From hunting little rabbits to becoming a fairly nonchalant family breed, a Basset Hound has had quite an interesting backstory. There’s a possibility that you, like most people, have had some idea about the breed, thanks to the famous cartoon character Droopy. The Basset Hound is a small sized dog breed which normally does fit in various kinds of home. Of course, if you’re one of those considering getting Droopy home, you will need to know a bit more than that. So here’s what you should know about the Basset Hound.
Basset Hound is a breed that loves to play with children, and was first bred for hunting small animals such as rabbits. Basset Hounds are extremely charming and patient, and tend to remain quite low-key. If you are curious about this breed, this article is where you will find everything you need to know about the Basset Hound.
Is The Basset Hound Popular In India?
The Basset Hound is a breed that is not very popular in India. People might know about them to some degree, especially the ones who are well read or are dog lovers. However, the popularity of the breed is growing, and has grown a lot over the last decade.
Availability
Availability of the Basset Hound in India is not really a concern, but you should know that there are three variations in which you will find this breed. While it won’t be the easiest breed to find, it certainly won’t be the most difficult one to get in India either. Basset Hounds can mostly be found in reputed breeders’ places.
Price Of A Basset Hound In India
Generally the price of a Basset Hound in India would give or take ₹30,000. The range often goes up to ₹35,000 as well. At the end of the day, how reputed the breeder is will play a small factor in the price.
See also: Dog Breeds’ Price List
Monthly Maintenance Cost
There is a common misconception that a Basset Hound does not really shed that much, However, that’s not really true even though it’s not the furriest of dog breeds. The Basset Hound actually does shed to a fairly good extent. Regular grooming should do the trick, but it’s just as important to make use of a soft brush. Your little pooch will also appreciate that more. Use it to remove the shedding short hair of Bassets once a week at least. Oh while you’re at it, don’t forget to trim their nails too. The monthly maintenance cost of a Basset Hound in India is between Rs. 3000 to Rs. 4000.
History And Popularity
When it comes to the history of this breed’s name, it’s pretty straightforward. Basset is actually a French word which means “Low” in English. Quite befitting, won’t you say? History states that France and Belgium are the countries where this little pooch was first bred. Due to the semblance that they share, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Basset Hound is said to have descended from the St. Hubert Hound, which is the ancestral breed of what we know today as the Bloodhound.
It was back in 1985 when the first evidence of this breed was found, that too in a book on hunting. La Venerie, which is what the illustrated book is called, was written by Jacques du Fouilloux. It is known that the book highlighted a good degree of similarities between the Basset Artésien Normand and the Basset Hound.
Back in those days, Basset Hounds were often synonymous with French aristocrats. Then, there was a transition in their role and reputation, as they started becoming more of hunting dogs. Although, it was the post French Revolution era when this change was witnessed, local common folks. In the mid-nineteenth century, the breed was taken to England and thereafter, it started growing in popularity. Much later in 1928, it made its way into the front cover of Time Magazine. What followed was the Basset Hound getting a much larger global popularity.
Characteristics
As their name suggests, height is not what a Basset Hound is known for, so don’t expect them to stretch beyond 15 inches. They usually weigh between 40 to 65 pounds. If you’re familiar with Hush Puppies, then you already know that long ears and the wrinkles above its eyes are kind of like trademark features. Although, they also feature heavy bones and powerful little legs. Then there are those massive paws, which used to be their reliable weapon of choice back in their days of hunting. A good way to identify them is also the fact that the tricolour of black, white and tan acts as an invariable part of their fur.
You can take a Basset Hound away from a hunt, but you can’t take the hunter out of them. That’s how deeply ingrained the characteristic is. This is only further accentuated by their remarkable ability of scenting. To put things in context, there’s only one other breed which can best a Basset Hound when it comes to the ability of smell. Just so you know, the bragging rights for the first place belongs to a Bloodhound. One of their not so adorable traits is that Basset Hounds can be stubborn when it comes to trails and barks in a loud and ringing voice.
Temperament Of The Basset Hound
Here’s a fun trivia – The slogan “We Invented Casual” by Hush Puppies is actually inspired by the temperament of the Basset Hound. They have a very chill and easy going vibe about them, which is also reflected in how patient they are. Even with kids, they are generally friendly. What’s amazing is how mindful and attentive they are, even when they might be calm. It is in fact these traits which give them their great reputation as watchdogs. Bassets love to spend time with other animals and tend to get very upset when and if left alone.
