Big hound. Description of the Basset Hound breed, its character. How many times to wash and comb

Short, well-fed and clumsy... Representatives of the Basset Hound breed never cease to amaze the owner with their talents and unclaimed, but unforgotten hunting instincts. Despite his outward appearance, he is an active and passionate dog, and also a devoted pet and intellectual of the dog world.

The Basset Hound comes from Great Britain and fits perfectly into the rest of the world's idea of ​​Her Majesty's subjects. Behind the mask of lazy aristocracy and a sad look at the whole world hide the qualities of a hunting hound, a sharp mind, and a peculiar sense of humor. The dog demands attention and respect from its owner, in exchange for which it will become an excellent companion for almost everyone.

In the 17th–18th centuries, when this breed was finally formed and branched off from other hounds, the word “bas” was used to refer to all short dogs, “set” meant planted, and “hound” meant an English hound dog. Thus, the basset-hound is a low-set hound.

Description of the breed

These are short, strong dogs with a wide chest and back, short legs, short smooth hair, eternally sad eyes and hanging long ears that can cover the entire muzzle. The length of the body must exceed the height. Folds of skin are allowed on the paws, but there should not be too many of them. This breed has a peculiar lip structure - the upper one should hang freely, overlapping the lower jaw, which makes the dog constantly slobbering.

The modern breed standard describes these dogs as follows.

• Weight . On average 23-30 kg. Males are slightly larger and heavier. Their weight can reach 34 kg.
• Height at withers. Up to 38 cm for “boys” and 36 cm for “girls”. Dogs taller than 38.5 cm are considered not to meet breed requirements.
• Color. The coat is often black and white or white with shades of brown (from red to lemon). Tricolor variations are not uncommon. The standard allows any color found among hounds.
• Lifespan. 10-15 years. This is average for a dog of this size.
• Character. Friendly, approachable towards people, non-aggressive. The hunting background makes itself felt in curiosity and a love of tracking and searching, but on the playground the basset will rather communicate with a fellow dog than with dogs of other breeds. They cannot be called phlegmatic, but Bassets are so self-possessed that parents often have to protect the dog from a small child, and not vice versa. But this is not a nanny dog, and the basset will get along better with children older than five or six years.
• Intelligence. Basset hounds have it at their best. They have a good memory and, due to their high socialization, this breed is highly trainable. But their sharp mind and self-esteem can also play against the owner: sensing weakness, the Basset may try to manipulate the person. Before executing a command, the dog will make his own decision whether to carry it out or not.
• Security and guard potential. This breed was bred for hunting, not protection. Therefore, a basset hound may react to an uninvited guest, but it will not tear its throat or get into a fight for the sake of the owner’s property.

According to the international classification, this is a companion dog. But practice shows that it is not for everyone. The hunting background makes physical activity and low-intensity but sufficient walks mandatory. And a proud, willful character does not make training tasks easier. “If you need an owner, get a basset,” experienced owners joke.
A dog is suitable if you:

• you do not lead a very active lifestyle, but are not a homebody either;
• patient, restrained and stubborn;
• have a family;
• have children older than toddlers;
• be calm about the fact that the apartment will be constantly smeared with the dog’s saliva.

Consider other breeds if you:

• an athlete or traveler who spends most of his life away from home;
• limited in walking due to health reasons;
• look for a guard and protector dog;
• pedantic and obsessed with cleanliness.
• you dream of a perfectly trained dog that listens at a glance.

Origin history and interesting facts

The history of the Basset Hound breed dates back to the Middle Ages. With the development of feudal society, hunting gradually turned from a trade into a refined pastime of the nobility, for which it became fashionable to keep and breed special hounds. By the 17th century in France and Great Britain, where basset dogs were very popular, there were up to 12 species. Each kennel owner sought to breed his own subspecies. These dogs differed both in appearance and in specialization. The Basset Hound's ancestors were used at the time both for hunting small game and for searching for truffles.

The Great French Revolution turned out to be a social turning point not only for the French, but also for the basset population in France. Dogs were associated with the ruling class, and the rebellious masses destroyed them along with their owners. It helped that, along with the “democratization” of society, hunting on foot became widely popular, accessible to more people. For her, slow but tireless and never lost track, the Basset Hound was the ideal dog. But most varieties of the breed were lost.

The famous Basset Hounds were bred in England already in the 19th century. The breed became more massive, the ears became longer, and wrinkles appeared. Documented selection of the breed began there in 1870. At the end of the 19th century, the breed standard was approved, the latest additions to which were made in 2010.

Varieties

The current Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard does not provide for division within the breed. Rather, Basset Hounds themselves belong to a large family descended from the hounds, which also includes the following varieties.

• Artesian-Norman Basset.“Ancestor” of modern Basset Hounds. It differs from its relatives in having more curved limbs and much more active behavior. The color is orange-white or orange with brown and white.
• Vendéan Basset Griffon. The coat is slightly longer and coarser. The color, in addition to the usual two or three colors, can be pure white.
• Blue Gascony Basset. A peculiar color with different shades of gray.
• Red Breton Basset. The color includes all shades of red.

Preparing to welcome a puppy

If you are planning to have a basset hound in your apartment, prepare the housing for its arrival.

• Personal place. Buy a bed and decide where it will be located. The place should not be in a draft, damp or near heating devices.
• Bowls and toys. Buy dishes for water and food and a reducible stand for it, toys so that the puppy can scratch his teething teeth.
• Walking accessories. Be sure to buy a leash and collar. It is better to attach a sign with the owner’s contact information to the collar in advance - even a fairly old basset can get carried away by the rut and run away, ignoring commands. Puppies are only walked on a leash.
• Safety. Remove electrical cables and small objects that the puppy can chew from places within reach of the puppy.
• Carpets and coverings. The floor in the apartment should not be slippery, but if possible, it is worth removing the carpets so that the puppy, who is not yet toilet trained, does not ruin them.

Basic care

In the first months in a new home, the puppy needs increased attention from the owner, because on the one hand, this is a period of active growth and character formation, on the other, the establishment of relationships with humans and the basic socialization of the dog.

In general, the breed is unpretentious in maintenance. You can brush your dog once a week. Bath once a month using a special shampoo. It is important that water does not collect in the animal’s ears during bathing. You need to clean your ears with a cotton pad using a special solution. Since the breed is short-haired, shedding does not cause any particular problems, but during this period it is better to comb your pet daily or every other day in order to promptly remove lost hairs.

Please note that in the first six months it is very important not to injure the puppy's front paws, which bear a lot of stress. At this age, they should not slip, jump off objects or go down stairs. If you live in a multi-story building without an elevator, you will have to carry the puppy for a walk in your arms.

Nutrition

The breed is prone to gaining excess weight, so it is important to feed your pet in a balanced manner, calculating calorie content based on its physical activity and age.

For the first seven to ten days, the puppy should be fed the same food that he ate from the breeder. Then meat, dairy products, and quail eggs are added to the diet. It is important for puppies, especially in winter, to get enough vitamin D from their food. It is better to consult a veterinarian on how to properly introduce it into their diet.

Small puppies eat up to six times a day. The number of feedings is reduced as the dog grows. After nine months, the dog is fed twice a day. For adult dogs, fasting days are often practiced once a week or two. Basset hounds are virtuosos of cunning and begging. It is almost impossible to refuse these sad faces, but it is necessary for their health.

