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CLEAR ALLKnown for their distinct droopy faces, Basset Hounds are loved for their friendly, easy-going natures. They are just as happy chasing a scent trail as they are simply lazing on your lap. Their short stature, loose elastic skin, and long floppy ears are all traits that have made them one of the best breeds for scent tracking, alongside their cousin – the Bloodhound. Basset Hounds were initially bred to hunt small game, and they are still being used for this purpose today.
These dogs have a gentle demeanour, so they make great companions for children. While they can be stubborn at times due to their independent natures, consistent training can help with this. As long as you are patient, you will be rewarded with a charming companion that will regularly entertain you with their adorable antics.
Basset Hounds can be a good choice for first-time dog parents because of their affectionate, relaxed, and adaptable nature. However, you need to commit to giving them ample exercise and offer a diet that is tailored to their needs because these dogs are prone to weight gain.
Known for their distinct droopy faces, Basset Hounds are loved for their friendly, easy-going natures. They are just as happy chasing a scent trail as they are simply lazing on your lap. Their short stature, loose elastic skin, and long floppy ears are all traits that have made them one of the best breeds for scent tracking, alongside their cousin – the Bloodhound. Basset Hounds were initially bred to hunt small game, and they are still being used for this purpose today.
These dogs have a gentle demeanour, so they make great companions for children. While they can be stubborn at times due to their independent natures, consistent training can help with this. As long as you are patient, you will be rewarded with a charming companion that will regularly entertain you with their adorable antics.
Basset Hounds can be a good choice for first-time dog parents because of their affectionate, relaxed, and adaptable nature. However, you need to commit to giving them ample exercise and offer a diet that is tailored to their needs because these dogs are prone to weight gain.
Basset Hounds are medium-sized dogs yet have a very different body structure from many other medium breeds. Their bodies hang low, held just above the ground by very short legs. This gives them a shorter-than-average height of 28 to 38 cm.
Still, while they may not be the tallest pup, their muscular bodies mean they can be pretty hefty nonetheless. The weight of a Basset Hound can vary from anywhere between 18 and 39 kg.
Their robust bodies have powerful fore and hindquarters, well-muscled necks, and broad backs. This gives them impressive stamina in the field while their well-padded, large feet keep them sturdy and stable.
Basset Hounds have relatively large dome-shaped heads, dark-coloured lozenge-shaped eyes, and low-set floppy ears that hang low and turn inwards. These dogs also have wrinkled skin on their heads and bodies. This is most prominent around the brow and eyes and on their legs.
Basset Hounds have smooth, short, weather-resistant coats. Tricolour is the most popular, but there can be other colours like brown, black and white, and lemon and white.
Basset Hounds are known to be relaxed and easygoing dogs who are content to snuggle with their families and laze around on the sofa. They certainly have a playful side but are not as energetic as other hound breeds, making them a more 'well-rounded' companion.
However, one hound trait they are not free of is their stubborn streak. You may notice that they won't listen to your commands if they are tracking a scent. Thus, you should regularly work on this in their training sessions.
Despite this stubborn streak, they are still a good fit for inexperienced dog owners. You will have a good relationship with them if you are patient and understanding and ensure they understand who the alpha in the household is.
Basset Hounds make excellent family dogs as they are loyal and affectionate. These canines genuinely adore being around people, and they enjoy the company of everyone, including children. They are also very patient and well-mannered with kids.
Because of their need for human interaction, Basset Hounds don't like to be left alone for long and can get lonely quickly. However, getting a canine companion can help as they also appreciate the company of other dogs and typically get along well with their own kind.
Being so friendly and people-orientated, this breed does well in various home settings. They are especially a good fit for families with children, though, due to their calm and pleasant temperament.
Basset Hounds do well in multi-dog households and can get along with cats if raised together. However, as they maintain strong hunting instincts, you should not introduce them to a cat once fully grown (unless they have already been well-socialised with them). Like all other hounds, this breed is unsuitable for homes with small animals like rabbits and hamsters.
Lastly, because of their weight and build, Basset Hounds shouldn't climb too many steps. Thus, they are not the most flat-friendly canine and do better in a house with an enclosed garden that they can sniff around.
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