Lifespan
The Basset Hound lives for up to 12 to 13 years.
Are Basset Hounds Hypoallergenic
No, Basset Hounds are not hypoallergenic.
Average Litter Size
The average litter size of the Basset Hound is approximately six to nine puppies.
What Is The Basset Hound Like As A Puppy
The pupper Basset Hound is an independent breed and even lazy at times, which is odd considering their history of running and hunting. In their younger age, Basset Hounds display the ability to track without any sort of distraction. As a puppy, they sure are fast learners, but they cannot be trained easily. However, with a good amount of patience, persistence and consistency, the Basset Hound puppy does learn to follow commands. Treats and early socialization becomes vital for the development of the Basset Hound puppy.
Good Diet For Basset Hound
Let’s face it, they can be lazy bums. So one big meal won’t be good for them. So ideally, one should feed a Basset Hound dog two little meals a day, of between 1.5 cups to 2.5 cups of high quality dog food. However, the diet plan depends on the age and size of the Basset Hound, so it is always best to consult the vet on a regular basis.
Health Concerns
Basset Hounds are prone to certain health conditions. It is important for you to be aware of the concerns if you are planning on adopting a Basset Hound:
1. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV): Commonly known as gastric torsion or bloat, GDV is a pretty serious disease as it can be fatal. Deep chested dogs are the ones who have high chances of being affected. When Basset Hounds have only one meal in a day which is super heavy, GDV occurs. Drinking excessive water after meals and eating fast also contributes to it further. GDV occurs due to the inability to puke out or even burp, which becomes a problem with the excessive air in the dog’s stomach.
In this condition, the blood pressure drops, which results in a shock. You can figure out the symptoms of bloating if your Basset Hound has a distended abdomen and drools excessively or is extremely lethargic, restless and/or depressed.
2. Von Willebrand’s Disease: A hereditary health condition found in Basset Hounds. Von Willebrand’s Disease causes mild to severe bleeding. There are blood tests and necessary precautions that can be taken with the help of your vet, before any surgical procedure to cure this disease.
3. Panosteitis: Also known as Wandering or Transient Lameness, this condition is where a Basset Hound puppy has primary signs of lameness. Often, Panosteitis gets incorrectly diagnosed for elbow or hip dysplasia. Thus, it is recommended to get a second opinion from a well known orthopaedic surgeon before even considering the option of a surgery.
Apart from the above mentioned diseases or conditions, the Basset Hound is also prone to glaucoma, and eyelid conditions. Obesity, too, is a serious issue when it comes to Basset Hounds. And why wouldn’t it be considering how laid-back they normally are?
Frequently Asked Questions about Basset Hound
How much do a Basset Hound costs in India?
A Basset Hound is a breed of dog that has extremely long ears and curly tails. They are known for their friendly personalities, but they can also drool quite often! The average price ranges from INR 30,000 to INR 35,000, depending on the size and age you purchase.
Why are Basset Hounds so expensive?
Basset hound owners know that this breed of dogs needs a lot more attention. Bassets are big-hearted, but they require lots of exercise and special diets for optimal health. Bassets can live about 10 years on average and eat around 3 cups per day if uncooked or 1/2 cup when fed dog food as their natural diet is to scavenge off the ground, which may not provide them with all the nutrients needed to be healthy like other breeds.
Why do Basset Hounds stink?
The “stinking” reputation of the Basset Hound may be due to its excessive skin folds. Basset Hounds have multiple skin folds on their body, which means that when they have saliva, food, sweat, or water drip onto their coat, it will get caught in those wrinkles and produce a distinctive odor.
Are male or female Basset Hounds better?
If you’re debating between getting a male or female Basset Hound, then it doesn’t really matter! Male and females of this breed are just about equally trainable. Don’t worry too much over the decision because either choice will make an excellent companion pet for your family – they love to socialize with humans and other pets in their household.
Can Basset Hounds be left alone?
Basset Hounds are pack animals and don’t like to be separated from the owner. So it’s in the best interest not to leave them alone for more than 3 hours at a time, as they get aggravated with extended periods of loneliness.