The pet’s diet can be based on ready-made food, or on natural food. Some owners prefer to give dry food at one feeding and natural food at another. When choosing factory-made food, give preference to premium products, the main part of which is meat.

If you decide to cook for your dog yourself, it is important to include in its menu:

• lean meat;
• fish;
• offal;
• vegetables and fruits (carrots, pumpkin, apples, etc.);
• eggs;
• porridge.

Wheat, barley and pearl barley grains, which can cause problems with peristalsis in the Basset, are excluded. Remember, porridge cannot be the basis of your diet.

Basset hounds have a sensitive stomach; they absolutely cannot eat spicy, salty, smoked or fatty foods. You should not give your dog tubular bones or fish with bones. The best indicator of proper nutrition is the animal’s healthy coat and skin and its active behavior.

Training

Contrary to the generally recognized high intelligence of the breed, Basset Hounds are difficult to train. The hunting past and specific character make itself felt. At the same time, experts believe that Bassets have an excellent memory and they remember commands immediately and for the rest of their lives, but before performing them, these self-confident Britons think every time whether it is worth obeying, and do not always make a decision in favor of the person.

You need to start raising a puppy from the first day, once and for all establishing the rules of behavior at home. It is impossible to deviate from the declared taboos in the case of a basset hound, because he will remember every weakness and will try to use it.

Training begins after three months, when the puppy can already walk outside. At first - in the format of active games, gradually moving on to studying commands. You can start teaching the basic commands “Come” and “Fu” at home, calling the puppy to eat or demanding that he stop chewing his slipper. Bassets are very stubborn and have their own ideas about the need for training, so be prepared to be imaginative and creative in choosing your pet's motivation.

A hunter in a Basset Hound can wake up at any minute, and during the rut, even a relatively well-mannered pet can ignore any commands. It is almost impossible to achieve ideal training for this breed at home, but teaching your pet basic commands is simply necessary. Try to find an opportunity to undergo training with professionals together with your dog.

Diseases and treatment

The Basset Hound lives for more than ten years, which indicates the fairly good health of the breed. But due to their body structure, these dogs have a number of breed risks. A body that is disproportionately long in relation to the legs is a potential threat for developmental disorders or age-related problems with the musculoskeletal system. Possible disorders in the shoulder joints, curvature of the radial bones in case of injury or improper loads at a young age, injuries to the kneecaps.

Representatives of the breed often suffer from such pathologies.

• Dysplasia of the hip or elbow joint. A developmental pathology that is diagnosed only after the formation of the skeleton is complete. Manifested by pain when moving and lameness. If detected early, it can be treated with medication. In advanced cases, surgical intervention is necessary.
• Panostitis. Inflammatory disease leading to lameness. Puppies and young animals under two years of age are at risk. Treated with medication.
• Von Willebrand's disease. A hereditary pathology in which blood clotting is reduced.
• Ophthalmological diseases. Glaucoma, cataracts, eyelid deformation, conjunctivitis are caused by loose eyelid skin, which protects the eye less well.
• Otitis. An ear disease typical of similar long-eared breeds.
• Volvulus of the stomach or intestines. It happens due to pathology of the ligaments that support the internal organs.
• Allergy. A reaction to both food and plants is possible.
• Skin diseases. Dermatitis, seborrhea, dysfunction of the sebaceous glands.

To avoid a significant number of the above-mentioned diseases, control over the animal’s diet, regular examinations of the skin, ears and eyes, as well as medical examinations with a veterinarian every six months will help.

Vaccinations

• carnivore plague;
• parvovirus enteritis;
• infectious hepatitis;
• leptospirosis;
• parainfluenza;
• rabies;
• coronavirus;
• trichophytosis.

TOP nicknames

When choosing a name for your pet, remember that it should be simple, without complex combinations of sounds that are inconsistent with commands. It is better to come up with a name with the whole family. You can draw inspiration from the English origin of the breed, its antiquity and behavioral characteristics.

Examples of nicknames for male dogs:

• Parker;
• Willie;
• Casper;
• Cooper;
• Lars;
• Mason;
• Martin;
• Butch;
• Eustace;
• Nils;
• Rufus;
• Silver.

Examples of nicknames for bitches:

• Asti;
• Alma;
• Wilma;
• Gladys;
• Gracie;
• Lola;
• Lizzie;
• Krista;
• Martha;
• Rhonda;
• Daisy;
• Jessica;
• Basya;
• Elma;

Photo review

Looking at the photo of representatives of the Basset Hound breed, it is difficult to believe that these are hunting hounds that have not lost their liveliness of character and spirit of adventurism in their status as companions.

Cost and where to buy

It is better to purchase a Basset Hound puppy from professional breeders or from a breeding kennel. Decide in advance for what purpose you are buying a dog. If we are talking about a pet for the soul, then a pet-class puppy is suitable, which, due to some highly specialized defects, is not suitable for exhibitions and breeding, but is otherwise healthy and fully corresponds to the characteristics of the breed. If you are planning to get into dog breeding seriously, you need to look for a show or breed class puppy with an excellent pedigree and from titled parents. Such puppies are often ordered in advance of planned matings.

For breeding, experts recommend choosing a high-quality show or breeding-class bitch, since it is easier to find a suitable male for mating. It is recommended to breed Basset Hounds for the first time after two years (on the bitch’s third heat), when the dog’s body has finally formed and gained strength to reproduce healthy offspring. Pregnancy lasts about two months, and birth occurs between 56 and 67 days.

The nuances of choosing a puppy

To purchase a purebred puppy, you should collect information in advance about the breeders and potential parents of the pet, and inquire about the health and career of previous litters. If possible, go to a breed exhibition where you can meet experienced owners of dogs of this breed.

Please pay attention to the conditions in which dogs are kept. Puppies must be clean and well-fed, without rashes, scratches or bites on the skin, with clean eyes and ears. The belly should be soft, without compactions, the tail should be without kinks, the paws should be straight and thick. Kids should be active, mobile, and not shy.

Prices

On average, a basset hound puppy in Moscow costs from 10 to 30 thousand rubles. (Data as of January 2018). The price may vary depending on the region and pedigree. Private individuals offer puppies cheaper than kennels, but such dogs are not immune from problems in the pedigree, which then turn into problems with the pet’s health or behavior.

Nurseries

The Basset Hound breed is not the most common in Russia and the post-Soviet space, but there are kennels in many large cities and regional centers:

• "Kolani" (Moscow)- bassetkolani.ya.ru;
• "North-West Major" (St. Petersburg)- http://north-west-major.ru;
• MOY LASKOVIY I NEZHNIY ZVER’ (Kyiv) - http://www.basset-hound.com.ua;
• "Canice Hound" (Minsk)- http://basset-hound.narod.ru.

Before buying a pet, you need to assess your financial capabilities. A dog requires expenses not only for food, but also for grooming products, vaccinations, and visits to the veterinarian.

It may be hard to believe, but the Basset Hound breed is popularly known as the clown. Beginners will be confused as to how this dog with endless melancholy and sadness in his eyes can be associated with a circus performer. Ears dragging along the floor, raised eyebrows, a heavy and sad look - all this is a sham, the true indicator of Basset's mood is his tail. Any Basset Hound owner will confirm that his pet is active, mobile and cheerful around the clock. Why a dog's appearance conflicts with its temperament is a mystery that can only be partially solved.

