Originally from France, the "bas-set" ("low-set") was developed as a hunting hound that could be followed on foot. By the 1700's Basset Hounds were used extensively throughout France, differing somewhat in appearance from province to province. It is believed that at about this time, George Washington received a pair of Bassets as a gift, and in the 1800's Bassets were exported to England and then to the United States.
THE BASSET is heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed. His temperament is mild, his devotion extreme. His scenting ability, second only to the Bloodhound, has made him an exceptional hunting and trailing dog. His long ears, facial wrinkles, deep muzzle and dewlaps help trap and hold the scent. Sturdy legs and loose skin help him track through thorny brambles and difficult terrain. While these characteristics might make him amusing in appearance, they are also functional.
BASSETS HAVE EASY-GOING TEMPERAMENTS, making both males and females excellent pets. They are strong willed and intelligent, using these traits to their advantage. They are willing dogs as long as what you wish of them is what they intended to do in the first place. Otherwise, you may begin to think your dog has a hearing problem. Patience, lots of praise, tenderness and perseverance (plus a cookie) work wonders.
TRAIN YOUR BASSET based on the premise that you are smarter than your dog. They do not take well to harsh treatment, and usually just the tone of your voice of a slight tap on the rump with a folded newspaper will do the trick. Most important, don't forget to PRAISE YOUR DOG when he pleases you!...we're all so good at telling our kids and dogs when they're wrong, but forget to praise them when they're right.
BASSET HOUNDS LOVE to be loved, and need to be part of a family. If left alone for any length of time during the day, consider another dog or a cat to keep your dog company. Boredom can lead your Basset to your favorite rose bush, the sprinkler system, etc. They do not need a huge yard or high fence, but their hunting instinct can get them into serious trouble unless they are confined to home or a fenced yard. They firmly believe that they have the right-of-way in any kind of traffic dispute. The best invention since popcorn is the dog door. A wonderful aid in house training, a mind-relaxer, knowing that your dog can get into the house in bad weather or if you're delayed in getting home, sudden thunderstorms, fireworks, etc. Of course, this means you need a fully enclosed yard!
ARE BASSETS DIFFERENT? Yes! Many people think of the Basset as a small dog...they are not. A "small" Basset might weigh 35 lbs., an average one 50 Lbs., and there are even "large" Bassets weighing in at 65-70 Lbs. They are prone to obesity, particularly after age 4 or 5. Feed only a high quality food and watch those treats! The Basset does not need fussy coat care, but because they tend to shed year-round they should be brushed at least weekly. The inside of the ears need to be cleaned...their heavy ear leather prevents loss of moisture from inside the ear. The outside of the ear will collect more dirt than other dogs because the ears fall into the water and feed bowls and then drag along the ground. Nails are tough...like a Great Dane! They should be trimmed every two weeks. Trimming every two weeks is so much easier on both of you! AND DON'T FORGET THE YEARLY INOCULATIONS!! Have your vet do a fecal check twice a year, and talk to your vet about heartworm in your area.
IT'S HARD TO BE HUMBLE WHEN YOU OWN A BASSET HOUND!!
I add the following comments from Victor Manuel Salgado, from Mexico:Talking about Bassets
When you see a Basset Hound, you note that his aspect is an exact reflex of his character. A Basset doesn't look like any other dog: doesn't stare, nor act as any other, is simply very special, is tipically Basset and nothing else, devoted, stubborn and full of love.
In any moment he has the sensation that he is a dog, certainly not: he thinks, feels and is assured of being a person like you and me, and therefore, with the same rights, priorities and considerations that you and me deserve.
Quando ele está dormindo sossegadamente, ainda que no meio do aposento e você quer passar, crê que ele vai se mover? A única resposta é NÃO! Você poderá tentar, mas não vai alterar sua cômoda posição; afinal, quem quer passar é você, não? E direito por direito, ele chegou primeiro.
It is said that dogs don't think, but that is about dogs. Bassets are something else, once they can do it and do it well: they are able to dissimulate, to feel when his owner is depressed or sad, as wishing to say, whatever happens I am here, just by your side.
And when he gets into the car? The best place is his, surely.
His weakness is food, don't try to give him food until he is full, you'll get tired before knowing he is full or not. It isn't for nothing that their are so large.
Taken from "Basset Hound - A Profile" - Guardian Angel Basset Rescue, by John Ryan.