Are Basset Hounds hard to potty train?
One of the best ways to potty train a Basset Hound is with patience. These dogs are intelligent and stubborn but also sensitive, which makes them difficult at times. But they make great companions if you have the time for their quirky personality!
Do Basset Hounds like to cuddle?
Basset hounds are one of the most lovable breeds in existence. They’re perfect for cuddling and will adore your kids, but you’ll need to make sure they won’t find themselves threatened by any new additions! Basset Hounds love snuggles – just like all dogs do, so these pups are great with little ones too! But there’s a catch: Your kids have to be okay around them. Bassets can get a bit anxious if they feel that their territory is being invaded or changed drastically as it often is when children come into play; this might cause some stress between both parties, which could lead to tension.
Is a Basset Hound a good pet?
A Basset Hound can be just what your family needs. They are one of the most pleasant-natured and easy-going breeds around! They’re also known to have great tolerance levels with kids or other pets as well. Almost all dogs in this breed will show good behavior when it comes to strangers, children, and even other animals, too – so pick up that leash today if you want an ideal companion!
How many hours does a Basset Hound sleep in a day?
If you’re wondering how much sleep a Basset Hound puppy needs, the answer is 16-22 hours. That’s right, a full day! Basset hounds over year old will need 13-18 hours of snooze time each day, so don’t feel bad if your pooch has trouble sleeping through all that excitement at night.
Does a Basset Hound bark a lot?
As a Basset Hound owner, you’ll hear your dog making all sorts of sounds and noises – not just barking! Some may find this endearing, while others will think it’s an annoyance. It mainly depends on what type of person they are. Basset hounds do make excellent pets, though, if the right family adopts one with lots to give in return for their love and care.
Are Basset Hounds high maintenance?
A Basset Hound’s high maintenance is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they’re very low-energy dogs and can sit around all day long without complaint; but on the other hand, those giant ears are prone to infections that need regular cleaning.
Can you train a Basset Hound not to bark?
Basset hounds are known for their distinctive bark, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn to keep quiet. Training your Basset not to bark is thankfully relatively straightforward: first, teach him how to bark on command, and then you’ll be able to train him when it’s appropriate (i.e., at home). If you have a puppy Basset Hound still learning the ropes of being an obedient canine companion, he should eagerly follow commands so long as his human recognizes and rewards good behavior with praise or treats!
Do Basset Hounds swim?
Basset hounds are not the best swimmers, but they love to spend time in and near water. The key is controlling their movements, so your Basset Hound doesn’t go too far into the deep end of a pool or other body of water.
Are Basset Hounds dangerous?
While they may not be aggressive in general, some circumstances could make them more hostile. For instance, if a stranger comes to their territory without the owner’s permission or physical contact with another dog can lead to an attack from this breed because of how territorial it is!
Are Basset Hounds cuddlers?
Basset hounds are known for being cuddlers. They enjoy showing their affection by licking hands, sitting on laps, sleeping with owners, and leaning against them to rub noses or nuzzle while laying down nearby. For those lucky enough to share a home with one of these adorable animals, you can also increase the amount of time your Basset spends in close contact simply by providing adequate training through care and affection as well as plenty of rigorous training exercises!
Are Basset Hounds good pets?
I’ve never seen a Basset Hound as anything but happy-go-lucky. They’re some of the best dogs for lazy owners because they don’t need much exercise and are calm despite what’s going on around them. But their good nature comes with responsibility: these sweethearts can be stubborn when it comes to training, so you’ll have your work cut out for yourself!
Do Basset Hounds stink?
Basset Hounds have a distinctive smell that they cannot escape. They are great dogs, and it does not matter how many baths you give them; their scent will come back to the surface!
Do Basset Hounds bark a lot?
Basset hounds are known for their baying, barking, and howling. Originally bred to help with hunting expeditions, expect these dogs to be vocal! They’ll not only bark at people but other animals too.
How long can a Basset Hound be left alone?
The Basset Hound is a gentle, sweet dog that should be left at home with the family. They are not an outdoor breed and need lots of attention! I wouldn’t recommend leaving them alone for more than three to four hours because they can become destructive when bored or lonely. When you get back from work, make sure to give your hound plenty of love before bedtime, so they have something else to do besides chew on furniture and tear up carpets—no one likes living in chaos!
