Breed Information:The Basset Hound has a short, shiny coat, and while there are no specifications on coloration, they usually have a white base with reddish-colored markings and or red and black markings on white, and occasionally lemon and white. The skin of the Basset Hound is loose and hangs in folds behind the head. They have long ears that will meet past the end of the nose if pulled forward, sad-looking eyes and lips that hang down past the lower jaw. The Basset Hound also has a very deep chest that extends past his front legs, and a pronounced dewlap.Size:Dogs – Height: 12-15 inches/Weight: 50-65 poundsBitches – Height: 11-14 inches/Weight: 45-60 poundsBreed Specific Health Issues:The only problems usually associated with Basset Hounds are the strain on their legs and back because of their very long body and very short legs. These problems can be kept to a minimum if a proper diet is fed – allowing a Basset Hound to become overweight will put unnecessary strain on their bodies.Life Expectancy:Basset Hounds average life span is around 10 to 12 years.Grooming Requirements:The Basset Hound’s coat is very easy to care for, needing only the occasional, once weekly, grooming with a stiff brush. Bassets do shed year-round, but not as heavily as other breeds. Also, due to the long-hanging ears, cleaning inside the ears is very important to keep them clean.

Disposition:

Because of their outstanding sense of smell, it can be hard to get the attention of even the most well-trained Basset Hound – often smells are more interesting than their owners! Basset Hounds are gentle, sweet, and calm dogs who do very well in families with children.

As with all dogs, training and socialization should start as early as possible, but Basset Hounds get along with almost anyone, though they should be watched around small animals due to their prey drive. Bassets can be difficult to potty train, but will eventually get it with plenty of positive reinforcement.

Activity Level:

Basset Hounds like plenty of exercise, and could even outlast children in play. They should be discouraged from jumping, especially down from high places such as the sofa, as this can stress their front legs and cause problems later in life.

Because Basset Hounds mainly like to sleep while indoors, they would do well in an apartment, and do not necessarily need a backyard/garden, as long as they get plenty of exercise in other ways.