We all know that while, choosing a pet dog, various factors have to be taken into consideration. You have to choose the particular dog breed that is best suited for your requirements. In order to select the right dog, you must have a basic understanding of the different dog breeds. This article deals with some Basset Hound information and facts. Basset Hounds are among the popular pet dog breeds and are considered to be ideal for those families with kids and elderly people. If you have any plans to adopt a member of this dog breed, then, the following information may prove useful for you.
Basset Hound Breed Information
It is a known fact that Basset Hounds are well-built dogs with short legs, muscular bodies, droopy ears, loose skin with folds over the face and soft brown eyes. These are a few of the physical features of this dog breed. Go through the rest of the article for some interesting Basset Hound information and facts.
Basset Hound History
Let us start with the history of Basset Hounds. The history of this dog can be traced back to sixteenth-century France, where this dog breed is said to have originated. This dog breed is believed to be a cross between the Bloodhound and Basset Artésien Normand (a short and straight-legged dog breed). In fact, the name Basset hound is derived from the French word ‘bas’ that means low, referring to the short stature of the dog. As they were small and slow-moving, Basset Hounds were ideal as companion dogs, while hunting. With time, they got popular with the elite class of the country. In 1886, a pair was imported to England, where the breed got recognition from the kennel club in 1882. In the U.S., the breed was recognized in 1885. Today, it is one of the popular dog breeds across the globe, for its gentle and loving nature. They are sometimes referred to as hush puppies, as this dog breed is the logo of the famous footwear brand called ‘Hush Puppies’.
Basset Hound: Physical Features
Even though, they are short, Basset Hounds cannot be considered as small dogs, as they have a long well-built muscular body. They have a maximum height of around a foot and their body weight may range between 15 to 35 kilograms. There is no specific color standards for this dog breed, but, they are usually found in a combination of black, white, red, tan, honey, light brown, lemon, etc. They have a short-haired coat that is short and smooth, but, some of these dogs may sport rough hair too. This dog has a short and strong neck with loose skin folds known as dewlap. The skin on the face is loose, forming folds and wrinkles. They have long, curvy and upright tail. The tail of a Basset hound is found to be tapering with white tips. Their legs are short, but strong and have large paws.
Personality of Basset Hounds
Basset hounds have a friendly and gentle nature. They are intelligent, social, loyal and peaceful. These dogs love to spend time with family, especially kids and are also found to be gentle to strangers. As compared to most of the other dog breeds, Basset Hounds are said to be the least aggressive ones. Even the male dogs of this breed are found to be non-aggressive in nature. They get along well with other dogs and pets. They may get lazy at times and tend to rest and sleep. This may lead to obesity and so, it is very much necessary to control their diet and take them for exercising. Sometimes, you may find them to be stubborn too. They may also become sensitive at times. As they love roaming, there are chances that they wander away from home. So, keep them in fenced areas. Make sure to leash the dog, when you take it out for a walk. They may emit howling sounds, if left alone for longer periods, and some of them may also drool a lot.
Basset Hound Care
Basset hounds are found to have a lifespan of around ten to twelve years and if taken care of properly, they may live beyond that. As they are prone to obesity, make sure that they get some daily exercise. They are also prone to ear and eye problems. So, regular monitoring will be beneficial in preventing conditions affecting these organs. As they drool a lot, yeast infections around the mouth may also occur. Another point to note is that they should not be allowed to jump, as this may cause injury to the hips or spine. These dogs are very hard to train, and may take too much of your time. They shed a lot, but, daily grooming may not be required.
The above said is a brief overview about Basset Hound information and facts. If you are planning to adopt one as pet, then, make sure that this dog breed is perfect as per your requirements. If you are looking for a loving and gentle companion, then, this dog can be one of the options. But, consider other such dog breeds as well, before choosing the right one.
