🐕 Medium · France
The Basset Hound is a short-legged, long-bodied French scenthound with an excellent nose, long drop ears, and a laid-back, friendly, sometimes stubborn temperament.
Basset Hounds are good-natured, friendly, and rarely aggressive, yet also headstrong and easily distracted by their keen nose. They bark with a deep, distinctive voice and seek close family attachment.
Exercise needs are moderate; daily scent work and calm walks suit them better than endurance sports. Because of their long back, jumping and stairs should be avoided.
The long drop ears need regular checking and cleaning to prevent ear infections; the short coat is low-maintenance but prone to a distinctive odor. Excess weight must be actively avoided.
The calm temperament makes the Basset appealing to first-time owners, but stubbornness in training and the care required for the back and ears demand patience.
The long back makes the breed prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD); ear infections, ectropion, and obesity are also common. Regular weight control is crucial for the spine.
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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.
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