It may be hard to believe, but the people call the Basset Hound a clown. Beginners will be confused how this dog with endless longing and sadness in his eyes can be associated with a circus performer. Ears dragging on the floor, eyebrows raised by the "house", a heavy and sad look - all this is a props, a true indicator of Basset's mood is his tail. Any owner of the Basset Hound will confirm that his pet is active, mobile and cheerful around the clock. Why a dog's appearance is contrary to its temperament is a mystery that can only be partially solved.

Before delving into the history, it is worth considering a few points regarding the name Basset-Hound. All dogs of small stature, living in France in the XVII-XVIII centuries, were called "Bas" - low, part of the word "Set" is translated as planted. English hounds were called Hound. Hence, Basset-Hound translates to low set hound. Further, the term "Hound" is usually associated with competitions in running speed. In the case of Bassett, the term refers to the dog's ability to drive and chase prey. It is known that tetrapods were used to search for truffles, to feed large and small game, and if Bassett is trained to hunt a wolf, he will calmly pass by a hare.

It is interesting! Despite the fact that the Basset Hounds hunted in groups, each dog followed the chosen trail and did not succumb to the "pack excitement".

The first progenitors of the Bassets are considered to be the Saint Huberts - extinct hounds that lived in France. The theory was challenged after the discovery of records of the ancestor breed. Sources testified that the St. Huberts were exceptionally white in color. However, surviving records and works of art confirm that the breed had black and tricolor representatives. In books devoted to cynology, descriptions of two types of Bassetts - artesian and Flemish, have also been preserved. Modern Basset Hounds originated from the artesian line. The Flemish species was most likely mixed with terriers, as a result of which dachshunds were obtained.

It is interesting! The Basset Hound is not only the slowest hound in the world, it also boasts the longest ears. If you pull the dog's ears forward, they cover the entire muzzle with an overlap.

During the French Revolution (1789-1799) and before it, one of the main trades of people was hunting. Keeping horses was beyond the strength of ordinary people, so hunting on foot was constantly gaining popularity. Bassetts were bred specifically for hunting on foot, which was the reason for their widespread popularization.

It is interesting! Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte - the President of the French Republic, later the Emperor, was an ardent admirer of the Basset artesian type.

Brought to Great Britain in 1876, the dogs fell into the caring hands of Everett Milles, who spared no effort, time and money to recognize and popularize the Bassets in England. By the way, the first representatives of the breed came to Great Britain 10 years earlier, but ended up in the wrong hands and went unnoticed. Ser Everett was a passionate hunter, and he was interested in the chase, not the prey, and the man often returned "from the fields" empty-handed.

Appreciated working qualities of dogs gave rise to an increasing demand for the breed. Sir Everett, on the advice of experienced breeders, crossed the undersized hounds with the old-type Beagle, this was the birth of the modern Basset Hound breed. Active factory work, for which all and sundry were taken, led to the emergence of more than 1,500 Basset Hounds in 6 years. A preliminary breed standard already existed, but the description was so vague that any dogs remotely resembling Bassets were involved in breeding.

It is interesting! The first official breed club was registered in England in 1928.

The breed was soon mixed with Bloodhounds - larger hunting dogs. The seething work of breeders gave rise to a completely new type of dog, which was very different from the Artesian type Bassetts. Dogs of the Sulfur Everett line are still considered the progenitors of the best representatives of the Basset Hounds.

Read also: Karelian bear dog: standard, history, care and maintenance of the breed (+ photo)

In the 1880s, the breed began to be registered in the United States, the dogs were entered into the register of the Kennel Union of America (AKC). The confusion with the formation of the American line was no less than in England. We can say with confidence that the Americans crossed Bassets and Beagles, which spoiled the latter.

Although famous ancestors of the breed such as Nemours and Fleur de Lis are among the first American Bassets, decisive events took place after the First World War. Appreciated for good looks, the English and hunting skills of the French line were mixed, which gave rise to a new, American type of Basset Hound. The breed has confidently entrenched itself among the leaders of hunting dogs after the founding of the American Basset Hound Club and the registration of the description of the American type of breed (1933).

Appearance

The modern Basset Hound conforms to the breed characteristics approved by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1988. It must be said that modern dogs differ significantly from their ancestors. French Bassets were prized for their crooked forelegs. Yes, you understood everything correctly, the more the dog's limbs were bent, the more thoroughbred it was considered. The ideal Bassett was so low that his ribcage literally touched the ground.

Outcrossing with Bloodhound and Beagle, initiated by English breeders, allowed the dog's forepaws to be aligned, but the question of the root cause of the pathology remains open. Modern Basset Hounds are prone to curvature of the forelegs. The experts consider the following root causes:

• Improper nutrition of the bitch during gestation or in the early postpartum period.

• Crossbreeding of individuals suffering from rickets at the stage of the formation of the breed.