Before delving into the story, there are a few things to consider about the Basset-Hound name. All small dogs living in France in the 17th–18th centuries were called “Bas” - low, part of the word “Set” is translated as planted. English hound dogs were called Hound. Hence, Basset-Hound translates to low-set hound. Further, the term “Hound” is usually associated with competitions in running speed. In the case of the Basset, the concept refers to the dog's ability to chase and drive prey. It is known that the four-legged animals were used to search for truffles, drive large and small game, and if the Basset is trained to hunt a wolf, then it will calmly pass by a hare.

This is interesting! Despite the fact that Basset Hounds hunted in groups, each dog followed the chosen trail and did not succumb to the “pack excitement.”

The first ancestors of the Bassets are considered to be the Saint-Huberts, an extinct hound dog that lived in France. The theory was questioned after the discovery of records about the ancestor breed. Sources testified that Saint-Huberts were exclusively white in color. However, surviving records and works of art confirm that the breed included black and tricolor representatives. In books devoted to cynology, descriptions of two types of Bassets are also preserved - artesian and Flemish. The modern Basset Hound originated from the Artesian line. The Flemish species was most likely mixed with terriers, resulting in the Dachshunds.

This is interesting! The Basset Hound is not only the slowest hound in the world, this breed also boasts the longest ears. If you pull the dog's ears forward, they overlap the entire muzzle.

During the French Revolution (1789–1799) and before it, one of the main industries of people was hunting. Maintaining horses was unaffordable for ordinary people, so hunting on foot was constantly gaining popularity. Bassets were bred specifically for hunting on foot, which became the reason for their widespread popularity.

This is interesting! Louis Napoleon Bonaparte, President of the French Republic, later Emperor, was an ardent admirer of artesian-type Bassets.

The dogs, brought to Great Britain in 1876, fell into the caring hands of Everett Millais, who spared no effort, time and money to recognize and popularize Bassets in England. By the way, the first representatives of the breed came to Great Britain 10 years earlier, but ended up in the wrong hands and went unnoticed. Ser Everett was a passionate hunter, and he was interested in the chase, not the prey, and the man often returned “from the fields” empty-handed.

The highly appreciated working qualities of the dogs created an increasing demand for the breed. Sir Everett, on the advice of experienced breeders, crossed undersized hounds with the old-type Beagle, and this became the birth of the modern Basset Hound breed. Active factory work, which was undertaken by all and sundry, led to the appearance of more than 1,500 Basset Hounds in 6 years. A preliminary breed standard already existed, but the description was so vague that any dog ​​vaguely resembling Bassets participated in breeding work.

This is interesting! The first official breed club was registered in England in 1928.

The breed was soon mixed with Bloodhounds, larger hunting dogs. The bustling work of breeders gave birth to a completely new type of dog, which was very different from the Artesian type Basset. Dogs of the Ser Everett line are still considered the progenitors of the best representatives of the Basset Hound.

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In the 1880s, the breed began to be registered in the United States; dogs were entered into the register of the American Kennel Union (AKC). There was no less confusion with the establishment of the American line than in England. We can say with confidence that the Americans crossed Bassets and Beagles, which spoiled the latter.

Although the first American Bassets included famous progenitors of the breed such as Nemours and Fleur de Lis, decisive events occurred after the First World War. The English line, prized for its appearance, and the French line for hunting skills were mixed, giving rise to a new, American type of Basset Hound. The breed firmly established itself among the leaders of hunting dogs after the founding of the American Basset Hound Club and the registration of a description of the American type breed (1933).

Appearance

The modern Basset Hound conforms to the breed characteristics approved by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1988. It must be said that modern dogs are significantly different from their ancestors. French Basset Hounds were prized for their crooked front legs. Yes, you understood everything correctly, the more the dog’s limbs were curved, the more purebred it was considered. The ideal Basset was so low that his chest literally touched the ground.

Outcrossing with Bloodhound and Beagle, undertaken on the initiative of English breeders, made it possible to straighten the dog's front legs, but the question of the root cause of the pathology remains open. Modern representatives of Basset Hounds are prone to crooked front paws. Experts consider the following root causes:

• Improper nutrition of the bitch during pregnancy or in the early postpartum period.

• Crossing of individuals suffering from rickets at the stage of breed formation.

• Genetic defects associated with the development of the musculoskeletal system.

If you are wondering why the breeders made such sacrifices, why a taller and problem-free dog was not bred, then the answers are quite simple. A taller dog existed - the Beagle, but the breed was not distinguished by endurance. A fan of Basset Hounds, Fred Blaine compared the breed to a draft horse, and the Beagle to a racehorse, the difference is obvious.

Breed standard

The Basset Hound is considered the largest and heaviest of the Basset hounds. The size of an adult dog is quite impressive, height 33–38 cm, weight depends on gender - standard for males is from 23 to 29, females from 20 to 27 kg.

• Head– massive, rectangular. The forehead is high, flat, and goes into the back of the head with a noticeable bump. The transition to the muzzle is sloping. The skull is wider and shorter than the muzzle, the cheekbones are high, and the eye sockets are pronounced. The bridge of the nose and forehead are on parallel lines. The skin covering the muzzle is free and can be pulled back if desired.

• Teeth– smooth, large, strong, deep mouth. Scissor bite.

• Nose– pigmented in black or brown, depending on the color tone. The nostrils are wide and open. The size of the nose varies from medium to large and protrudes beyond the line of the lower jaw.

• Muzzle deep and evenly wide. The upper lip is free, completely covers the lower jaw and hangs down.

• Eyes– due to loose eyelids, the shape of the eyes is perceived as diamond-shaped. It is worth considering that the shape of the eyes is assessed when the dog is standing in a natural position. The color of the iris is preferably dark, but almost all colors in the brown palette are allowed; light eyes are considered a disadvantage.

• Ears– hanging down and tightly fitting to the cheeks, evenly narrow, thin, soft, flexible, low set.

• Body- strong, elongated. The neck is broad and strong, gracefully arched when at rest. The back is wide and level. The chest is neat, low, wide and convex. The ribs are rounded and elongated. The skin is loose, including on the stomach and decorating folds on the neck.

• Limbs– powerful, covered with a large amount of skin, collected in folds. The front legs go around the chest, in the lower part they come slightly closer together (in no case touching). The withers and shoulders are proportional. The hind legs are very muscular and strong, the croup muscles are elongated. The hind legs are also covered with loose skin, but the folds are not massive. The hands are very large and strong, the front ones are set straight or slightly apart, the rear ones are extremely straight. The dog's track must be complete. The pads are massive and separated.

• Tail– powerful, set high, tapering to the tip, carried high when working.

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Coat type and color

The guard hair is short and dense. There is a lot of debate about the harshness of wool. Initially, the Basset Hound was credited with a hard coat, but even among the early representatives of the breed there were many eminent champions with soft guard hair. The classic colors of the Basset Hound include:

• White black.
• White Red.
• White/brown.
• White/black/red.
• White/black/brown.
• Lemon – white/light brown (close to yellow).

Note! The breed standard allows unlimited color variations, but there is a caveat - the color and pattern must fit into the “classical framework” of hound dogs.