Are Basset Hounds good first dogs?
Basset Hounds are a great first dog choice. They’re healthy, and they make good apartment dogs because of their size, but if you have more space to roam around in than an average-sized home, that’s wonderful. Also, Basset hounds, like other breeds, bark often, so keep all those things in mind when deciding on your pet!
How often should Basset Hounds be bathed?
Basset hounds may need as many as two baths per week to keep their coats clean and healthy. This is because they have a double coat of fur that can get very dirty from the dirt in our environment, even if it’s not apparent on the surface! We recommend using shampoos formulated for dogs or people with sensitive skin.
Can Basset Hounds climb stairs?
Basset hounds can physically climb stairs, both up and down. They like to explore their world on all fours or tackling the challenge head-on with aplomb. However—regardless of how much they love exploring new heights—hounds should be limited in stair use due to their stature: long backs make them prone for injury when using repetitively and front-loaded bodies that are not built for such climbing.
Do Basset Hounds drool?
Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive snouts and long ears, but they’re also very good at letting loose. Bassets tend to drool more than any other dog breed – especially when eating or drinking water after meals. When your pet is chomping down on some food, the saliva builds up in his jowls and flaps of skin around the mouth as it helps soften and digest meaty dinners.
Do Basset Hounds sleep a lot?
A Basset Hound is an adorable and sleepy dog! You may have heard the myth that they sleep about 18 hours every day. This isn’t true; how much time your pup naps in during any given 24 hour period depends on their age (puppies are sleeping 16 to 22 hours a day while adults nap 13 to 18). The reason for this long slumbering habit is because these types of dogs don’t get very active–they’re kind of like big lazy pugs with short legs.
Are Basset Hounds lazy?
Basset Hounds are one of the most laid-back breeds there is. They’ve been bred for generations as pack dogs, so they have a natural affinity for being around their human family and other pets alike. With an easy-going disposition that’s hard to match, if you’re looking for a dog who can stay calm with kids or take on some more active activities like hunting in your free time, Basset Hound might be right up your alley!
Do Basset Hounds fart a lot?
Yes. Not only do they fart, but their farts can often be very smelly! In addition to producing an incredibly strong scent with each release of gas, Basset Hounds usually get so excited about food that they eat fast without chewing the food and are more likely than other breeds of dogs to fart because dogs have difficulty digesting large pieces of undigested material when eating quickly or gulping down too much air while doing it.
Are Basset Hounds easy to train?
Basset Hounds are reasonably intelligent dogs, but they’re not the easiest of breeds to train. Start training right off with puppies and do plenty of rewarding positive reinforcement so that your excellent dog stays interested in what you’re doing! They enjoy tracking and hunting as a casual pastime, even if only for fun.
Are Basset Hounds healthy?
Basset Hounds are healthy. They have a long lifespan and don’t suffer from many health problems other breeds do, like hip dysplasia or heart disease. The only real issue they face is obesity, leading to arthritis in old age if not appropriately managed.
At what age do Basset Hounds calm down?
The average age Basset Hounds calm down is around two to three years old; however, some remain hyper even after 3-5 years. As a hunting breed, they were bred for the specific purpose of tracking and catching animals!
Are Basset Hounds protective?
Basset hounds are a wonderfully sensitive and protective breed of dog. The best way to get your Basset used to strangers is by socializing them with new people as soon as possible, even if it’s just for short periods at first. You can also try taking him or her on walks in places where there will be more activity from other dogs, humans—whatever! It’ll help these loving pups start recognizing the world outside their home isn’t scary after all, but instead full of interesting things that they want to explore!
How do you discipline a Basset Hound?
Many people mistake Basset hounds for being lazy and difficult to train, but the truth is that they are just easily distracted! They respond very well to treats when given a reward every time they do something you like. If your dog does not listen or continuously breaks things in the house- don’t punish them with violence or yell at them. You have two options: ignore their behavior altogether (which might be best) or give another type of punishment such as taking away food from their dish even after dinner has been served.
When Should I Neuter my Basset Hound?
