Basset Hound
Great Britain, Scent hounds
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 33–38 cm
- Weight
- 18–27 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Gentle
- Easy-going
- Stubborn
- Affectionate
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a short-legged scent hound from Great Britain, derived from French basset stock and used to track hare and other game at a walking pace. It has a long body, heavy bone, a long head with droopy lips and long, low-set ears, and loose skin with wrinkles. It has an outstanding sense of smell.
Temperament
Gentle, easy-going and affectionate, usually good with children and other dogs. Strongly driven by scent and often stubborn, so training takes patience. Can be vocal and may follow a scent regardless of calls.
Exercise
Needs regular, moderate walks, with time to sniff. Avoid excessive jumping and strenuous activity for puppies.
Grooming
Short, smooth coat needs weekly brushing. Clean skin folds, ears and around the mouth.
Care & wellbeing
Weight control is important to protect the back and joints. Long ears and skin folds need regular cleaning.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 30–60 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Basset Hound
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A short-legged scent hound developed in Britain from French hound types for tracking hare and rabbit on foot. Famous for its keen nose, long ears and sad expression, it is gentle and sociable but can be stubborn and easily led by scent.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Ear infections
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
Not every Basset Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Basset Hound right for you?
Could suit
- Calmer households and owners who prefer gentle walks
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Basset Hound get?
Adult Basset Hounds typically stand about 33–38 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–27 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Basset Hounds live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Basset Hound need?
As a guide, around 30–60 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Basset Hound need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Basset Hounds easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Basset Hounds shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Basset Hounds good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Basset Hound live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Basset Hounds have?
The breed can be prone to intervertebral disc disease, ear infections, hip and elbow dysplasia. Not every Basset Hound is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1955