Character and training

The adorable puppy in the photo turns out to be a stubborn, touchy and very independent pet. The classic characteristics of the breed more than correspond to reality - Basset Hounds are proud, calm, clean, and a little aloof. Many owners agree with the catchphrase: “If you need an owner, get a Basset Hound.”

Basset lovers note gentleness, calmness and a complete lack of aggression as the key characteristics of the breed. Naturally, if a child grabs the dog’s ears or deliberately causes pain to the animal, then the docile nature will evaporate. The Basset Hound is not a nanny, he is a member of the family with the same rights as humans. It is also worth understanding that a dog with sad eyes is a mediocre guard. Undoubtedly, a four-legged pet will bark on the threshold, but rushing into battle to save property is the prerogative of guard dogs, not hounds.

The dog gets along well with other pets. Against the backdrop of an instinctive desire to form a pack, the Basset can be aggressive towards weaker relatives; most often, young males tend to dominate. The Basset is wary of strangers, but quickly softens when its owner is positive. The main indicator of a pet's mood is the tail; if it is raised high and does not move, the dog is alert.

In puppyhood, the ward should be led exclusively on a leash, firstly, the little Basset is quite timid, and secondly, the dog has a habit of ignoring the owner, carried away by the game. If you want to go off-leash in the future, socialization should come first. A growing four-legged animal will have a desire to chase anything that resembles prey, be it a cat, a mouse or a ferret. The puppy should have contact with cats as often as possible, under your supervision, of course. The cat is not in any danger, Bassets chase, but do not bite the prey, but the cat may not be so tolerant.

Note! Basset hounds hear perfectly, but ignore commands if they are carried away by the prey rut.

Many owners, having heard about the difficulty of training Bassets, initially raise the four-legged dog as a couch dog. This is completely wrong! An adult Basset Hound is strong, stubborn and weighs a lot. If the four-legged dog does not obey, an ordinary walk can end in failure. Training hounds is always more difficult than training working breeds. You will need much more time and patience, you will have to use tricks and find motivation. If you are not prepared for the difficulties of training a dog, the Basset Hound is not for you. It should be noted that the four-legged dog will stubbornly ignore orders that, in his opinion, are useless, so your task is to teach your ward basic commands and calling.

The Basset Hound has its pros and cons, but these dogs are the best at what they do - they can follow the scent for hours, without getting tired or stopping. Otherwise, the ward’s abilities will depend on the amount of time the owner invested in training. The breed is prone to calm, even apathetic behavior at home, but like any four-legged animal it needs exercise - walks and, if possible, coursing.

Note! Bassets don't have the agility or speed to boast of, but they are very good at digging, so if your pet wanders around the property, it's worth keeping an eye on him.

The Basset Hound adapts equally well to life in an apartment or a house with a fenced area. Dogs love to explore new areas, so even if your pet regularly walks in the yard, he needs to be taken to a park or walking area.

Basset Hound Photo | Dreamstime.com

basic information

Estimation of breed characteristics

Adaptability A definition that refers to how easily a dog can adapt to changes in life.
Shedding level Level and frequency of hair loss in an animal.
Level of tenderness The level and amount of tenderness and affection that a dog gives in return for attention to itself.
Need for exercise The dog's daily activity level.
Social need The required amount of contact between the dog and other animals, as well as people.
Apartment ratio A factor that determines the level of noise and other inconveniences that a dog can cause to owners in relation to the size of the apartment to the size of the dog.
Grooming The number of baths, brushing, and the required number of professional grooming sessions required by the dog.
Friendliness in an unfamiliar environment Peculiarities of dog behavior in society with strangers or in unfamiliar surroundings.
Tendency to bark Tendency to bark and its frequency and volume.
Health issues The dog's potential health status.
Territoriality A dog's tendency to protect its owner's home, yard, or even car.
Friendly to cats Tendency towards tolerance towards cats and reduced expression of hunting instincts.
Intelligence The dog’s ability to think and solve emerging difficulties (not to be confused with learning ability!).
Education and training The level of difficulty in training a dog to perform certain actions.
Child Friendly A factor that determines how friendly a dog is to children, whether it likes to play with them and tolerate some children's pranks.
Game activity The concept is defined by its very name, and, as a rule, occurs in almost all dogs.
Observation A dog's ability to detect the presence of a stranger in its territory.
Friendly to other dogs The dog's tendency to find a common language with its other relatives.

Brief description of the breed

It is believed that basset hound originated in the seventh century in the monastery of St. Hubert, located in the Forest of Arden. According to legend, Monk Hubert, who is now considered the patron saint of hunters, spent a lot of time developing a new breed of dogs. It later became known as the Bloodhound and was especially prized in France and England. One of the varieties of Bloodhound was a short-legged, slow dog that was favored by hunters. These dogs did an excellent job of hunting small game, rabbits and hares. It was from these dogs that the Basset Hound most likely originated.

Pros of the breed

• Has an unusual appearance;
• Strongly attached to the owner;
• Friendly towards people around him;
• Patient with children;
• Tolerant of other dogs;
• Doesn't need a lot of exercise, but loves walks;
• Incredibly agile;
• It is easy to care for.

Cons of the breed

• Needs an understanding owner;
• By nature stubborn and headstrong;
• Sometimes naughty;
• Has a habit of running away;
• Loves to bark;
• Not amenable to standard training;
• Has a tendency to gain excess weight.

The Basset Hound has long been particularly popular. He can often be found in various commercials, as well as in the homes and lawns of many families who want to have a good and loyal four-legged friend. Its noble appearance and loyal character make this dog an excellent pet for almost any family.

Representatives of this breed have a very developed sense of smell. This is not strange, because the dog was bred for hunting. In this regard, basset hounds can only compete with sniffer dogs. The rest are unlikely to be able to compete with them.

Since Basset Hounds were originally bred as dogs, they have retained the corresponding natural instinct, so they always strive to chase potential prey. The peculiarities of the skin, as well as long ears that hang down to the ground, give the basset an excellent opportunity to smell prey and, accordingly, catch up with it. It is for these qualities that basset hounds are valued by hunters.

Because the basset's legs are short, they are not able to move as quickly as other large dogs. But for a hunter this is a very good feature, because the animal can sneak up on prey unnoticed. Another feature of the dog that is very convenient for hunter owners is its long tail with a white tip. It allows you to see the dog even when it is in tall grass.

While at home, the basset will not be particularly active; he is lazy in this regard. The pet is devoted to its family, very pleasant to talk to and friendly. Bassets do not like to be alone for long periods of time. If your pet is left alone for a long time, he will certainly whine and even howl.

Basset hounds are lovers of food, but at home they do not show much desire for active activities. This causes obesity, which, in turn, leads to problems with the musculoskeletal system.

Bassets are very hardy. You can safely go on long walks with them, especially since this will have a positive effect on the dog’s health and prevent weight gain. When walking with your pet, do not forget that the basset is a hunting dog, so it loves to track. Don't walk without a leash, otherwise you risk your pet chasing a potential trophy.

The Basset Hound has a unique voice of its kind. We can say that these dogs do not bark, but howl. They are also capable of muttering in a peculiar way, thus attracting attention to themselves, or begging for food. Thanks to this peculiar behavior, they manage to beg many delicacies from the owner’s table that are not very useful for the dog. Don't follow your pet's lead. Moreover, many products from the owner’s table can cause serious harm to the animal.