• Genetic defects associated with the development of the musculoskeletal system.

If you are wondering why the breeders made such sacrifices, why a taller and more problem-free dog was not bred, then the answers are quite simple. A taller dog existed - the Beagle, but the breed did not differ in endurance. A fan of the Basset Hounds, Fred Blaine compared the breed with a draft horse, and the Beagle with a horse, the difference is obvious.

Breed standard

The Basset Hound is considered the largest and heaviest of the Basset hounds. The size of an adult dog is quite impressive, height is 33–38 cm, weight depends on gender - the standard for a dog is from 23 to 29, for a bitch is from 20 to 27 kg.

• Head- massive, rectangular. The forehead is high, flat, passes into the back of the head with a noticeable tubercle. The transition to the muzzle is sloping. The skull is wider and shorter than the muzzle, the cheekbones are high, the eye sockets are pronounced. The bridge of the nose and forehead are on parallel lines. The skin covering the muzzle is loose, if desired, it can be pulled back.

• Teeth- smooth, large, strong, deep mouth. Scissor bite.

• Nose- pigmented in black or brown palette, depending on the color tone. The nostrils are wide, open. The size of the nose is medium to large and protrudes beyond the line of the lower jaw.

• Muzzle deep and evenly wide. The upper lip is free, completely covers the lower jaw and hangs down.

• Eyes- due to loose eyelids, the shape of the eyes is perceived as diamond-shaped. It should be noted that the shape of the eyes is assessed when the dog is standing in a natural position. The color of the iris, preferably dark, but almost all colors in the brown palette are allowed, light eyes are considered a disadvantage.

• Ears- Hanging down and close to the cheeks, evenly narrow, thin, soft, flexible, low set.

• Body- strong, elongated. The neck is broad and strong, gracefully arched when relaxed. The back is wide and straight. The ribcage is neat, low, wide and arched. The ribs are round, elongated. The skin is loose, including on the abdomen, adorning folds on the neck.

• Limbs- powerful, covered with a large amount of skin gathered in folds. The front legs go around the chest, in the lower part they approach slightly (in no case do they touch). The withers and shoulders are in proportion. The hind legs are very muscular and strong, the muscles of the croup are elongated. The hind legs are also covered with loose skin, but the folds are not massive. The brushes are very large and strong, the anterior ones are set straight or slightly apart, the posterior ones are exceptionally straight. The dog's footprint must be complete. The pads are massive, divided.

• Tail- powerful, set high, tapering towards the tip, carried high during work.

Read also: Hortaya greyhound: appearance, character, hunting, training, health (+ photo)

Coat type and color

The outer hair is short and dense. There is a lot of controversy about the stiffness of wool. Initially, the Basset Hound was credited with a hard coat, but even among the early representatives of the breed there were many eminent champions with a soft guard hair. The classic colors of the Basset Hound include:

• White black.
• White Red.
• White / brown.
• White / black / red.
• White / black / brown.
• Lemon - white / light brown (close to yellow).

Note! The breed standard has unlimited color variations, but there is a caveat - the color and pattern must fit into the "classic frame" of hound dogs.

Character and training

The adorable puppy in the photo, in fact, turns out to be a stubborn, touchy and very independent pet. The classic characteristics of the breed more than correspond to reality - Basset Hounds are proud, calm, clean, a little aloof. Many owners agree with the catch phrase: "If you need a master, get a Basset Hound."

Fans of the Bassetts note softness, calmness and a complete lack of aggression as key features of the breed. Naturally, if a child clings to a dog's ears or deliberately hurts the animal, then the docile nature will evaporate. The Basset Hound is not a nanny, he is a family member with the same rights as humans. It is also worth understanding that a dog with sad eyes is a mediocre guard. Undoubtedly, a four-legged pet will bark on the doorstep, but rushing into battle to save property is the prerogative of guard dogs, not hounds.

The dog gets along well with other pets. Against the background of an instinctive desire to form a pack, Bassett can be aggressive towards weaker relatives, most often young males tend to dominate. In relation to strangers, Bassett is wary, but quickly softens with a positive attitude of the owner. The main indicator of the pet's mood is the tail; if it is raised high and does not move, the dog is alert.

At puppyhood, the ward should be driven exclusively on a leash, firstly, the little Bassett is quite shy, and secondly, the dog has a habit of ignoring the owner, being carried away by the game. If you want to go for a walk off a leash in the future, socialization should come first. The grown up four-legged will have a desire to drive everything that resembles prey, be it a cat, a mouse or a ferret. The puppy should be in contact with cats as often as possible, naturally under your control. The cat is not in danger, the Bassetts are driven, but they do not bite the prey, but the cat may not be so tolerant.

Note! Basset Hounds hear perfectly, but ignore the command if they are keen on rutting prey.

