Basset Hounds have a rich history that spans centuries, with their origins dating back to the 6th century in France.
Their name "Basset" is derived from the French word "bas", meaning low, which refers to their short stature.
France is the birthplace of this breed, where they were bred as hunting dogs to track small game like rabbits and hares.
In the 16th century, Basset Hounds were highly prized by French nobility for their exceptional tracking abilities and gentle nature.
Their distinctive physical features, such as their short legs and long ears, were developed through selective breeding to create a dog that could follow a scent trail undetected by its quarry.
Basset Hound Origins
Basset Hounds originated in France, specifically bred to hunt rabbits and deer in thick forests.
Their ancestors include the St. Hubert Hound, the ancestor of the Bloodhound, and were developed from a mutation in the St. Hubert strain that produced a short-legged hound.
The French word "basset” translates into "dwarf” or “low”, reflecting their short stature.
Basset Hounds were developed to be followed on foot by humans, making them a practical choice for hunters without horses.
Their ability to track game in heavy ground cover made them popular among French aristocrats.
By the 19th century, Basset Hounds had arrived in Britain and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
The Basset Hound was developed to individual perfection in England, where importation of the breed stopped and the English version developed on its own.
The breed's popularity grew in the late 1800s, and by 1885, it was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Basset Hound History
Basset Hounds originated in France and Belgium, specifically from the Abbey of St. Hubert where friars crossed strains of older French dog breeds to create a low-built scenthound.
The word "basset" translates to "low" or "dwarf" in French, which refers to the breed's short legs.
Basset Hounds were bred to track rabbits and deer in rough terrain, being followed by a human hunting partner on foot.
Their tracking accuracy made them a popular choice for French aristocrats who practiced hunting as a pastime.
The Basset Hound was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885, making it the organization's 10th established breed at the time.
George Washington was believed to be a Basset Hound owner, receiving them as gifts from Lafayette after the American Revolutionary War.
The Basset Hound Club of America was organized in the United States in 1935.
Origin and History
The Basset Hound's origin story is a fascinating one. Originally bred in France, they descended from the St. Hubert Hound, the ancestor of the Bloodhound.
They were developed from a mutation in the St. Hubert strain that produced a short-legged hound, which is where they got their name - "basset" translates to "dwarf" or "low" in French.
Their ability to track game in thick forests was noticed early on, and they were bred purposefully for hunting. Basset Hounds became very popular among French aristocrats for their hunting skills.
After the French Revolution, they were also used by commoners who needed a dog to follow on foot while hunting. This practical use helped spread their popularity.
Basset Hounds arrived in Britain in the 19th century and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make a Basset Hound?
A Basset Hound is a cross between a Bloodhound and smaller French breeds, specifically the Artesian Normand and the Basset d'Artois. This unique ancestry makes the Basset Hound a distinctive and beloved breed.
What were Basset hounds bred to hunt?
Basset Hounds were bred to hunt small game like rabbits and hares, as well as track larger wounded animals. Their exceptional scenting skills made them valuable companions for hunters.
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