Basset Hounds are generally calm and even-tempered, and they get along well with children as well as pets. The main drawback of this breed is the tendency to drool and howl when lonely or anxious. If you are willing to tolerate such oddities, then the basset will become an unsurpassed pet and simply an excellent companion dog.

Appearance

The name of the breed comes from the French word "bass", which means low. It is because of the short stature that this name appeared. The small stature is caused by the physiology of the animal: it has a fairly heavy skeleton and a muscular body. The average weight of a dog is about 23 – 30 kilograms. But height, as a rule, is about 33 – 38 centimeters. Basset Hounds are large dogs with short paws. The dog's short stature is the result of dwarfism, which doctors call achondroplasia. But this is not a disease that should be tried to be cured. These sizes have become the breed standard and significantly distinguish these dogs from other relatives.

Basset Hounds have a smooth, short coat that is relatively easy to maintain. Most Basset Hounds have a tri-color coat consisting of patches of black, brown and white. This color is considered classic. True, there are Basset Hounds with red spots on a white background, as well as with white spots on a red background, and a completely red color with white or lemon-colored paws. Sometimes gray basset hounds are also found. This color is not desirable, since most often the cause of non-standard color is a genetic disease. You should not follow the lead of a dog breeder who will allegedly offer you a puppy with a unique color.

The Basset Hound has a rounded skull, and a large amount of skin on the front of the head. This somewhat flabby skin makes the basset hound look sad, which, according to many, adds a special charm to the animal.

Basset hound photo:

Photos of Basset Hound dogs | Dreamstime.com

Origin story

Legends say that basset dogs come from Constantinople, from where they came to Europe during the Crusades. Whether this is true or not, no one knows. The British believe that the Basset is a very old breed that has already been known in England since the 16th century. They consider Shakespeare’s description of a summer night to be proof of this: “My hounds, painted the color of sand, have powerful dewlaps. And they sweep away the early dew with their heads down. Their knees are bent and their stomachs are sagging. They follow the trail slowly, but their joint barking sounds like a bell.” Although this description fits the Basset Hound, some dog trainers argue that the characteristics described may also correspond to the Southern Hound. Of course, this dilemma is unsolvable because no one can actually know who Shakespeare was writing about.

In fact, the Basset Hound does not come from England at all, but from France, although it was the British who bred the breed and gave it its name, translated from French. These dogs became truly popular thanks to the Americans. The Basset Hound is considered a descendant of two French breeds: the now defunct Basset d'Artois and the Artesian-Normandy Basset. In 1874, British breeders brought a group of these dogs from France to their domain. As a result of mating, a transitional breed was obtained, which was later crossed with the Bloodhound. This was the first artificial insemination in history, given the large difference in height. It was from the Bloodhound that the Basset adopted its main characteristics: an excellent sense of smell, a strongly prominent skull, freely hanging and folded skin. From that time on, it was prohibited to export dogs, and the breeding of the Basset Hound in England developed independently.

In 1880, the Basset Hound was first shown at an exhibition in Wolverhampton, and in 1883 the first Basset Hound Club was created. The wife of King Edward VII, Alexandra, whose dogs also took part in exhibitions, became a big fan of this breed. One of them even received an award at a prestigious exhibition in 1909.

In Europe until the end of the 60s of the twentieth century, the breed remained heterogeneous. It even happened that dogs from the same litter could have completely different anatomical characteristics: the height at the withers ranged from 23-30 cm, and sometimes even reached 36 cm. This was not the only difference, because the dogs also differed in their appearance . The first example of the breed was presented only in 1955. This was a significant turning point for the development of the breed. The main characteristics of the breed were approved, which gave direction to the work of breeders who, after many years of work, were able to develop the Basset Hound that is familiar to us today, that is, a dog with an elongated body, powerful bones and short, strong legs. Compared to its ancestors, the modern basset has much more skin, as well as significantly more weight.

Surprisingly, this originally French breed returned to France only in 1955 and remains quite rare to this day. In this country, basset dogs are owned, for the most part, by amateurs, fans of the breed, which of course does not contribute to the development of the population. Basset dogs are extremely popular in England, but in the States they are breaking all popularity records. In France, about 800-1000 offspring are registered annually, in England - 2500-3000 individuals, but in the States there are more than 20,000 individuals!

Basset Hound Personality

A languid look, long ears and small stature sometimes make many people feel sorry for basset dogs, as they look sad. In fact, these are very cheerful dogs with a calm character. They get along well with children and pets. All these qualities make the Basset Hound a good companion dog. It's especially fun to watch a basset hound playing with children - it's quite a spectacle! You can be sure that your pet will start barking when he sees a stranger approaching, but as soon as he realizes that it is your friend, he will greet him cheerfully.

The Basset Hound is a dog with a short, waterproof coat that is very easy to groom. Weekly brushing will help keep the constantly shedding coat under control. Since Basset Hounds have long and drooping ears, this is a common cause of various ear diseases. Weekly ear cleaning will prevent all this. The folds on the basset's face also require regular wiping.

Training and education

Training a Basset Hound can be a major challenge, especially for an untrained dog owner. Some people believe that the reason for this is the dog's low intelligence, but this is not true. This is all due to the independent nature of the basset, due to which these dogs are often not very receptive to training. In addition, dogs of this breed have no desire to please people, which is also one of the reasons that complicates the training process. The Basset Hound is very sensitive to different odors. If a pet smells some interesting aroma, it will definitely try to follow it. In such situations, classes are out of the question. Dogs of this breed are best kept in a fenced area.

Health and illness

The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is 12 to 15 years. Major health problems include: allergies, back and joint problems, bloating, heart disease, skin diseases, diseases of the ears, eyelids and eyelashes, glaucoma, intervertebral disc diseases, von Willebrand disease. Let us note that the basset hound is considered to be a healthy dog, but if the animal is poorly cared for, then diseases will not take long to appear. You need to pay special attention to your ears. If this is not done, otitis media will occur. Eyes also require care. They need to be wiped daily to remove dirt and dust that can accumulate under the skin around the eyes and lead to infectious diseases.

Some interesting facts

• The dog of detective Columbo, the hero of the well-known detective series, was a basset hound. Her look, full of indifference, charmed many viewers who became interested in the breed thanks to the series.
• Like all hounds, basset hounds are difficult to train and educate.
• The basset's long ears play an important role for the animal. They “lift” odors from the ground and direct them to the dog’s nose.
• The constant shedding of the Basset Hound obliges the owner to brush the dog daily.
• Basset wool has an oily coat that can have a specific smell. Don't try to wash away this natural defense.
• Basset Hounds can drool.
• If a basset hound catches a scent, it may follow it.
• It is best to train a Basset in a special class.
• The Basset, like all hounds, does not accept harsh training methods. Please be patient.
• Basset Hounds often suffer from increased gas production. If you suspect such a problem, you should contact your veterinarian.
• Due to the nature of the Basset's skin, these dogs are prone to salivation, especially when eating and drinking. If this is not entirely suitable for you, then it is better not to buy a puppy of this breed.
• The real problem for Basset Hounds is obesity. They love to eat well, so they tend to overeat. If the dog is overweight, problems with the musculoskeletal system will develop. The feeding regime must be organized correctly, guided by the advice of a veterinarian, and not the recommendations on the packaging of dog food.
• Since these dogs are prone to bloating, which in some cases can be fatal, they need to be fed 3 small meals a day. After eating, you need to observe the dog to make sure everything is fine.
• The Basset Hound's long ears require special care. They need to be carefully monitored, washed on time and treated with a special solution.
• Even if your basset hound seems strong and healthy to you, it is still better to avoid jumping and, when traveling in the car, hold it in your arms and thus fix the spine.
• Two-thirds of the basset's weight is in the front part of the body. This practically prevents the dog from swimming.