The best time to neuter your dog would be between 4 and 9 months old, and it’s also important for dogs in general because there are health benefits involved with neutering male animals. Neutered males live longer than unneutered ones since cancer rates decrease substantially by this procedure, and some incidences of prostate problems can end up being avoided.
How do you tell if your Basset Hound loves you?
Basset Hounds are very obedient dogs, and for the most part, they are also obedient to their person. These furry friends enjoy pleasing their family, which makes it easy to tell if they love you, but there are some things you may need to look at. When canines aren’t feeling confident, they will avoid eye contact and stiff movements towards their humans, but a happy dog will be more confident around you. Basset Hound’s eyes have a powerful gaze that is reserved just for you! Just watch your hound and see whether or not he dares to gaze up at your face with his soulful brown eyes. This is one of the traditional signs of devotion in dogs.
Are Basset Hounds available in India?
Basset Hounds are not that hard to find in India. There might be three variations of the breed, but there won’t be any trouble for you getting one either way!
What problems do Basset Hounds have?
Basset Hounds are commonly known to suffer from a few primary health conditions, Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), gastric torsion, elbow dysplasia, homeopathy. Some other minor ones include otitis externa and ectropion.
How healthy are Basset Hounds?
Basset Hounds are mainly known for their shorter legs, long ears, big eyes, and a droopy face, but also one of the healthiest breeds out there! Bassets can live up to 12 years old or more, with an average life expectancy being about 10 – 11 years which is pretty impressive. Now they do suffer from certain conditions like allergies or bloat, which isn’t uncommon at all.
What do most Basset Hounds die of?
Basset Hounds are known for being one of the most popular breeds to be owned as a pet. Even though they have an average lifespan of 10 years, some Basset Hound’s owners report having their dog live up to 17 years old! Aging and common health issues such as Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), gastric torsion, and elbow dysplasia account for many deaths in this breed, but some die young.
Are female Basset Hounds easy to train?
It is difficult for a dog of any gender to be 100% obedient. However, it seems that some breeds are easier than others when it comes to the training process. For example, female Bassets are reasonably intelligent dogs. Still, they can take more time and patience because they tend not to show much interest in learning new tricks as quickly as other breeds might do, so keep at them with lots of positive reinforcement, or else you may find yourself back at square one!
Are Basset Hounds good for seniors?
The Basset Hound is a good choice for seniors. They’re happy, laid back, and calm dogs who go with the flow of life without any complaints. This breed has an even temperament, and they are very intelligent, which makes them easy to train, especially considering their laid-back personality.
What do you feed a Basset Hound?
Basset Hounds are a gentle breed, and they need to be fed three or four times daily. A good diet should include vegetables, fruit, water additives like cranberry juice that will help with their bladder function, and meat-based proteins.
Do Basset Hounds have separation anxiety?
For the perfect pet that doesn’t suffer separation anxiety, consider a Basset Hound. These low-energy mutts are unlikely to get lonely when left alone for long periods, and they’re easily amused with table scraps or even an old shoe.
Can Basset Hounds be left alone during the day?
Although it has been shown that 3-4 hours is a reasonable amount of time for them to be home by themselves, they need people’s contact and interaction. It’s important to have someone come in every few hours or check on him when he’s stuck inside. Some dogs may do okay being bored from various activities throughout the house like bones, chew toys, and light grooming. Keep an eye out for any signs of anxiety/boredom, such as pacing around your living space with no focus – this can mean you’re leaving your dog too much!
Are Basset Hounds chewers?
Basset hounds are notorious chewers. They’re always chewing on things. But more importantly than that is the fact Bassets like to be destructive! They love destroying anything and everything in sight – whether it’s their toys or furniture belonging to a family member. This can all be prevented by providing them with lots of safe alternatives for chewing and plenty of time out.
Are Basset Hounds inside or outside dogs?
Basset Hound is a breed of dog that can be both an inside or outside dog. They are calm dogs and do well even in small houses with apartments as they have been bred for it. If you’re going to keep them indoors, make sure there’s plenty of space so they don’t get bored, but if you want to take advantage of their hunting abilities, then let them out into the yard on a leash!
What are Basset Hounds known for?
The Basset Hound is a gentle and lovable dog. They get along well with children, other dogs, or even cats! The only thing they don’t like much is strangers because of their protective nature. So you must be prepared to handle them firmly but patiently if you want one in your family!
