There are some dog breeds you like, and then there are the ones that completely steal your heart.
For me, Basset Hounds fall firmly into that second category.
They’re stubborn. They’re lazy. They shed more than you would think should be physically possible. Their ears are constantly finding their way into water bowls, food bowls, mud, and anything else within reach.
And I absolutely love them.
If you’ve already met the dogs who run our house, you probably know that dogs are a pretty important part of our family. And after owning Basset Hounds, I can confidently say they are some of the sweetest, funniest, most lovable dogs I’ve ever had.
But they are definitely a breed worth learning about before you bring one home.
The Fascinating History of Basset Hounds
One of my favorite things about Basset Hounds is that those hilariously short legs and giant ears actually have a purpose.
Basset Hounds have deep roots in France. In fact, the name “Basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low.” According to the American Kennel Club’s history of the Basset Hound, the foundations of the breed can be traced back centuries, with low-set hunting hounds being developed and refined over generations.
Which feels pretty appropriate when your dog is approximately six inches off the ground but somehow takes up half the couch.
These dogs were built for hunting by scent. Their short legs allowed them to move through rough terrain and thick brush at a pace that hunters could follow on foot. Bassets were especially suited to tracking small game such as rabbits and hares.
And then there’s that nose.
Basset Hounds are serious scent hounds. According to the American Kennel Club, their long ears help stir scents toward the nose, while the loose skin around their faces helps hold scent nearby.
Suddenly those enormous ears make a lot more sense.
So while a Basset lying upside down on your couch may not exactly look like an elite hunting dog, there’s some pretty impressive design hiding underneath all those wrinkles.
Their history also explains a lot about their personalities today.
These dogs were bred to follow a scent and stay determined on the trail. That independent streak can still be very obvious in today’s Bassets. The AKC even describes Basset Hounds as stubborn while also noting that this trait, combined with their scenting ability, helped make them effective hunters.
Translation: your Basset may hear you calling his name perfectly well and simply decide that whatever he is smelling is more important.
It’s not that he doesn’t understand you.
He has other priorities.
What Are Basset Hounds Like?
Basset Hounds tend to be affectionate, laid-back dogs who enjoy being around their people.
They also tend to be hilarious without even trying.
Between their giant paws, droopy faces, enormous ears, deep barks, and ability to look personally offended by almost anything, they have so much personality.
They aren’t usually the dog bouncing off the walls asking you to throw a ball 87 times. A Basset is much more likely to enjoy a leisurely sniff around the yard followed by a very serious nap.
But don’t mistake laid-back for easy to train.
Bassets are smart. They’re just independent.
Sometimes very independent.
The Pros of Owning a Basset Hound
There is a lot to love about these dogs.
They are incredibly affectionate
In my experience, Bassets bond closely with their families and love being part of whatever is happening. Even if “being part of it” means sleeping through the entire thing from the most inconvenient spot in the room.
They can be wonderful family dogs
Their gentle, easygoing personalities are one of the things I love most about them. Of course, every dog has its own personality, and kids should always be taught how to interact respectfully and safely with dogs.
They’re pretty laid-back
If you’re looking for a dog who needs hours of intense exercise every day, a Basset probably isn’t it. They still need regular walks, activity, and plenty of opportunities to sniff and explore, but ours certainly appreciate their downtime.
Very much.
They are ridiculously entertaining
You really have to live with a Basset to understand this one.
They’re just funny.
The expressions. The dramatic sighs. The selective hearing. The determination to get somewhere they absolutely should not be going.
Life with a Basset is rarely boring.
They’re extremely lovable
This is obviously subjective, but I stand by it.
There is something about a Basset Hound. Once you fall in love with those floppy ears and that sweet personality, you’re in trouble.
The Cons of Owning a Basset Hound
As much as I adore them, Basset Hounds aren’t necessarily the perfect dog for everyone.
They can be very stubborn
Remember that independent hunting dog?
He’s still in there.
Training a Basset requires patience and consistency. They may understand exactly what you’re asking and still take a moment to consider whether your request aligns with their plans for the day.
They can be lazy
Bassets often love a good nap, but it’s important not to let their love of lounging turn into complete inactivity.
Regular activity and maintaining a healthy weight are especially important for a dog with such a unique body structure.
You need to pay attention to their backs and joints
Basset Hounds have long, heavy bodies supported by very short legs. Because of their structure, it’s worth talking with your veterinarian about maintaining a healthy weight, appropriate exercise, and protecting their joints throughout their lives.
I also think this is something potential Basset owners should know going in. Those adorable short legs and long bodies are part of what makes them so distinctive, but they also mean we have to be thoughtful about their physical health.
Those ears require care
Those beautiful, enormous ears need some attention.
Because long, floppy ears can limit airflow, it’s important to keep an eye on your Basset’s ears and talk with your veterinarian about an appropriate cleaning routine and signs of infection.
And yes, those ears will also end up in the water bowl.
Repeatedly.
They shed
Oh, do they shed.
Their coat may be short, but don’t let that fool you. Basset hair has an impressive ability to appear on clothing, furniture, floors, and possibly things your dog has never actually touched.
They will follow their noses
This is one of those things that makes perfect sense once you understand what Bassets were bred to do.
They are scent hounds.
Once a Basset catches an interesting smell, the rest of the world can suddenly become much less important. A secure yard and a leash are especially important with dogs who were literally bred to put their noses down and follow a trail.
Including you.
Standing there.
Calling their name.
Are Basset Hounds Good Family Dogs?
For the right family, I think they can be fantastic.
They are loving, funny companions who want to be part of the family. They aren’t perfect dogs, but honestly, what dog is?
Owning a Basset means accepting some quirks.
There will probably be shedding.
There may be drool.
There will almost certainly be stubbornness.
You might find yourself standing outside trying to convince a dog with four functioning legs that yes, he really does need to walk the remaining 20 feet back to the house.
And somehow, you’ll love him even more for it.
Would I Own a Basset Hound Again?
Absolutely.
For all their quirks and potential challenges, Basset Hounds are some of the best dogs I’ve ever owned.
I love their gentle personalities. I love their ridiculous ears. I love how funny they are. I even love that stubborn little streak that makes you wonder which one of you is actually in charge.
Spoiler: it’s probably the Basset.
They’re sweet, silly, stubborn, sleepy, incredibly lovable dogs.
And once a Basset Hound has been part of your family, it’s really hard not to have a soft spot for them forever.
Sources & Further Reading
If you’d like to learn more about Basset Hounds and their history, these are great places to start: