Basset Hound Pros and Cons: An In-Depth Look at the Breed

If you‘re considering adding a basset hound to your family, you‘re not alone. These distinctive dogs with their short legs, long ears, and droopy expressions have captured the hearts of many dog lovers over the years. According to the American Kennel Club, basset hounds consistently rank among the top 40 most popular breeds in the United States, coming in at #39 out of 195 breeds in 2021.

But what is it really like to live with a basset hound? As with any breed, these dogs have their own unique set of strengths and challenges. In this article, we‘ll take an in-depth look at basset hound pros and cons to help you decide if this is the right breed for you.

Basset Hound History and Characteristics

First, let‘s cover some basics about where basset hounds come from and what defines the breed. Basset hounds are an old breed thought to have originated in France as early as the 1500s. They were developed by monks of the Abbey of St. Hubert as low-built hunting dogs capable of tracking small game like rabbits and hares through dense underbrush.

The short legs of the basset hound served a specific purpose: they allowed the dogs to follow scent trails under logs and low-hanging shrubs where larger dogs couldn‘t fit. At the same time, their heavier bone structure gives them a strength and sturdiness that belies their size. A large male basset hound can weigh up to 65 pounds.

Over the centuries, basset hounds became prized not only for their scenting abilities, but also for their gentle, affectionate demeanors. They were brought to America in the late 1800s and recognized by the AKC in 1885. Though no longer widely used as hunting companions, modern basset hounds have maintained the physical characteristics and temperaments that defined their ancestors.

So what makes a basset hound a basset hound? The breed standard describes a low, long, and substantial dog, with short legs, a large head, pronounced eyebrows, and "extremely long, low-set, velvety ears." Coat colors are typically black, tan, and white, or lemon and white. But perhaps their most defining feature is that incredible basset nose – second only to bloodhounds in scenting abilities.

Basset Hound Pros

So what are the arguments in favor of basset hounds? Let‘s look at some of the breed‘s most appealing qualities and what the research and experts have to say.

1. Affectionate, gentle companions

One of the biggest pros of basset hounds is their sweet, gentle, and affectionate nature. Bassets are known for being very patient and tolerant, even with young children and other pets. They typically love everyone they meet and are not known for aggression or biting.

According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, basset hounds score high on measures of sociability towards people and other dogs, and low on measures of aggression or fear. The breed also tends to form strong attachments to their families. As one long-time basset owner puts it, "They are the most loving, devoted dogs. They just want to be with you all the time and soak up as much affection as they can get!"

Beryl Shuttleworth, a British basset hound breeder with over 50 years of experience, echoes this sentiment. "Bassets are the clowns of the dog world," she says. "They live to love and be loved. They have a marvelous sense of humor and a real joy for life."

2. Low-energy and adaptable

Another major pro of basset hounds is that they are a relatively low-energy breed with moderate exercise needs. While all dogs need daily walks and playtime for their physical and mental health, bassets don‘t require hours of intense activity. A couple of 30-minute walks per day and some indoor playtime is typically sufficient.

This lower energy level, combined with their generally quiet demeanor (when not on a scent trail!), makes basset hounds surprisingly adaptable to apartment living and smaller spaces. They are not known for being excessive barkers, and they often prefer lounging on a comfy couch to zooming around the yard.

Of course, this doesn‘t mean bassets should be couch potatoes. Regular exercise is still important to keep them fit and healthy. But compared to high-energy working breeds, the basset‘s exercise needs are very manageable for most households.

3. Scenting superstars

For owners interested in dog sports or nose work, the basset hound‘s incredible sense of smell is a huge asset. Bassets have over 220 million scent receptors in their noses, compared to about 5 million in humans. This allows them to detect and follow even the faintest of scent trails.

Historically, basset hounds were used to track rabbits, hares, and other small game through dense vegetation. Today, their noses can be put to work in a variety of scent-based activities and sports such as tracking, search and rescue, and detection of everything from truffles to bed bugs.

Even if you don‘t plan to compete with your basset hound, their impressive noses can provide endless entertainment. Many owners report their bassets following scent trails in the backyard for hours or determinedly pursuing any dropped crumb of food in the house. Just be sure to always keep your basset on a leash or in a securely fenced area, as they WILL follow their noses without regard for dangers or boundaries!

4. Adorably distinctive appearance

Okay, we have to talk about the cuteness factor. With their short legs, long velvety ears, and soulful droopy expressions, basset hounds are undeniably adorable. In fact, the basset‘s distinctive look has made them a popular mascot and advertising icon over the years. The Hush Puppy shoe brand has used a basset as their logo since 1958!

Of course, cuteness alone is not a reason to choose a breed. But for many dog lovers, the basset‘s unique appearance is a big part of their charm. There‘s just something endearing about seeing a pack of low-riding, earnest-faced bassets on a group walk or watching those floppy ears blow in the wind.

As one basset owner gushes, "I never get tired of looking at them. They are just so comical and cute, even when they are being stubborn or getting into trouble. Those faces always make me smile."

Basset Hound Cons

As much as we love basset hounds, no breed is perfect. Here are some of the potential downsides and challenges of basset ownership.

1. Stubbornness and training challenges

The basset hound‘s keen nose and independent nature, so valuable in a hunting companion, can make them challenging to train as family pets. Bassets are very intelligent but not always eager to please. Once they catch a scent, they can be singularly focused and difficult to redirect.

According to professional dog trainer Pat Miller, "Bassets can be a challenge to train. They are easily distracted by scents and not particularly motivated to work for praise or toys. You need to find a really high-value food reward and be very patient and consistent."

Positive reinforcement methods using treats, praise, and play are most effective with basset hounds. Harsh corrections or punishment are likely to backfire and damage your relationship. Even with excellent training, however, bassets may never be as responsive or obedient as some other breeds.

