The Basset Hound is one of the most characterful and instantly recognisable breeds in the world — those long pendulous ears, mournful eyes, deep chest, and short legs on a surprisingly heavy frame create a dog of extraordinary visual appeal. Developed in France and Belgium as a low-slung scent hound for hunting hare, the modern Basset is a gentle, affectionate, and comically stubborn companion with a nose second only to the Bloodhound. Their unique anatomy, however, creates a distinctive set of health considerations that require proactive management.
Quick Facts
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-large (33–38 cm / 25–34 kg — deceptively heavy for their height) |
| Coat | Short, smooth, dense — low grooming; weekly brush sufficient |
| Exercise | 1 hour per day — moderate; scenthound enrichment activities recommended |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years (UK median 12.5 years in recent studies) |
| Good for families? | Excellent — gentle, patient, good with children and other dogs |
| Puppy cost (UK 2026) | £800–£1,500 |
| KC group | Hound |
Health — Key Conditions
POAG — Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Basset Hounds are predisposed to POAG — an inherited progressive form of glaucoma where fluid drainage within the eye is impaired, causing gradual pressure build-up:
- Onset typically between 3 and 4 years of age
- Progressive — if untreated, leads to irreversible blindness through optic nerve damage
- Signs: eye redness, squinting, enlarged/bulging eye, cloudiness, behavioural changes indicating vision loss
- DNA test available — ask breeders for POAG DNA test results for both parents. Clear × carrier pairings prevent affected offspring
- Treatment: pressure-reducing eye drops (lifelong), surgical intervention in advanced cases
Thrombopathia
A hereditary platelet disorder causing abnormal blood clotting, almost unique to Basset Hounds and Landseers:
- Platelets don’t function correctly — even though platelet numbers are normal, they cannot aggregate to form effective clots
- Symptoms: spontaneous nosebleeds, bleeding gums, easy bruising, excessive bleeding after surgery or trauma
- Inheritance: autosomal recessive. DNA test available — both parents should be tested
- Management: avoid elective surgery without pre-surgical platelet assessment; inform your vet of the breed’s predisposition before any procedure
IVDD — Back Problems
Like all chondrodystrophic breeds (short-legged with elongated spines), Basset Hounds carry IVDD risk. Their heavy body weight on short legs additionally loads the spine. Apply the same prevention principles as for Dachshunds: weight management, ramps, avoid jumping, use harness not collar.
GDV — Bloat
Deep-chested Basset Hounds are at meaningful GDV risk. Feed 2–3 meals daily; no vigorous exercise around mealtimes. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet.
Ear Management
Basset Hound ears are the longest of any breed — they literally sweep the ground, collecting dirt, debris, and moisture:
- Weekly ear cleaning with veterinary ear cleaner is the minimum
- Dry ears thoroughly after any exposure to water
- Consider ear-length eating solutions (snood or narrow bowl) to prevent ears dipping in food and water
- Untreated chronic ear infections cause pain, hearing loss, and vestibular disease
Obesity Alert
Basset Hounds are enthusiastic eaters and extremely prone to obesity. They are masters at convincing owners they are starving. Excess weight is catastrophic for their spinal health (IVDD) and exacerbates joint problems. Strict portion control and regular weigh-ins are essential — a lean Basset is a healthy Basset.
FAQs
Are Basset Hounds hard to train?
Honestly — yes, by conventional obedience standards. Basset Hounds are intelligent but independently minded. Their scenthound nature means they are deeply scent-driven and will prioritise following a smell over responding to a recall command. They are not disobedient — they are simply driven by a different motivation system. Use food rewards (sparingly given their obesity tendency), keep training sessions short and interesting, and manage expectations. A reliable off-lead recall with a Basset Hound is aspirational rather than expected. Secure spaces for off-lead exercise are important.