounds are prone to weight gain, so keep an eye on their calorie intake. This means limiting treats and snacks, even if they're meant for training.
Treats can be helpful for training, but only give them in small amounts. If you have concerns about your Basset's diet or weight, talk to your vet for personalized advice.
Take a look at this: Yorkshire Terrier Treats
Basset Hound History and Activities
Basset Hounds originated in France, bred from the St. Hubert Hound, and were developed when a mutation produced a short-legged hound.
The French word "basset" translates into "dwarf" or "low", which suits their physical characteristics. They were bred for hunting small game like hares and rabbits.
Basset Hounds were highly valued by French aristocrats for their hunting skills but became popular among commoners after the French Revolution, who used them to hunt on foot. They were a practical choice since they didn't require horses.
Basset Hounds arrived in Britain in the 19th century and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. They were bred to hunt small game on foot, using their keen nose and short stature to their advantage.
A variation of the Basset Hound was developed for hunting by Colonel Morrison and was admitted to the Masters of Basset Hounds Association in 1959. This variation has straighter and longer legs and shorter ears compared to the standard Basset Hound.
Discover more: How to Train a German Shorthaired Pointer to Hunt
Related Breeds
If you're looking for breeds similar to basset hounds, you've got several options.
Basset Artesien Normand, Basset Bleu de Gascogne, and Basset Fauve de Bretagne are all breeds that share some similarities with basset hounds.
These breeds are all part of the scenthound family, which means they're bred for their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities.
Here are some breeds you might find interesting:
- Basset Artesien Normand
- Basset Bleu de Gascogne
- Basset Fauve de Bretagne
- Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
- Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
- Bloodhound
These breeds are all known for their distinctive characteristics and abilities, and are definitely worth learning more about if you're a basset hound fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between English and American Basset Hounds?
English Basset Hounds have more wrinkles, while American Basset Hounds are slightly larger. Both breeds make wonderful family pets with proper care and training.
Is there a French Basset Hound?
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a French scent hound breed, but it's not a Basset Hound. It's a distinct breed with its own unique characteristics, originating from Brittany, France.
What is the difference between American and European Basset Hounds?
The main difference between American and European Basset Hounds is the amount of wrinkled skin and droopy eyes, giving European Basset Hounds a more distinctive appearance. European Basset Hounds have more pronounced wrinkles and skin folds than their American counterparts.
What is the French version of the Basset Hound?
The French version of the Basset Hound is the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, a lively and robust hound breed. This charming breed is known for its happy demeanor and durable constitution, making it a wonderful companion.
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