Many owners, having heard about the difficulty of training Bassetts, initially raise a four-legged dog like a sofa dog. This is fundamentally wrong! An adult Basset Hound is strong, stubborn and weighs a lot. If the four-legged does not obey, the usual walk can end in disrepair. Training a hound is always more difficult than training a service breed. You will need a lot more time and patience, you will have to go for tricks and find motivation. If you are not ready for the challenging dog training, the Basset Hound is not for you. It should be noted that the four-legged will stubbornly ignore orders that are useless, in his opinion, so your task is to teach the ward basic commands and calling.

The Basset Hound has its pros and cons, but these dogs are the best in their field - they can follow the trail for hours, without fatigue and stops. Otherwise, the ability of the ward will depend on the amount of time invested by the owner in training. The breed is prone to calm, even apathetic behavior at home, but like any four-legged it needs loads - walks and, if possible, coursing lessons.

Note! Bassetts cannot boast of dexterity or speed, but dogs are very good at digging, so if your pet is walking in the local area, it is worth keeping an eye on him.

Photo of Basset Hound | Dreamstime.com

basic information

Assessment of breed characteristics

Adaptability A definition that denotes how easily a dog can adapt to changes in life.
Shedding level The level and frequency of hair loss in the animal.
Tenderness level The level and amount of tenderness and affection that the dog gives in return for attention to itself.
Need for exercise The dog's daily activity level.
Social need The required number of contacts of the dog with other animals, as well as people.
Apartment ratio A factor that determines the level of noise and other inconveniences that a dog can deliver to its owners in relation to the size of the apartment to the size of the dog.
Grooming The number of bathing, brushing, and the number of professional grooming sessions required for the dog.
Friendliness in an unfamiliar environment Features of the behavior of a dog in a society with strangers or in an unfamiliar environment.
Tendency to bark Tendency to bark and its frequency and volume.
Health issues Potential health status of the dog.
Territoriality The dog's tendency to protect his home, yard, or even the owner's car.
Friendliness to cats A tendency towards tolerance for cats and a decreased manifestation of hunting instincts.
Intelligence The ability of the dog to think and solve emerging difficulties (not to be confused with learning!).
Education and training The level of difficulty in training a dog to perform certain actions.
Friendliness to children A factor that determines how friendly a dog is to children, whether he likes to play with them and tolerate some childish pranks.
Game activity The concept is determined by its very name, and, as a rule, is found in almost all dogs.
Observation The ability of a dog to detect the presence of a stranger on its territory.
Friendliness to other dogs The tendency of the dog to find a common language with its other relatives.

Brief description of the breed

It is believed that basset hound originated in the seventh century in the monastery of St. Hubert, located in the Ardennes forest. According to legend, the monk Hubert, who is now considered the patron saint of hunters, spent a lot of time breeding a new breed of dogs. Later it became known as a Bloodhound and was especially appreciated in France and England. One of the varieties of Bloodhound was a short-legged, sluggish dog that hunters took a fancy to. These dogs did an excellent job of hunting small game, rabbits and hares. It is from these dogs that the Basset Hound most likely originated.

Pros of the breed

• Has an unusual appearance;
• Strongly attached to the owner;
• Friendly towards the people around him;
• Patient with children;
• Tolerant towards other dogs;
• Doesn't need a lot of movement, but loves walks very much;
• Incredibly agile;
• It is easy to look after him.

Cons of the breed

• Needs an understanding owner;
• By nature stubborn and headstrong;
• Sometimes naughty;
• Has a habit of running away;
• Likes to bark;
• Does not lend itself to standard training;
• Has a tendency to gain excess weight.

The Basset Hound has long been particularly popular. It can often be found in various commercials, as well as in the homes and lawns of many families who wish to have a good and devoted four-legged friend. The noble appearance and loyal character make this dog an excellent pet for almost any family.

The representatives of this breed have a very developed sense of smell. This is not strange, because the dog was bred for hunting. In this regard, only bloodhound dogs will be able to compete with the bassets. The rest are unlikely to be able to compete with them.

Since the basset hounds were originally bred as, they have preserved the corresponding natural instinct, so they always strive to chase potential prey. The peculiarities of the skin, as well as the long ears hanging down to the ground, give the basset a great opportunity to smell prey and, accordingly, catch up with it. It is for these qualities that bassets are valued by hunters.

Due to the fact that the legs of the Basset are short, they are not able to move as fast as other large dogs. But for a hunter, this is a very good feature, because the animal can sneak up on prey unnoticed. Another feature of the dog that is very convenient for hunter owners is the long tail with a white tip. It allows you to see the dog even when it is in tall grass.

Being at home, the basset will not show much activity, he is lazy in this regard. The pet is devoted to his family, very pleasant to talk to and friendly. Bassets do not like to be alone for a long time. If the pet is left alone for a long time, then it will certainly whine, and even howl.

