Basset Hound

The origin of the Basset Hound is in France, where since the 16th century there were short-legged hunting dogs with an extraordinary sense of smell used to track small game at a pace that allowed them to be followed on foot. The name comes from the French 'bas', which means "low", referring to its short stature. The breed was deliberately selected to have short legs and a long body, which allowed it to work among dense vegetation and keep the scent close to the ground, where odors are strongest.

At the end of the 19th century, the Basset Hound arrived in Great Britain, where it was crossed with English hounds and refined into the current type, somewhat heavier and with even longer ears. It was recognized by the British Kennel Club and soon spread to the United States and other countries. Its popularity as a companion dog grew during the 20th century, especially when the shoe brand Hush Puppies adopted its image as an advertising mascot. Today it is appreciated worldwide for its calm temperament and unmistakable appearance.

The Basset Hound is a short-legged, long, heavy-bodied dog, with a build that sets it apart from any other breed. Its skin is loose, with pronounced folds especially on the face and neck, and its ears (extraordinarily long and pendulous) help channel scents toward the muzzle when tracking. Its eyes are large, droopy and have a mournful expression, but its temperament is anything but melancholic.

In terms of temperament, the Basset Hound is calm, friendly, patient and very good company. It gets along well with children, with other dogs and, in general, with everyone. It is not an aggressive dog, although it may be reserved in new situations. Its main distinguishing trait is its stubbornness: when a Basset Hound has made up its mind, it takes a lot of patience and creativity to redirect it.

Its sense of smell is its great superpower: it has approximately 220 million olfactory receptors, one of the highest counts in the canine world, which makes it one of the best trackers around. When it picks up an interesting scent, everything else disappears from its mind. That is why areas where it is let off must be well fenced and a leash is essential in open spaces.

The most critical care for the Basset Hound is weight control. This breed has a natural predisposition to obesity which, combined with its short legs and long spine, can lead to serious joint and back problems. Feeding must be very precise in calories, treats should be minimal and exercise (although moderate) should be regular. Two medium-length daily walks are sufficient for its physical needs.

The Basset Hound's long ears easily trap moisture and dirt, making them extremely prone to ear infections. Cleaning them at least once a week and always after contact with water is essential to prevent infections. Attention should also be paid to the skin folds and the paws, especially between the toes. Feeding should be divided into two meals to reduce the risk of gastric torsion.

The most frequent and relevant disease in the Basset Hound is obesity, which in this breed is not just an aesthetic issue but a direct threat to joint and spinal health. An overweight Basset Hound multiplies the risk of elbow dysplasia, intervertebral disc problems and breathing difficulties. Strict control of diet and regular exercise are the best preventive medicine. Chronic otitis is also very common, due to the shape of their ears.

Joint problems may also occur, especially elbow dysplasia and, with age, generalized osteoarthritis. Gastric torsion is another risk in deep-chested breeds; dividing meals and avoiding vigorous exercise immediately after eating significantly reduces its likelihood. With strict weight control, regular ear hygiene, quality nutrition and periodic veterinary follow-up, the Basset Hound can enjoy a calm and very comfortable life.