A 2019 survey by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine found that basset hounds ranked among the least obedient breeds based on owner-reported behavior issues like ignoring commands, pulling on the leash, and difficulty with house training. However, the breed scored very well on measures of affection and low aggression.

2. Howling and potential for wandering

Another potential issue with basset hounds is their penchant for howling, especially when left alone or bored. That distinctive basset baying can be very loud and is often compared to the sound of a foghorn! This can be problematic for apartment dwellers or those with noise-sensitive neighbors.

According to a study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, howling is one of the most common behavior issues reported by basset hound owners. The study found that 68% of bassets showed signs of separation anxiety, often manifesting as prolonged howling, when left alone.

Basset hounds are also notorious for wandering off to follow interesting scents. Their noses and curiosity can easily get them into trouble if they are not kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area. The last thing any owner wants is their beloved basset taking off into the woods or a busy street in pursuit of a rabbit trail. Microchipping and always keeping ID tags on your dog is a must.

3. Health concerns and grooming needs

While basset hounds are generally a healthy breed, they can be prone to certain health issues related to their unique physiology. According to the Basset Hound Club of America Health Survey, the most common health concerns in the breed include:

• Ear infections – The basset‘s long, floppy ears are adorable but can easily trap moisture and debris, leading to painful infections if not kept clean and dry. Regular ear cleaning is a must for basset owners.

• Back problems – The basset‘s elongated spine and short legs put stress on their vertebrae and discs. They are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can cause pain, weakness, and even paralysis in severe cases. Keeping your basset fit and at a healthy weight is critical to reduce strain on their back.

• Obesity – Basset hounds gain weight very easily and love to eat! According to a 2014 study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over 58% of basset hounds in the study were classified as overweight or obese. Extra weight puts additional strain on their joints and backs and increases risk for a host of other health problems. Free feeding is not recommended for this breed. A veterinarian should guide the appropriate amount and type of food.

• Bleeding disorders – The basset hound is one of several breeds prone to von Willebrand‘s disease and other inherited bleeding disorders. A DNA test is available to screen for affected dogs and carriers.

• Eye problems – Due to their droopy jowls and eyelids, bassets are prone to conditions like cherry eye, ectropion, and entropion. Their eyes are also sensitive to dryness and irritation.

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat) – Like other deep-chested breeds, basset hounds are at increased risk for this life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, and weakness.

In terms of lifespan, the average basset hound lives between 10-12 years according to most estimates. This is on par with the median lifespan of 11 years for all purebred dogs. Of course, many factors like genetics, diet, environment and preventive care affect an individual dog‘s life expectancy.

Grooming-wise, basset hounds have some intensive needs despite their short coats. They shed quite a bit and require weekly brushing to minimize hair in the home. More critically, their long ears need frequent cleaning to prevent infections, and their skin folds and wrinkles must be kept dry and free of irritation. Many basset owners find they must wipe their dog‘s face, ears, and skin folds daily.

Basset hounds are also prone to drooling and tend to have a distinct "hound odor" that not everyone enjoys. While proper hygiene can help, some level of slobber and smell tends to come with the basset package!

4. Not the easiest breed for first-time owners

Given some of the above traits and needs, many breeders and trainers caution that basset hounds may not be the best choice for first-time or novice dog owners. Their stubbornness, training challenges, grooming requirements and potential health issues can be a lot for an inexperienced owner to manage.

Megan Tremelling is a certified professional dog trainer and owner of Pack Potential Dog Training in Denver, CO. She explains, "Bassets are really cute and appealing, but a lot of people underestimate what they are getting into. They can be a real challenge without prior experience in positive training and dealing with scent-motivated behaviors."

Tremelling says she often gets calls from overwhelmed basset owners struggling with house training or destructive chewing and digging. Her advice is to do extensive research on the breed and spend time with bassets in person before deciding to bring one home.

"Talk to owners, breeders and rescues. Go to a dog show and watch the bassets in action," she says. "Make sure you understand their physical needs and what makes them tick. They are definitely not the breed for everyone, but for the right person, they are incredible dogs."

Conclusion

In summary, basset hounds have both significant pros and cons as companions:

Pros:

• Incredibly affectionate, sweet and gentle demeanor
• Friendly with kids, other dogs, and even cats
• Relatively low-energy and adaptable to smaller homes
• Don‘t require extensive exercise – a couple daily walks will do
• Amazing scenting abilities for tracking, nose work, and fun
• Unique and adorably distinctive appearance

Cons:

• Can be very stubborn and challenging to train
• Will follow their nose and wander if given the chance
• Prone to loud howling and baying, especially if left alone
• Shed quite a bit and have a distinct "hound odor"
• Can easily become overweight and develop back or joint problems
• Prone to ear infections, eye issues, and some other health concerns
• Drooling and slobbering is part of the package
• May not be the easiest breed for novice owners

Ultimately, the decision to welcome a basset hound into your life is a highly personal one that depends on your experience level, lifestyle, and expectations for a canine companion. These endearing and quirky hounds have certainly captured the hearts of many dog lovers over the years. But they‘ve also frustrated a few with their stubborn streaks and intense grooming needs!

The best way to determine if a basset is right for you is to do your research, talk to experienced owners, and spend time with the breed in person. Visit a breeder or attend a local dog show to observe basset behavior and chat with fanciers of the breed. Many regional basset hound rescue organizations also welcome potential adopters to meet their dogs at events or kennel facilities.

With their clownish personalities, floppy ears, and soulful expressions, basset hounds can make wonderful companions for the right owners. They may not top the obedience trials, but they often win the prize for most lovable dog around. As long as you understand their needs and quirks, you‘ll never find a more loyal or entertaining four-legged friend.