Basset Hounds are food lovers, but at home they do not show much desire for active pursuits. This leads to obesity, which in turn leads to problems with the musculoskeletal system.

Bassetts are very hardy. You can safely go with them on long walks, the more this will have a positive effect on the health of the dog and prevent weight gain. When walking with your pet, do not forget that the Basset Hound is a hunting dog, so he loves to stalk. Do not walk off a leash, otherwise you risk that your pet may chase a potential trophy.

The Basset Hound is the owner of a unique voice. We can say that these dogs do not bark, but howl. They are also able to mutter in a peculiar way, thus attracting attention to themselves, or begging for food. Thanks to this peculiar behavior, they manage to elicit from the owner's table many delicacies that are not very useful for the dog. Do not follow the pet's lead. Moreover, many products from the owner's table can cause serious harm to the animal.

Bassetts are generally calm and level-headed, and they get along well with children as well as pets. The main disadvantage of this breed is its tendency to drool and howl during loneliness or anxiety. If you are willing to tolerate such oddities, then the Basset will become an unsurpassed pet and just an excellent companion dog.

Appearance

The name of the breed comes from the French word "bass" which means low. It is because of the short stature that this name appeared. Small growth is caused by a feature of the physiology of the animal: it has a rather heavy skeleton and a muscular body. The average weight of a dog is about 23 - 30 kilograms. But growth, as a rule, is about 33 - 38 centimeters. Bassetts are large dogs with low paws. The short stature of the dog is the result of dwarfism, which doctors call achondroplasia. But this is not a disease that should be tried to cure. These sizes have become the breed standard and distinguish these dogs from other relatives.

Basset hounds have a smooth, short coat that is relatively easy to care for. Most basset hounds are tricolor with black, brown and white patches. This color is considered classic. True, there are bassets with red spots on a white background, as well as with white spots on a red background, and a completely red color with white or lemon-colored paws. Sometimes there are also gray basset hounds. This color is not desirable, since most often the cause of the non-standard color is a genetic disease. You should not follow the lead of a dog breeder who will offer you, supposedly, a puppy with a unique color.

The Bassett has a rounded skull, and a large amount of skin on the front of the head. This kind of loose skin makes the basset look sad, which, according to many, adds a special charm to the animal.

Photo of a basset hound:

Photo of Basset Hound dogs | Dreamstime.com

Origin story

Legends say that the Bassets are originally from Constantinople, from where they came to Europe during the Crusades. Whether this is true or not, nobody knows. The British believe that the Basset is a very old breed that has been known in England since the 16th century. They believe that Shakespeare's description of a summer night is proof of this: “My hounds, painted in the color of sand, have powerful dewlaps. And sweep away the early dew with their heads down. Their knees are bent and their bellies are saggy. Slowly they follow the trail, but their joint barking sounds like a ringing. " While this description is appropriate for a Basset hound, some dog handlers claim that the features described may also correspond to the southern hound. Of course, this dilemma is insoluble, because no one really knows who Shakespeare was writing about.

In fact, the Basset Hound does not come from England at all, but from France, although the breed was bred and given its name, translated from French, by the British. These dogs became really popular thanks to the Americans. The Basset Hound is considered a descendant of two French breeds: the now defunct Basset d'Artois and the Basset Artesian Norman. In 1874, British breeders took a group of these dogs from France to their property. As a result of mating, a transitional breed was obtained, which was later crossed with a Bloodhound. This was the first artificial insemination in history, given the large difference in growth. It was from the Bloodhound that the Basset took over its main features: an excellent sense of smell, a highly prominent cranium, loosely hanging and forming folds of skin. From that time on, it was forbidden to export dogs, and the breeding of the Basset Hound in England developed independently.

In 1880, the Basset Hound was first shown at the Wolverhampton Exhibition, and in 1883 the first Basset Hound Club was created. A big fan of this breed was the wife of King Edward VII, Alexander, whose dogs also took part in exhibitions. One of them even received an award at a prestigious exhibition in 1909.

In Europe until the end of the 60s of the twentieth century, the breed remained heterogeneous. It even happened that dogs from the same brood could have completely different anatomical features: the height at the withers fluctuated within 23-30 cm, and sometimes even reached 36 cm.This was not the only difference, because the dogs also differed in their appearance ... The first specimen of the breed was presented only in 1955. This was a notable turning point for the development of the breed. The main characteristics of the breed were approved, which gave direction to the work of breeders who, after many years of work, were able to breed the Basset Hound that is familiar to us today, that is, a dog with an elongated body, powerful bone and short, strong legs. Compared to their ancestors, the modern basset has a lot more leather and also significantly more weight.

Surprisingly, this originally French breed returned to France only in 1955 and to this day it remains quite small. In this country, Bassets are mostly amateurs, fans of the breed, which of course does not contribute to the development of the population. Bassets are very popular in England, but in the States they break all popularity records. In France, about 800-1000 offspring are registered annually, in England - 2500-3000 individuals, but in the States there are more than 20,000 individuals!