The Basset Hound is known as the clown of the dog world. He will definitely amuse you. The Basset Hound is a wonderful pet.

	Training
	Mind
	Shedding
	Guard qualities
	Security qualities
	Popularity
	Size
	Agility
	Attitude towards children

Temperament

The Basset Hound is known as the clown of the dog world. He will definitely amuse you. The Basset Hound is a wonderful pet. He is a sociable, easy-going, loyal and loving dog. The Basset Hound is great with children and other dogs and is friendly towards strangers. He loves being part of the family: driving with you, watching TV and playing in the yard. The Basset Hound is a pack dog and will do very poorly if left alone for long periods of time.

If there are no people near him, then he needs another dog or cat for company. The Basset Hound is known for being stubborn and bossy. He likes to do things his own way. A Basset Hound may throw itself onto your lap when you least expect it, or even while you're sleeping. And although the Basset Hound was bred as a hunting dog, it often behaves like an overgrown toy dog. The Basset Hound must be kept on a leash or within a fenced area. Otherwise, he may simply follow the smell that interests him. And this can lead him to unpleasant situations. For example, he may end up on the roadway.

Photo: Basset hound Jeffrey - the longest ears in the world

This dog has the largest and widest nose. The Basset Hound holds the world record for longest ears. The Basset Hound was bred from Bloodhounds, known for their large, long ears. The Basset Hound is charming with its large, long ears and long body on short legs. The basset hound has such dense bones that it falls into the water like a stone. The density of his bones is such that with a height of 35 cm, he weighs the same as 55 cm. His front legs are so far apart from his back legs that they often have back problems.

Although the Basset Hound is not a very energetic dog, it can reach impressive speeds. The Basset Hound enjoys lazily lying around for hours, as well as long, leisurely walks. If you want to buy a Basset Hound, you should be aware and okay with the fact that they drool a lot. The Basset Hound loves to eat, so he will beg for food or even steal it at any opportunity. He doesn't even mind climbing on the table and licking plates or soup spilled on the table, and sometimes he may even snatch cookies from your child's hands. It is not safe for a Basset Hound to jump a lot, so Basset Hound owners should be prepared to help him onto a car or couch.

The Bassethout is a born hunter. This is how the Basset Hound was bred by French aristocrats to catch rabbits. Give this seemingly lazy dog ​​a whiff and the Basset Hound will instantly turn into a finely tuned stalking machine. They may look a little cartoonish, but all their qualities were bred specifically for this purpose. The Basset Hound is very well built: a wide chest, large paws - all this gives them great stability on rather uneven terrain. These large, adorable ears help the Basset Hound collect scents. As they follow the scent, their ears drag along the ground, picking up the scent and encouraging the dog to follow the scent. The Basset Hound has the 2nd best nose in the world after the Bloodhound. The Basset's nose is a precision instrument. It contains almost 20 million olfactory receptors. For comparison, humans have only 5 million. The Basset Hound is designed to sense all smells. Bassets have a wonderful, calm character and dog lovers adore them.

Training

The Basset Hound is one of the most difficult dog breeds to train. The Basset Hound learns new commands more slowly than almost all other breeds. The Basset is quite stubborn and has his own opinion on everything. If he doesn't want to do something, then they won't and won't. And if he wants, then you will not be able to keep him. You have to be super patient when training your Basset Hound. This dog is not for everyone. She is for an energetic, decisive and strong enough person who can cope with her character.

Officially, the Basset Hound is considered an English breed, but the homeland of its ancestors was still France. Since the Middle Ages, in the books and manuscripts of French historians, notes began to appear about squat dogs from the Artesian-Norman hound tribe, used for burrow hunting and searching for truffles. In written sources, the animals appeared under the name basset hounds and were depicted as short-legged dogs with massive bones. By the way, the characteristic short stature inherent in all modern representatives of this family was an elementary mutation, subsequently artificially fixed by breeders.

In the 17th century, basset breeding in France became widespread, as a result of which the breed expanded its list of “qualifications.” Now with short-legged dogs they went not only to burrow animals, but also to pheasants. It is clear that this was mainly a hunt on foot, since Bassets simply would not have been able to keep up with a horse, but they were excellent at wading through the thickets and diving under dead trees for prey. Around this stage, the stratification of the family of short greyhounds began. As a result: by the 18th century, in French kennels one could find 12 basset lines with different external and performance characteristics, some of which later “merged” into the so-called artesian-Norman type.

The English stage of the formation of the breed began in the 19th century, when the Artesian-Norman Basset crossed the English Channel. In Shakespeare’s homeland, the animals were immediately given “national flavor” by mating them with bloodhounds, which gave the dogs solidity and slight “folding” to their bodies, and their ears an impressive length. The offspring resulting from the cross were called Basset Hounds, and were presented at the Paris Exhibition in 1863.

About 20 years after the official announcement, Basset Hounds had their own club, and in 1887 they finally separated from other types of Basset Hounds through a standardization procedure. At the end of the 19th century, the breed was already well known in America, while these sad short-legged dogs appeared in Russian nurseries only in the late 70s of the 20th century.

Video: Basset Hound

Basset Hound breed standard

A basset hound stretched out on a rug gives the impression of a hulking woolly caterpillar, in which it is difficult to suspect a hunter. Nevertheless, the dog is perfectly adapted to chasing prey in rough terrain: Basset hounds’ short legs easily overcome the “traps” of uneven terrain, which other types of hounds cannot do.

The mournful expression of the muzzle, characteristic of representatives of this breed, is their exclusive exterior highlight. The Basset Hound can be peaceful, enthusiastic, angry, but all these mood changes will be accompanied by a single sad face.

One cannot ignore the long ears of the breed, hanging almost to the ground, reminiscent of drooping wings. When a Basset has gained sufficient speed, they flutter under the pressure of the wind, creating the illusion that the dog is about to take off.

The height of the Basset Hound at the withers, according to the standard, should be 33-38 cm. Dogs weigh from 18 to 29 kg.

Head

The Basset Hound's head is dome-shaped with a distinctly prominent nape, massive muzzle and moderate stop. The offended-sad expression of the muzzle, characteristic of the breed, is achieved due to elastic skin, forming small wrinkles under the eyes and at the eyebrows. In addition, dogs are characterized by quilling, when the lower jaw is blocked by a freely hanging upper lip.

Teeth and bite

The Basset Hound's teeth are strong, white, and set in a regular scissor bite.

Nose

Basset Hounds have prominent nostrils: large, wide open, often protruding beyond the line of the lips. The preferred color of the lobe is black, although brown and liver options are acceptable for animals with light fur.

Eyes

The Basset Hound's eyes are distinguished by their shallow set, oval shape and distinctly melancholy expression. Individuals with a dark brown shade of the iris are considered the reference, but for light-colored dogs a medium-brown tone is possible. A strict no to yellow and light brown eyes.