How much does a purebred Basset Hound puppy cost?
A purebred Basset Hound puppy can cost up to INR 60,000. A Basset Hound is known for its floppy ears and big, droopy eyes resembling those of a bloodhound.
How many hours a day should a Basset Hound sleep?
A puppy will need to be awake about 16-22 hours per day and an older one 13-18. Basset Hounds are known for their constant sleeping habits because of their little energy compared to other breeds. They’ll usually take naps throughout the day since there isn’t much going on.
Are Basset Hounds good for first-time owners?
There’s not a lot of dogs that are more loyal than Basset Hounds. They’re patient, tolerant, and kind to kids while at the same time being gentle with other pets in your home. Best for first-time owners because they don’t have any heightened needs or desires outside of good food, water, and some adventures outdoors every day!
Do Basset Hounds make good house dogs?
These gentle giants can be a great fit for many homes. They have an easy-going nature and are known to show affection with a wagging tail or floppy ears – they’re the perfect family dog!
How often should you bathe Basset Hounds?
It is important to bathe your Basset Hound a couple of times per year to keep them healthy and smelling fresh. Bassets have sensitive skin, so you should use dog shampoo instead of human one because it will be gentler on their coats. Also, in the summertime, you’ll want to wash your pup’s coat more often than during winter months since they are out running around all day long!
How do I stop my Basset Hound peeing in the house?
Basset hounds are a stubborn breed. They come with their own set of challenges, one being that they’ll pee inside the house if left to go on unsupervised for too long! The good news is: it’s not impossible to train them and stop this behavior from happening again. You can start training your Basset as soon as you bring him home by taking him out to the potty before getting him into the house for his first time. Then, keep an eye on what he does while outside so that you know when it’s appropriate to take care of business in there instead – just like any other dog would do!
Are Basset Hounds rare?
It’s true; they are not the easiest dogs to find, and you may have never seen one in your life, but there are bassets out there! Unfortunately, the rarity of black-colored bassets has caused them to be more expensive than other colors like tri-colors or browns because breeding for these solid-colored hounds can be difficult.
Are Basset Hounds muscular?
Yes, Basset hounds are quite muscular, which contributes to their tireless running abilities. Basset Hounds are one of the few dog breeds recognized for being stocky and long-bodied. If they were a human, they would be considered stout or husky in build. For this reason, some people not familiar with the breed might view them as somewhat out-of-shape or clumsy because they often walk rather than a trot, thus fooling onlookers into thinking that maybe they have more fat than muscle as if they weren’t getting enough exercise! Fortunately, this is not true! Regardless of how lazy it may appear on video or
Are lemon Basset Hounds rare?
Although Basset Hounds are not rare, the purebred lemon variety is. These dogs have a white coat that fades into light brown as they grow old and reach maturity.
Are there miniature Basset Hounds?
A miniature Basset Hound is a smaller dog with the same long ears as other breeds of this type. They are famous for companionship but not recommended to be left unattended if they have an instinctive tendency towards hunting small prey since their large noses can lead them too far away from home! A mini-Basset is like all others in that it has really big ole’ floppy ears and tends to follow its nose everywhere without regard for what’s behind fences or walls.
How many puppies do Basset Hounds have?
The average number of puppies per litter ranges from 8-10 with an optimal range and can even be up to 14. The gestation period averages at about 60 days but can vary by as much as four weeks either way, depending on various factors such as environment, diet, and genetics.
Are Basset Hounds clingy?
Basset hounds are the clingiest breed of dog! They love to follow their owners around and will take charge if you’re not careful. If your Basset is left alone for more than 4 hours at a time, it may become destructive or unruly because it was never designed to be without human contact that long. Consider getting another type of pet instead if this sounds like an issue in your household- there’s nothing worse than having one lonely pup on too much attention all day while no one pays any heed with them when home from work or school.
Things To Take Care Of
If you are thinking of adopting a Basset Hound, you need to take care of its grooming requirements and be particularly careful towards regular health check-ups. The Basset Hound is a beautiful dog breed that is loyal, intelligent, curious and friendly. But health concerns are pretty common with these little cuties. But due to their overall nature, it makes sense why they are such favourites among dog lovers across the world!