Basset hound personality

A languid look, long ears and small stature sometimes make many people feel sorry for the Basset, as they look sad. In fact, these are very funny dogs with a calm character. They get along well with children and pets. All these qualities make the Basset Hound a good companion dog. It's especially fun to watch a basset play with the kids - it's a real sight to behold! You can be sure that your pet will start barking when he sees a stranger approaching, but once he realizes that this is your friend, he will start to greet him cheerfully.

The Basset Hound is a dog with a short, waterproof coat that is very easy to groom. Brushing weekly will keep your permanent shedding coat under control. Since Basset Hounds have long and drooping ears, this is a common cause of various ear problems. A weekly ear treatment will prevent all of this from happening. The folds on the basset's face also require regular wiping.

Training and education

Training a Basset Hound can be a major challenge, especially for an untrained dog breeder. Some believe that the reason for this is the dog's low intelligence, but this is not the case. The reason for this is the independent nature of the Basset, because of which these dogs are often not very receptive to training. In addition, dogs of this breed have no desire to please humans, which is also one of the reasons that complicates the training process. Basset Hound, very susceptible to various odors. If a pet smells some interesting aroma for him, then he will definitely try to follow him. In such situations, classes are out of the question. Dogs of this breed are best kept in a fenced-in area.

Health and disease

The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is 12 to 15 years. Major health problems include: allergies, back and joint problems, bloating, heart disease, skin diseases, ear, eyelid and eyelash diseases, glaucoma, disc disease, von Willebrand disease. Note that a basset is considered to be a healthy dog, but if the animal is poorly looked after, then diseases will not take long. Watch your ears especially closely. If this is not done, then otitis media will occur. The eyes also need care. They need to be wiped daily to remove dirt and dust that can build up under the skin around the eyes and lead to infections.

Some interesting facts

• The dog of detective Columbo, the hero of the well-known detective series, was a Basset Hound breed. Her look, full of indifference, fascinated many viewers who became interested in the breed precisely thanks to the series.
• Like all hounds, Basset hounds are difficult to train and educate.
• The long ears of a basset hound play an important role for the animal. They "lift" odors from the ground and direct them to the dog's nose.
• The constant shedding of a basset hound obliges the owner to brush the dog daily.
• Basset wool has an oily coat that can smell specifically. Don't try to wash off this natural defense.
• Bassetts can drool.
• If the Basset Hound catches a scent, he can follow.
• Basset training is best done in a special class.
• Bassett, like all hounds, does not accept harsh training methods. Be patient.
• Basset hounds often suffer from increased gas production. If you suspect such a problem, you should contact your veterinarian.
• Due to the nature of the basset skin, these dogs tend to salivate, especially when eating and drinking. If this is not entirely suitable for you, then it is better to refuse to buy a puppy of this breed.
• Obesity is a real problem for the Basset. They love to eat well, so they tend to overeat. In case of obesity, the dog will develop problems with the musculoskeletal system. The feeding regimen must be organized correctly, guided by the advice of a veterinarian, and not the recommendations on the packaging with dog food.
• Since these dogs are prone to bloating, which in some cases can be fatal, they need to be fed small meals 3 times a day. After eating, you should watch the dog to make sure everything is okay.
• The long ears of the Basset Hound require special care. They must be carefully monitored, washed in time and treated with a special solution.
• Even if your Basset Hound seems strong and healthy to you, it is still better to refuse jumping, and while traveling in the car, hold it in your hands and thus fix the spine.
• Two-thirds of a basset's weight is in the front of the torso. This practically prevents the dog from swimming.

Basset Hound (English Basset Hound) is a breed of hound dogs, despite the fact that they have short legs. They were originally used for hunting foxes and badgers and are second only to bloodhounds in sense of smell. The name of the breed comes from the French “bas” - low and “hound” - hound.

• Like all hounds, they are stubborn and difficult to train. It is advisable to give them to professional trainers.

• If the dog catches an interesting smell, it will follow it, no matter how dangerous it is. Always walk your dog on a leash and keep it securely fenced in, plus take a dog obedience course.

• One of the main reasons owners get rid of their dog is because they are slobbering. In addition, due to the nature of the skin around the mouth, they splatter a lot when they drink. If you are squeamish or very clean, it is better to look for another breed.

• They often suffer from flatulence, if this annoys you, then talk to your veterinarian, or change your diet.

• They love to eat, overeat and are often obese. In this case, problems with the joints and spine may begin.

• Long, drooping ears should be examined and cleaned weekly to avoid infection. Sometimes even more often, as during active walks, dirt gets into them.

• They may howl loudly, especially if left alone for a long time.

History of the breed

The true history of the breed began in 1870, when the first dogs came to England. But the first mention of dogs, similar to Basset, was in the illustrated text about hunting "La Venerie", written by Jacques du Fouilloux in 1585.

