Basset Hound: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care

Basset Hound temperament and personality

The AKC rates the Basset Hound five out of five with young children and with other dogs, and describes a breed built for endurance rather than speed. Bassets were developed to hunt in packs, and they generally enjoy company, both human and canine, and dislike being left out.

They are vocal, four out of five for barking on the AKC scale, and that deep bay is part of the package. Energy is low, two out of five, so most Bassets are calm in the house, though they can be stubborn when they would rather follow a smell than you.

How big do Basset Hounds get?

The AKC lists the Basset Hound at up to 15 inches tall and 40 to 65 pounds. They are short-legged but heavy-boned, with powerful legs, massive paws, a large domed head, very long velvety ears and a wrinkled brow. The AKC describes big-dog strength and stamina in a low frame.

That much weight on short legs makes a lean body especially important. Extra pounds strain the back and joints, and many Bassets will eat anything they can reach. Measure meals and ask your vet for a target weight.

Basset Hound lifespan and common health issues

The AKC gives a Basset Hound lifespan of 12 to 13 years. It stresses checking the long, droopy ears often, because poor air circulation can lead to infection, and says head shaking or scratching at the ears may mean a vet visit is needed. VCA adds that infected ears often turn red, smell bad and produce discharge.

Responsible breeders check for hip and elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, bleeding disorders and luxating patella, according to the AKC, which recommends an eye exam and DNA tests including one for primary open-angle glaucoma. A red, painful or cloudy eye needs a vet the same day, as glaucoma can damage sight quickly. Ask breeders for parent results.

Exercise needs

The AKC says Bassets are not as active as some breeds but need regular, moderate exercise; usually a daily walk at a moderate pace is enough, and it helps prevent weight gain. They enjoy canine company on outings and can be quite playful.

Let the nose lead: sniff walks and scent games are perfect for a scent hound. Keep a Basset leashed or in a fenced area, because a good smell can switch off its ears entirely. Avoid jumping from heights, which jars the long back.

Grooming and shedding

Short coat, but not no grooming. The AKC says the short hair can shed profusely and recommends going over the dog at least once a week with a soft brush or shedding tool. The AKC rates shedding two out of five, but many owners find it noticeable.

Drooling is four out of five on the AKC scale, so keep a cloth handy and wipe the lips and face folds. Clean and dry the ears regularly, wipe the ear tips after meals, trim nails and brush the teeth.

Training a Basset Hound

The AKC says Bassets are very independent and training can be a challenge, because scent hounds were bred to follow a track without distraction. They can seem aloof, but they can be trained; it takes time, consistency and persistence, with treats and early socialization.

Keep sessions short and food-based, and use their nose with find-it games. House training may take longer than with other breeds. Teach a reliable leave-it, because a Basset at nose height will find every dropped snack.

Are Basset Hounds good with kids and other pets?

Usually, yes. The AKC rates the Basset five out of five with young children and with other dogs, and their calm, patient nature suits family life. Supervise toddlers, who can trip over a low, heavy dog, and teach children not to pull the long ears.

Bred to work in packs, most Bassets enjoy another dog at home. Many live peacefully with cats, but small pets such as rabbits should be kept safely apart from a scent hound.

What a Basset Hound needs at home

Useful kit includes a soft brush or shedding tool, nail clippers, an ear cleaner your vet suggests, drool cloths, a supportive bed, a harness and leash, and narrow bowls or a snood to keep ears clean at mealtimes. Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats feed the nose and slow eating.

Ramps help with cars and furniture. Keep trash and food out of reach. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Basset home and ask about ear care, eye checks and a target weight.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.