A Basset Hound loves rolling on the couch and sniffing every blade of grass in the park. They are gentle, loyal and great with children.

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Looking for a friend to slouch with on the couch all day? Look no further. Basset Hounds have a low level of excitability – laziness and sleeping are their two great loves. Following an interesting smell is another. They are scent hounds and will not respond to your call if their nose picks up something exciting.

Half-a-dog tall and a dog-and-a-half long, this soft, droopy-eared and droopy-eyed breed is a wondrous blend of happy charm and zen. A Basset Hound’s long ears help to float scents up to their nose. They are gentle, friendly, loyal and well behaved. They are great companion dogs and get on particularly well with children.

Fun fact: Marilyn Monroe had a pet Basset Hound.

Their love of food may be second only to yours, and dog treats will work wonders during obedience training for your otherwise-stubborn Basset Hound. When hungry or lonely, they can be quite vocal. They have a deep, musical bark… and they drool a lot. Basset Hounds may howl when bored.

It’s not all couch dwelling either, while your Basset Hound may be happy to count rolling around on your worn-out rug as their favourite exercise, a long, daily walk is what will keep them really cheerful and healthy. Make sure you keep them on a leash as they tend to wander off, especially on picking up a scent. They are not great swimmers, shed little hair and are low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Brush weekly to keep their coat clean.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. A Basset Hound’s long body can cause bone and joint disorders. They are also prone to some eye problems. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

A Basset Hound is a medium-sized breed weighing between 18-27kgs, with a height between 33-38cms.

Space

Basset Hounds will do well in an apartment or house.

Energy Levels

They are not the most energetic of dogs, they just want to sleep, eat and sniff. A daily walk is ideal for keeping your pet in shape.

Difficulty of Training

They are intelligent, but have a mind of their own. They will choose to follow a scent over coming when called.

Family Suitability

They are great family pets and loyal companions.

Compatibility with other Pets

Basset Hounds will befriend other pets in no time at all.

Need for Company

They have a high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family. You may find your pet snuggling on the couch next to you.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No

Coat and Grooming Needs

Basset Hounds are low-maintenance dogs. They require no trimming. Just brush their coat weekly and check their ears regularly. They have a short-medium coat that’s tri-colour, black, tan or white, or bi-colour in lemon and white, or red and white.  

Shedding

They are light shedders.

Tendency to Bark

They have a high tendency to bark, so expect some noise. `

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