According to the texts, they were used to hunt foxes and badgers, short legs helped to chase animals in burrows, from where they were then dug up by hunters. The illustrations show dogs with a harsh coat that modern dogs do not have.

However, other hounds of this group have it, for example, have. It can be seen that these dogs are still only in the period of formation, and, most likely, they appeared several decades earlier, and possibly more.

The first appearance of these dogs in America dates back to the reign of George Washington, when he was presented with several puppies as a gift.

It is believed that they were bred as an alternative to larger hounds, so that hunters can pursue prey on foot, not just on horseback. Hunting, that's what they were used for from their inception until they became popular.

The Basset Hounds are descended from the Basset Artesian Norman, the origin of which is unclear. It is believed that they are descended from bloodhounds, and this seems to be true, since both breeds have drooping ears and a sad expression on the muzzle.

The popularity of these dogs increased significantly with the beginning of the French Revolution, as we remember, the breed was bred so that the hunter could follow them on foot, getting where the horse cannot pass.

Before the French Revolution, hunting was a privilege of the nobility, but after that it quickly spread to the lower classes.

Representatives of these classes could afford one or two hounds, but not a horse, which made the hounds of this species very popular. The number of dogs is starting to increase just as the number of other dog breeds in France is falling steadily.

So, let's leave the confusing origin story and get back to the exact data. The modern history of the breed begins with the reign of Napoleon III, from 1852 to 1870.

The emperor was so fond of the artesian-Norman bassets that after a year of his reign he ordered a bronze statue of a dog from the sculptor. In 1863 they participated in the Paris Dog Show, where they received international fame, and for fame and popularity in other countries.

They first came to England in 1866, when Lord Galway brought them from Paris, but they did not receive the proper fame. In 1876 Sir John Everett Millais began to import bassets from France, and being a passionate hunter popularized them widely and is today considered the founder of the breed.

Basset Artesian Norman is growing in popularity like an avalanche, and in England they become known as Basset Hounds. Within a few years there are enough owners and breeders.

But, they are poorly versed in the breeds of imported dogs, and sometimes they cross different ones. This creates confusion where fashion and popularity play a role.

As a result, English breeders decide that they need to create a larger and heavier hound, for this they cross them with bloodhounds. And after fifty years, they are already significantly different from the artesian-Norman, being a new, modern breed.

They arrived in the United States at the end of the 19th century, initially as show animals, but quickly gained popularity among hunters. To this day, Basset Hound hunting is popular in the states of Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania.

The American Kennel Club registers the breed in 1885, one year after its inception. British Kennel Club in 1928. Basset Hound Club of America, founded in 1933.

Their comical appearance makes dogs heroes of cartoons, movies and magazines. In the same America, fame with him came after February 27, 1928, when the Times magazine posted a photo of the dog on the front page.

The traits of this breed are guessed in Droopy, the character of the Disney cartoon, dogs regularly appear in feature films.

Description

One of the most recognizable breeds in the world, thanks to its unique appearance and regular appearance in the media. They are recognized by their long body, short legs, sad expression, wrinkled muzzle and drooping ears.

One of the most striking features of the breed is its short stature. They were bred specifically for hunting, where the hunter would be on foot, not on horseback, and the dog was not very fast. Height at withers no more: 33-38 cm, dogs above are not allowed to participate in show rings and are excluded from breeding.

Their short stature is deceiving and most believe that they are small dogs. However, they are surprisingly heavy and strong, to be convinced of this, it is enough to try to lift the dog. Unlike other breeds, the breed standard (AKC and UKC) does not describe the weight of the dog, probably because its height is much more important. Most of them weigh between 22 and 27 kg.

The ancestors of the breed for centuries were exclusively hounds, which affected the appearance of the breed.

They have a very long snout and nose, which gives a large area for the receptors responsible for smell, plus allows the dog to keep his nose as close to the ground as possible.

They also have a wrinkled face, and these wrinkles are believed to help capture and retain odor, which is scientifically highly questionable. By the way, they say the same about the ears, they say they adjust the smells closer to the nose.

These wrinkles thickly cover the face and neck, giving dogs a sad expression. The eyes should be dark in color, light is undesirable. The conjunctiva of the lower eyelid is visible, but not too much.

Basset hounds are much longer in length than in height; in fact, they are a large representative of the family, but on short legs. Their paws may be crooked, but not so much as to interfere with movement or working qualities. Their skin is abundant, drooping, a current expression betraying the dog.

However, underneath it hides a muscular and strong body, which is what a hunting dog should have. Their tail is long, usually raised and tilted slightly forward, resembling a saber in shape.

The coat is short and smooth, any color recognized by hounds is admissible. It is usually three-colored, the shape and location of the spots do not matter.