Ears

The Basset Hound's long, folded ears are set below eye level and hang down along the neck. The ear linen is thin to the touch and velvety.

Neck

The dog's elongated, thick neck has a distinct bend in the top line and a pronounced dewlap.

Frame

The body is elongated, voluminous, muscular, with a wide back and withers and croup located on the same line. The Basset Hound's chest is harmoniously developed, not narrow, and moderately deep. The belly line should be sufficiently tucked so as not to interfere with the animal when running.

Limbs

The dog's front legs are short, thick, with strong bones and small folds in the lower part. The shoulder blades are set at an angle of 45°, providing good reach in motion. Forearms slightly close at the top, but not interfering with the stride. Hind legs with fleshy thighs, good hocks and short, slightly wrinkled metatarsals. In addition, the Basset Hound has massive, arched paws, “set” on large pads. The breed moves smoothly, thanks to the good reach of the front legs and the springy push of the hind legs.

Tail

The strong, long tail of the Basset Hound has a slight bend without obvious curl (saber shape). A moving dog has its tail up.

Wool

The short body of the Basset Hound tightly covers the body without forming fringes.

Color

Theoretically, Basset Hounds can have any hound-like colors. In reality, dogs are most often tri-colored (for example, black and white with tan) and bi-colored (red and white).

Disqualifying faults

Basset hounds with developmental defects that call into question their breed are banned from participating in exhibitions and dog shows. For example, if a dog is oversized (above 38 cm), has long hair, or has a clear kozinets (protruding wrist joint), this is enough to exclude it from the list of competitors.

Basset hound photo

Basset Hound Personality

The Basset Hound, despite its amusing, distinctly clumsy appearance, is still agile, both in terms of physiology and intellectual indicators. Proud and proud, he not only reacts painfully to criticism and infringement of personal rights, but is also capable of developing and then putting into action a plan of small revenge on the one who angered him, so if one day you find a suspicious stain or pile on your favorite carpet, do not rush to be indignant . It is quite possible that the basset hound planted a pig on you to make up for yesterday's insult.

Representatives of this breed have their own views on life, which does not prevent them from being on good terms with their owners. Don't look at the sad face forever stuck to the dog's face. Inside, Basset Hounds are sociable and very cheerful creatures. For example, in a home environment, a dog behaves like a typical sybarite: it stuffs its belly with treats until it swells like a bubble, lies on the sofas, wrapped in its ears, and hangs around its owner’s feet, waiting for affection. In general, with all his appearance he shows that he knows a lot about pleasure.

As befits a real hound, the Basset Hound is absolutely not aggressive. Of course, if you try, you can throw any dog ​​off balance, but in general the breed will not grumble or bite. Moreover, the Basset Hound can tolerate other dogs and, much less often, cats. Naturally, no one will force patience to be applied to all animals without the exception of the Basset Hound. But if you introduce the “eared dog” to other representatives of the domestic fauna in advance, he will not terrorize them either.

Representatives of this breed categorically do not want to give up their favorite habits, preferring, as a compromise, to change the lifestyle of their owners. For example, all basset hounds are tightly “wired” for comfort, so if the pet has chosen a specific place in the apartment, it is almost impossible to move its refuge to another part of the home. Dogs are also not happy about solitude and loneliness, so if for some reason you didn’t take your basset hound with you, but he really wanted to, get ready for minor mischief. Eared cats love to lie on sofas, from the first months of life they almost reflexively climb onto the owner’s bed. Moreover, a secret passion for soft feather beds persists even among those individuals who, it would seem, have been weaned from this habit. Left the house for an hour? You can be sure that the basset hound will not miss the opportunity to use your absence to his advantage and relax on your own bed.

Education and training

Basset Hounds are sociable and funny dogs, but zealously protecting their own interests. For example, they love to adapt the learning process to their needs and will more than once try to break the rules of the game if something does not suit them. Accordingly, if you have decided to raise an obedient pet, then do not make exceptions while the puppy is small and defenseless. It's not that the basset is so pathologically stubborn, it's just that he's too smart not to try to negotiate some concessions for himself.

An experienced owner or a kennel club specialist should teach the dog the rules of behavior in the house and commands, although this does not mean that it is necessary to “pressure” the animal. On the contrary, try to look at the activities through the eyes of your pet, which will allow you to understand his desires and aspirations. With the right approach, Basset Hounds are good at any obedience discipline, as well as all sorts of dynamic competitions like agility. True, you shouldn’t hope for the breed’s impeccable performance. Still, basset hounds are not working dogs, and they quickly get bored with constant tugging. Consequently, you will have to be understanding of the fact that one day your ward will deliberately “not hear” the call or prohibition.

The best incentives in working with Basset Hounds were and remain tasty rewards. The main thing is to skillfully play on the breed’s tendency to gluttony and not overdo it. It is advisable not to use negative reinforcements at all. Don’t forget, the Basset Hound is touchy and will definitely respond to infringement of personal rights with some kind of harm. However, if the animal persists and deliberately causes mischief, it is not forbidden to lightly spank it with a twig. Traditional rolled up newspaper is not an option; Basset Hounds are literally thick-skinned creatures.

The duration of lessons for the breed should be minimal. The maximum that a basset hound can tolerate is 10 minutes, after which the dog will need an emotional “reboot.” In addition to standard training, Basset Hounds are taught to tolerate forced solitude. A pet left in an apartment for an hour or two should not frighten neighbors and passers-by with “opera arias.” It is clear that it will not be possible to achieve one hundred percent silence with this breed, but it is possible to reduce its talkativeness. From the first days after moving to a permanent place of residence, wean the puppy from “collecting” the owner’s things, which for basset hounds is something like a hobby. Remove all shoes from the eared prankster, even if they are old and should have been thrown away long ago. Don’t forget, the animal doesn’t see the difference between worn-out flip-flops and just bought Nikes, so he chews on them with the same passion.

Unlike its French ancestors, today's Basset Hound is not well suited to life in the yard, so its place is in the house. Special conditions for keeping a dog are not required, so you will have to buy for it all the same household items as for any apartment breed, that is, a bed, bowls for food and water, toys, a tray, a leash, a collar and other accessories.

Until six months, all movements of puppies around the house must be monitored. At this age, the short legs of Basset Hounds are fragile, unstable and are injured even by minor jumps, for example from a sofa. It is better to avoid stairs before 6 months of age, or go up and down them with your pet in your arms.

Hygiene

Basset Hounds shed in the fall and spring, but that doesn't mean you need to brush their short coat as often. You should massage your pet's skin and hair follicles with a soft brush, if not daily, then at least a couple of times a week. This, firstly, stimulates blood circulation in the deep layers of the skin, and secondly, improves the structure of the hair.

As for the dog smell, in Basset Hounds it only appears when the fur gets wet. Bassets, which are bathed at least twice a month, also exude the “aroma” of a mouton coat, but it is, as a rule, not too pronounced and does not irritate the sense of smell. By the way, “boys” and individuals with more folds always smell more intense.

In a situation where you want to minimize the dog “smell,” you can wash your basset hound with tar shampoo or add a little diluted acetic acid to the bath. If your dog smells too much of a nasty odor, there is a chance that he has contracted a fungus or his anal glands are clogged. The latter happens often with Basset Hounds. Have you noticed that your pet has started to walk backwards on the floor? Urgently take him to a specialist to clear the clogged passages, or do the procedure yourself, following step-by-step instructions.

