Basset Hound
Hound Group · The World's Best-Nosed Low-Rider · #35 AKC Breed
40–65 lbsWeight
11–15"Height
12–13 yrsLifespan
Tri-Color/Lemon & WhiteColors
★★★★★Family Dog
Hound Group · The World's Best-Nosed Low-Rider · #35 AKC Breed
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Basset Hound — the lovable, droopy-eared scent hound from France with the second-best nose of any dog breed in the world.
The Basset Hound is a French scent hound bred for centuries to trail rabbits and hare through dense undergrowth. Their name comes from the French word "bas," meaning low — an apt description for a dog whose body seems designed to stay close to the ground. That low-slung build is actually functional: it slows the dog down just enough for hunters on foot to keep up, while those enormous ears sweep scent particles up toward the nose with every step.
The Basset Hound possesses the second-best nose of any dog breed — bested only by the Bloodhound, their close cousin. Their stubborn reputation is really a product of this incredible nose: once a Basset locks onto a scent, their world narrows to that trail. It takes patience and creativity to train a dog whose instincts are this powerful. The good news is they are fundamentally gentle, agreeable dogs who rarely show aggression.
A critical health note: those beautiful long ears trap moisture and limit airflow, creating a perfect environment for chronic ear infections. Weekly ear cleaning is non-negotiable for Basset Hound owners. They are also highly prone to obesity — their food motivation is legendary, and extra weight puts devastating stress on their long spine and short legs. Ration food carefully and resist those soulful eyes begging for more.
Real Basset Hounds — those magnificent ears, soulful eyes, and tri-color coats on display.
Basset Hounds are among the most gentle, good-natured dogs in existence. They are not built for speed, aggression, or high-energy play — they are built for friendship. They get along beautifully with children, other dogs, and even cats when raised together. Their biggest personality challenge is their stubborn independence around scent, which owners often mistake for disobedience.
Despite appearances, Basset Hounds need regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity. They are not high-energy dogs, but they do enjoy sniffing walks and moderate daily activity. The biggest risk is a sedentary Basset who overeats — this combination leads to weight gain that can severely impact their spine and joints.
Basset Hounds are too large and heavy for cabin travel on most airlines. Their brachycephalic-adjacent features (though not flat-faced, their airways can still be impacted) mean cargo flights are not ideal. Car travel is the best option. Bring ear cleaning supplies — travel and humidity can increase infection risk.
The Basset Hound's short, smooth coat is one of the easiest to maintain among medium-large breeds. However, what they lack in coat complexity they more than make up for in ear care requirements. The wrinkles around the neck and face also need attention to prevent skin fold infections.
Basset Hound training requires patience, humor, and high-value treats. They are not unintelligent — they simply have strong opinions about what deserves their attention. The key is making yourself more interesting than the smells around them, which requires high-value rewards and very short sessions. Never use punishment — a humiliated or frightened Basset simply shuts down.
Ear infections are the single most common health problem in Basset Hounds — the long ears that make them so endearing are also a constant ear health liability. Beyond ears, their heavy, low-slung body puts unique stress on their spine and joints. Weight management is arguably the most important health intervention an owner can make for a Basset Hound.
Basset Hounds are ideal for owners who want a gentle, laid-back companion who is wonderful with kids and other animals. They suit apartment living if walked daily. They are NOT a good fit for owners who want a highly obedient off-leash dog, want a quiet breed, or aren't prepared to commit to serious ear cleaning routines and portion control.
Feeding a Basset Hound correctly is one of the most important things you can do for their long-term health. They will eat as much as you give them — without exception. Measure every meal, use a food puzzle bowl to slow eating and prevent bloat, and give zero table scraps. Split daily food into two meals, never one large feeding.
Basset Hounds cost $90–$190 per month on average. Ear infections are the biggest unexpected expense — budget for at least 2–4 vet ear treatment visits per year.
Over 12–13 years, a Basset Hound typically costs $14,000 – $25,000 total. Recurring ear treatment and potential IVDD spinal surgery are the largest wildcard expenses.
Learn to clean your Basset's ears at home with vet-approved ear cleaner — weekly cleanings at home can prevent the chronic infections that cost $150–$400 per vet visit to treat. Ask your vet to demonstrate the proper technique at your first appointment.
Basset Hounds are mixed to soften their stubborn streak while keeping their gentle, lovable personality.
The Bassador combines the Basset's extraordinary nose and gentle demeanor with the Labrador's trainability and sociability. The result is usually a more active, more obedient dog than a purebred Basset — but still with that irresistible hound character. They tend to be medium-sized with shorter legs than a Lab but longer than a Basset.
The Bassetoodle brings together the Basset's gentle heart and the Poodle's intelligence and low-shedding coat. These dogs vary considerably in appearance and size depending on whether the Poodle parent is standard, miniature, or toy. Generally more trainable than a purebred Basset and much lower shedding.
Two of the world's greatest scent hounds combined — the Bagle Hound is a compact, friendly, nose-driven dog with an unforgettable baying voice. They inherit the best (and most challenging) traits of both parents. Extremely gentle with kids, loves other dogs, but will follow a scent straight off the property if not leashed.