Character

The Basset Hounds are known as one of the softest and most calm dog breeds, they are very rarely aggressive and usually very friendly. They are great friends for children, if only to teach the latter not to drag the dog by the long ears and wrinkled skin.

If you are looking for a pet dog for a large family with children, then you've come to the right place. If the watchman, then this is not the case.

Basset hounds get along well with other dogs, as they usually hunt in a pack. They can be slightly dominant, especially during feeding, but they practically do not show aggression towards other dogs. However, each dog has its own character and it is worth relying on a general description, check everything yourself.

Unlike other hunting dog breeds, Basset Hounds chase prey, but never attack. This means that they get along well with other pets. However, they are still dogs and can chase animals outside the home. To avoid this behavior, you need to socialize the puppy from an early age, introduce him to cats, rabbits, hamsters and other small animals.

Being gentle and not nasty towards others does not mean that Basset Hounds are easy to train, quite the opposite. They have the reputation of being one of the hardest breeds to train. They learn very quickly to track and chase prey, but in general they are very difficult.

They are built to stalk prey for long hours, and are very stubborn as a result. It's incredibly difficult to get him to do what he doesn't like.

This does not mean that they are unteachable, but you will need significantly more time and patience than with any other breed of dog. In addition, the result may not be at all what you expected. Even the most well-trained dogs exhibit high selective hearing skills.

They hear the command, understand what they want from them, but continue to do their job. If you are looking for a dog that will perform tricks, then look for another breed.

If you want to raise a dog, then be sure to prepare tasty, they love to eat and eat everything that their sensitive nose will lead to. It is enough to hold one of the treats, and the dog will show how smart it is when it wants.

These dogs were bred to track and chase the beast, and in these tasks Basset Hounds are great. Having taken the trail, they tirelessly walk along it, sometimes for hours and it is impossible to tear them away from this activity. Carried away by the smell, they can forget about everything and ignore all the commands.

This means that when walking it is very, very important to keep the dog on a leash, and in the yard only on condition that there is nowhere to run away. And although they are not the most dexterous escape masters, they are tough and good at digging. Consider this if the dog lives in your yard.

Many owners say that basset hounds are sloths, which they regularly prove by lying on their favorite rug. However, they are able to follow the trail for hours, and this requires endurance and endurance.

Although they require less exercise than other dogs, it is important to stay in good shape, as they are prone to obesity. And yes, they are non-destructive, but bored ones can chew on furniture or bark all day long.

There is another feature of their character that future owners should be aware of - they are quite vocal and can be very loud. On the hunt, by barking, they warn hunters, and modern dogs behave the same way.

Most owners are not prepared for their dogs to bark loudly, let alone their neighbors.

Care

They practically do not need professional grooming, regular brushing, that's all hair care. However, some of them shed very heavily, and the fur will roll all over the house. In addition, they are very drooling, you will be slobbering, just like your furniture.

You will often see a mixture of saliva and wool, plus they smell quite strong and often suffer from flatulence. In general, this is not an "aristocratic" dog, and if you are extremely clean or squeamish, then it is better to choose another breed.

puppy

Despite being unpretentious in grooming, the Basset Hound needs hygiene in other things. Their droopy ears and folds of skin become a haven for infections and dirt, which means they need to be cleaned and checked regularly.

And since a rare dog likes it, the process can be tricky given the breed's stubbornness. It is recommended that you start training your puppy as early as possible and always treat him with a treat afterwards.

Health

Like other breeds, in the selection of which a person took part, they suffer from various diseases. According to a study by the British Kennel Club, the average lifespan of these dogs is 11 years. The main cause of death is cancer (31%), then old age (13%), cardiac problems (11%).

Take a look:

The Basset Hound is a dog with an original appearance, a kind of squat melancholic with sad eyes, whom one just wants to feel sorry for. But isn't this appearance deceiving? What are the representatives of this breed really? It is imperative to find out before this cutie appears in the house.

The name of the breed speaks for itself, because in translation it means "low hound". The history of Basset Hounds is deep enough and stretches back to Ancient Egypt. The first mentions of powerful dogs with short legs were found there. Then the remains of the ancestors of these animals were found in Sakkara (Egypt). In Ancient Rome and Greece, similar dogs were also known, this was confirmed by the excavation data.

Short-legged hounds were bred in France in the Benedictine abbey of Saint Hubert in the 6th century. This became the point of the subsequent distribution of the breed throughout all European countries. Several representatives even reached Constantinople.

The first mention of basset hounds was discovered at the end of the 16th century, among pictures of hunting. At that time, hunting with dogs on horseback was available only to the aristocratic circle. Needless to say, animals suitable for these purposes were very expensive and Basset breeding was taken very seriously, selecting the most worthy individuals for breeding.

The Great French Revolution negatively affected the development of the breed, but under Napoleon III, Basset breeding flourished. Breeding came under control in the 70s of the 19th century, at the same time these hounds came to the territory of Great Britain.

