Basset hounds are known for their long floppy ears and puppy dog eyes. But that's not all there is to this breed. This pup was bred for hunting and tracking, so it's no wonder that they are always up for an outdoorsy adventure.
Basset hounds are known for being a bit headstrong, but they can often be persuaded with one of the best dog treats. They are very intelligent and once they've got a scent on their nose, they are determined to find it.
From being pop culture icons to their French heritage, there are endless things to know about this breed. Let's get into some fun facts about basset hounds that you will definitely want to know.
32 fun facts about basset hounds
1. An amazing sense of smell
Basset hounds were originally bred for hunting and tracking. So it is no surprise that their sense of smell is nearly unmatched. They are said to be the best dog trackers right after bloodhounds.
2. Can have a one track mind
Their incredible tracking skills can sometimes come as a disadvantage. Once they've got their nose to the ground and a scent on their mind, they can be hard to sway or distract, even by one of the best dog toys.
3. They are very social
Basset hounds are used to working in packs. This makes them well-suited to homes with multiple people or pets. They are also one of the best dogs for families.
4. Very vocal
This is certainly a breed with lots to say. Basset hounds can be very vocal and their howls can be loud. So if you are looking for a pup to have a chat with, this may be the one for you.
5. Droopy ears require extra care
Floppy ears and droopy eyes are the basset hound's trademark look. However, they do require extra attention. Ears that constantly drag on the ground can pick up dirt and debris that can lead to infection. Similarly, the skin around their eyes will need regular cleaning.
6. They are hefty dogs
Do not let their short stature fool you, this is no small breed. A basset hound can weigh up to 80lbs or so, classifying them as a large breed dog. Which is helpful to know when you are picking out the best dog food.
7. They are very clever
The basset hound is a very clever breed, so trying out some of the quick and easy tricks to teach your dog should be a breeze. That is as long as they feel up to it. Basset hounds can be very stubborn and are not always in the mood for a training session.
8. Should be safely confined
A nose like nobody knows, basset hounds can catch a scent anytime. It is important to ensure that they are safely confined when in their outdoor space. This will keep them from wandering off after catching an interesting scent.
9. At risk for becoming overweight
Due to their short legs and smaller stature, they are prone to obesity. It is important to make sure they get plenty of exercise and eat a balanced, nutritious diet to keep them in tip-top shape.
10. Not great watch dogs
A breed that's bred to hunt and track might be a natural choice if you're looking for a guard dog. However, the basset hounds are so friendly in nature that they are just as likely to welcome a burglar than to scare them away. This definitely knocks them off the list for best guard dog breeds.
11. French heritage
Basset hounds are said to have descended from France. Which makes sense as their name contains the French words 'bas' and 'et' which mean 'rather low'. This referred to the dog's short stature.
12. Loved by celebs
Not just loved in France but the basset hound has captured the hearts of many US celebrities. Marilyn Monroe, Doris Day, Clint Eastwood, Shakira, and George Clooney are just a few Hollywood, A-listers to have a basset hound.
13. More bone per pound than any other breed
You may be surprised that a full-grown basset hound is not so easy to carry. That is because they have more bones per pound than any other dog breed!
14. Hate to be left alone
As basset hounds were bred to work in packs, they do not like to be left alone. Knowing how to reduce separation anxiety in dogs, can be very helpful with this breed.
15. Need regular exercise
Basset hounds need regular exercise to stay feeling their best. Around an hour a day is recommended. They will especially enjoy a walk that offers loads of chances to follow their nose. This could also be a good to time to practice off-leash walking.
16. Can be prone to bloating
Due to their deep chests, basset hounds are prone to bloating. Offering smaller meals more frequently can help combat this.
17. Easy to groom
You'll be happy to hear that basset hounds can generally be groomed once a week. Their short, smooth coats can be easily managed with one of the best dog brushes.
18. Not great swimmers
The proportions of the basset hound's body make swimming a little tricky for them. While they are not one of the dog breeds that are made for swimming, this won't stop them from wanting to dip their paws in the water.
19. Ears also help them smell
The basset hound's long floppy ears are not just for show. They actually help lift the scent from the ground and up to their nose. Pretty cool huh?
20. Brand face of Hush Puppy shoes
Thought they looked familiar? It's true, the basset hound is the mascot for popular American shoe company, Hush Puppies.
21. Short legs keep them close to the ground
It may seem obvious, but this was intended to help them with tracking and hunting. Keeping closer to the ground ensured they could stay with the scent they were tracking more easily.
22. Need lots of baths
All of that hard work will certainly have them working up a sweat. But not just that, basset hounds are more likely to come in contact with all sorts of dirt and debris that can get caught on their bodies, ears, and eyes. Frequent baths will keep them clean and healthy.
23. Large paws are used for digging
Their large paws are not just for show. Basset hounds would use their paws and nails for digging into rabbit or hare holes.
24. Can vary in color
Basset hounds can come in five main color patterns. They may appear in tricolors of black, tan, white, and lemon.
25. High levels of stamina
As the basset hound was built for long hunts, they have high levels of stamina. This can be great for more outdoorsy dog owners. Your pup will enjoy spending long periods on an outdoor adventure.
26. Elvis Presley serenaded a basset hound
On the Steve Allen Show in 1956, Elvis Presley sang his hit song 'Hound Dog' to a basset hound live on stage.
27. Pop culture icon
Aside from their duet with Elvis Presley, the basset hound has been featured in many pop culture films and TV shows. They can be seen in The Princess and the Frog, Secret Life of Pets, and Columbo.
28. Later bred with bloodhounds
While the basset hound already had an impeccable sense of smell, they were later bred with bloodhounds to increase their size and build. This was also done to limit the amount of genetic problems they were prone to.
29. Laid-back personality
When they are not hard at work tracking scents, they are pretty chill and easy-going. They are happy hanging out with you or playing with one of the best snuffle mats for dogs to give their nose a workout.
30. Can be prone to back problems
Basset hounds, with their short legs and long spines, can be prone to intervertebral disc disease. According to the West Orange Veterinary Hospital, it is a common condition in dogs with this type of build and is similar to a slipped disc.
If you notice your dog in pain or not moving around like normal, you make an appointment with your vet immediately.
31. They are not especially quick
In fact, this is why they were chosen for tracking as humans could easily keep up with them while on the hunt. While they are not built for speed, they are built for endurance and will be all for hitting up the best dog walks in the US.
32. Featured on the cover of Time magazine
In 1928, a basset hound was the cover star of Time magazine. The attributing article inside was all about the 52nd annual Westminister Kennel Club Dog Show, from the basset hound's point of view.
