Basset Hound: Temperament, Nose and Everyday Care

A Basset suits a patient, easygoing home that wants a gentle, sociable and comical hound. Bassets follow their noses, can be stubborn, and have a big voice. Keep them lean to protect their long backs, use ramps instead of jumps, and check those long ears every week.

A tricolor Basset Hound with long ears sniffing along a woodland path — The nose knows. The legs take their time.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Basset Hound at a glance
Height	About 13–15 inches (33–38 cm)
Lifespan	Over 10 years
Coat	Short and smooth; a weekly brush
Exercise	Up to an hour a day, at a sniffing pace
Voice	A loud, baying howl
Bred for	Trailing hares and rabbits by scent

Who a Basset Suits

Bassets are friendly, gentle and good with people and dogs. They suit patient owners who enjoy slow, sniffy walks.

They are a harder fit for close neighbors who mind howling, and for anyone needing reliable off-leash recall.

The Nose and Recall

A Basset on a scent hears very little else. Walk on a leash or long line outside secure areas, and use scent games at home to tire the brain. See dog enrichment ideas.

Back, Weight and Ears

A long back and short legs mean weight control matters. Weigh meals, use ramps for cars and sofas, and lift with both hands supporting chest and rear. Check the long ears weekly and wipe skin folds gently.

Gear for a Basset

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A long line for sniffy freedom, a car ramp and pet steps for a long back, a snuffle mat for nose work, and a harness that fits a deep chest.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists eye testing with gonioscopy as good practice for Basset Hound breeders, with DNA tests for Lafora's and a form of glaucoma (POAG-3), plus elbow scoring, as best practice. Ask to see the parents' results.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long ears, long questions.

Do Basset Hounds howl?

Many do, especially when bored or alone. Company and nose work help.

Are Bassets good with children?

Usually gentle and tolerant. Supervise, as with any dog.

Can a Basset be off the leash?

Only in secure areas. The nose wins over recall.

Do Bassets drool?

Some do. Keep a towel handy.