Basset Hounds' fan-shaped ears require extra attention. Not only will you have to constantly monitor whether water has entered the ear canal when bathing your dog, you must set aside time for daily “inspection” of the ear funnel and ventilation. Total surveillance of a pet's face also takes place. Basset hounds are also slobbery creatures, and they have a specific way of lapping (splashes and puddles like a fountain in all directions), so you will have to be on duty near the dog with a towel willy-nilly. Basset hound eye hygiene consists mainly of wiping the mucous membrane with herbal infusions (tea, chamomile). Remember to take care of your dog's thick paws by cleaning them after walks with a damp cloth and trimming their nails about a couple times a month.

Toilet

There is no need to invent a special technique for training a basset hound to use a litter tray or newspaper. These cunning people cope with the traditional program. A separate question is how often they follow the rules. Of course, among the representatives of the Basset family there are real perfectionists who humbly do their “things” where they should be, but less than half are such goodies. The remaining 50% periodically mine the living space in which they live. There may be several reasons for this, ranging from the desire to annoy the owner and ending with the inability to wait with the toilet before going for a walk.

Many Basset Hounds do toilet mischief at a young age and, as they grow up, give it up completely. However, it is almost impossible to predict how a particular puppy will behave, since each Basset is a small, eared individual with a unique character and inclinations. Sometimes a dog may stubbornly refuse to go to the toilet during a walk, and when he comes home, he immediately leaves a “puddle” on the floor. This is already a protest that should not be allowed to happen again. If a dog comes into your home without relieving itself on the street, after five minutes take it for a walk again, and so on until the animal understands that it will not be left alone.

Walking and hunting

Basset hounds are real undercover agents. As soon as the dog leaves the boundaries of his own entrance, he instantly becomes active, transforming from a couch potato into a stubborn tracker. Be aware of this feature of the breed and do not let the animal off the leash near highways. The standard walking schedule for a basset hound is morning and evening, about an hour each. However, if it is possible to take your pet out more often, this is a big plus. A healthy basset will never refuse an extra walk, and unscheduled walks are especially useful for young individuals with unformed toilet etiquette.

Breeders advise taking Basset Hounds outdoors according to the number of feedings, that is, if a 4-month-old puppy empties his bowl five times a day, he should have the same number of trips outside. Your Basset Hound should be walked at a brisk but relaxed pace. Do not burden your dogs with marathon runs - the breed is not created for them. It’s better to walk along the street with your pet, play ball or catch, but without fanaticism.

The Basset Hound's coat is dense, with a good layer of undercoat, so the breed does not need warming blankets in cold weather. However, you can often see dogs in overalls. Such equipment is associated with the owner’s desire to protect the pet’s fur from dirt and splashes, which the Basset’s low belly attracts like a magnet. An important point: as befits a hunting dog, the Basset Hound likes to camouflage itself on the street. He does this in the traditional way, wallowing in carrion and even feces. This, by the way, is an additional reason to dress the long-eared lawless man in a blanket.

The main working qualification of Basset Hounds is blood trail hunting, which they did brilliantly in England. The dog’s strong, short legs were very useful here, as they helped to get through the dense thickets of bushes and rhizomes. Funny ears of the breed are also a useful “accessory”. The canvas fluttering as it ran “captured” the smell of game and brought it to the dog’s sense of smell.

As for Russian hunters, they prefer “full-size” hounds to basset hounds. This selectivity is explained by the fact that it is problematic for short-legged basset hounds to hunt in the middle zone. In particular, in snowy winters the dog will drown in snowdrifts. We should not forget that the optimal prey for the breed has always been rabbits, which are extremely rarely hunted in Russia. For this reason, the vast majority of domestic Basset Hounds are decorative dogs with developed, but not practical, hunting instincts.

Feeding

The Basset Hound is a fast-growing breed. In particular, at 3.5 months the puppy’s milk teeth are completely replaced by permanent ones, and its skeleton gradually finishes forming. Due to this feature, babies need to be fed nutritiously from the first months of life. The main dish for Basset Hound puppies is porridge with beef, in addition to which you can give low-fat kefir or fermented baked milk. The approximate serving size for a 2-month-old puppy is 100-200 g; for 3-4 month old individuals – 400 g; from 4 to 6 months. – 500-600 g.

It is customary to transfer 10-month-old Basset Hounds to two meals a day and an adult diet. At this age, the breed can eat almost anything, including offal, fish fillets, vegetables (except potatoes and legumes), fruits, cereal porridges, and, as a rare treat, brain bones. Supplements with calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D are another mandatory menu item for both adolescent and adult basset dogs: the load on the joints of the breed is colossal. Growing puppies may benefit from adding chondroitin and glucosamine supplements to their food to prevent them from growing up with bow legs. But basset hounds do not require a special gastronomic variety. If the dog is healthy and leads an active lifestyle, he will eat everything that smells edible. Experienced breeders recommend not to be touched by the dog’s brutal appetite, but to restrain it, because the breed gains weight masterfully.

Throwing food into a bowl and forgetting about the Basset Hound will not work: engrossed in the process, he will definitely rinse his ears in the bowl. To prevent this from happening, it is better to tie the “locators” with an elastic band at the back of the head. In addition, after a meal, a small amount of food remains in the Basset Hound's cheek pouches, which over time begins to smell unpleasant. You will have to get rid of the rotting remains manually: open the dog’s mouth and remove the decomposing pulp with a cloth.

Basset Hound Health and Diseases

Basset hounds are not such frail dogs, but they do have their weak points. For example, like any fold-eared breed, basset dogs are susceptible to otitis media. Von Willebrand's disease (blood clotting disorder) was inherited from their ancestors, just like an allergy to certain types of plants and a tendency to volvulus. The wide, plump paws of Basset Hounds are another vulnerable spot where abscesses, fungus, and interdigital cysts sometimes occur.

Panostitis is a rather unpleasant breed disease. The disease is accompanied by temporary lameness, which is why it is often confused with hip dysplasia and luxating patella. Panostitis occurs only in puppies, does not require surgical intervention, and by the age of two years it ceases to bother the animal. However, due to the difficulty of diagnosing basset hounds with this disease, they are mistakenly operated on, which does not have the best effect on the dog’s health.

How to choose a puppy

• If you didn’t manage to meet professional basset hound breeders at the exhibition, contact the breed club, where there are always addresses of reliable kennels.
• Inspect and compare a couple, or better yet, three litters at once.
• Gently feel the tail of the Basset Hound puppy you like. It should be smooth and elastic. Creases and curvatures are a significant defect that is worth bargaining for to bring down the price.
• Carefully examine the babies' paws. Preference is for a basset hound with thick, even legs, indicating solid bone structure.
• Unfold the puppy ears and look into the ear canal. There should be no shortness or sulfur in it, as well as an unpleasant odor.
• Turn your little basset hound over onto his back and examine his belly for excessive bloat or herniation.
• Observe how the puppy you are interested in behaves in the pack, whether it eats with appetite, and whether it is frightened by every rustle.

Basset hound puppies

Basset hound price

Buying a healthy, vaccinated and microchipped basset hound from a kennel will cost 25,000 - 40,000 rubles. More expensive options are the offspring of a pair of international champions, which in the future will claim the right to be called a show class - from 60,000 rubles and above.