Basset hound puppy photo

The British did not stand aside and contributed to the breed qualities of these dogs. By crossing hounds, they increased their body weight and made them more powerful. Another direction of breeding was aimed at crossing bassets from France and England. The breed standard was approved at the end of the 19th century, and it was updated in 2010.

Description of the Basset Hound breed

The characteristics of the Basset Hound are quite interesting. As already noted, Basset Hounds are low hounds. This name is associated with their unique complexion with a heavy bone frame covered with muscles. They have a large torso and short, strong limbs.

• At weight 23-30 kg, height they vary from 33 to 38 cm. Such a height-weight ratio in medicine has its own name - achondroplasia, that is, dwarfism. However, in this case, it is the norm and does not require medical intervention. In addition, being the breed standard, such a constitution sets Basset apart from other tetrapods. Most of the weight comes from the front of the dog's body. And the lack of balance prevents dogs from swimming.
• Hounds have a very sharp scent, this is not surprising, given the purpose of the breed. In this they are helped by the ears, which, as it were, "lift" the aromas from the ground to the animal's nose. Their hunting sense of smell can compete with the scent of sniffer dogs. The rest of the breeds lag significantly behind in this regard.
• Scull Basset is round in shape. The abundance of skin in the muzzle area forms folds. It is this feature that gives the dog a sad look and, according to many owners, a certain charm and mystery.
• Basset hounds still have strong hunting instincts and in their habit of jumping off the spot for the intended prey. So their lazy and imposing look is deceiving. Excess skin, as well as long ears that hang down to the ground, allow dogs not only to smell the game, but also to overtake. Naturally, such qualities of hounds were fully appreciated by hunters.
• With short limbs, dogs cannot develop high speeds like other large dogs. But thanks to this feature, dogs can sneak up and suddenly attack.
• Basset hounds are long enough tail with a white tip that allows you to see the dog even at great distances, in bushes or tall grasses.
• Wool cover in low hounds, it is smooth and short, the disadvantage is the year-round molt. Wool has a special oily coating with a specific odor, and you do not need to try to eliminate this feature by frequent washing.

Basset colors

Basset character

In appearance, these dogs are docile and phlegmatic, however, in fact, bassets are rare stubborn and they are great at prying their owners out of themselves. But this does not prevent them from being affectionate and loyal companions.

Designed for collective hunting, dogs are suitable for living in a large family, do not show aggression, and often make friendly relations with other pets. But there are certain limitations here, since small rodents and rabbits are the subject of hunting for Bassets.

Bassetts are excellent nannies. Despite the seeming awkwardness, they never knock children down and are very attentive to them. One has only to whistle and the dog will join any game and will get real pleasure from spending time together.

Many owners confirm that bassets are real aristocrats. They behave with dignity in public, and they like the attention of others, especially when it comes to competitions and exhibitions.

But their "blue blood" is manifested not only in behavior, but also in character, and not from the best side. They appreciate their importance and their own opinion, so they can refuse to complete tasks, even well-known ones. And yes, like the rest of the hounds, Basset Hounds are very difficult to give in.

Dogs have a loud voice, like large, tall animals. This quality can be of poor service when the dog is left alone. At first, he can bark, after which he will switch to damage to property. This once again confirms that basset hounds are companionable dogs.

In the first place among the favorite pastime of the hounds is hunting. But even in urban settings, you can captivate your pet by offering a long walk in a forest area or park, or an active game.

Basset care and conditions of detention

Bassetts are special dogs that require special attention in some matters. For example, short legs result in more contamination of the coat than in other breeds. Therefore, there is a need for warming the pet in winter, clothes for damp weather and more frequent washing.

The elongated body makes the spine a vulnerable spot, so it is important to protect your pet from high jumps, long descents and climbing stairs. at least once every 3-4 days using a cotton swab or napkin.

Bassetts are permanent, however, their eyes are not susceptible to frequent diseases. As a care, it is enough to rinse them periodically with chamomile broth. These dogs can drool, so it is recommended to wipe off salivary secretions from the muzzle, as well as dust and dirt.

As already noted, Basset Hounds have a special "flavor", but they are not fans. They should be taught to this hygienic procedure from puppyhood and then bathed a couple of times a month.

When starting a pet of this breed, you need to be prepared for the daily, as Basset sheds constantly. A brush or massage comb is suitable as a tool, it is better if its bristles are natural. The duration of one procedure is on average 7 minutes, so there are no particular difficulties.

Another regular procedure - it is carried out 1 time in 2-4 weeks. Adult bassets are walked twice a day. The time allotted for a walk should be about half an hour, be sure to be accompanied by play and jogging.

Dog breed basset hound photo

Given the hunting predilections, you should not take your pet off a leash or entrust this business to children, as the dog can run after prey and get lost.