About Bassets
Origin
The Basset Hound originated in medieval France and was a popular hunting dog. "Basset" was used to describe a breed of dog with short legs. The Basset Hound was a favored hunting dog because it was a slower moving hound that could more easily be followed on foot and was useful in tracking small game.
Temperament & Personality
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The basset is a very loving dog that loves to be with his humans - very social. They are very affectionate and thrive on human contact. They need to be a family member and not just a pet.
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They don't do well as only pets at all.
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They are also calm, mild mannered, and gentle but a high maintenance breed.
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They enjoy the company of other pets and may even get lonely if frequently left alone for long periods of time.
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Bassets are not dogs that just lie and sleep all day, especially the younger ones. They need daily attention and quality time with their owners.
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They are best suited to sleep indoors at night. They think they own the couch and bed.
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Basset Hounds can be sensitive and will get upset when scolded. At times they may behave as though they don't hear your commands. They are known to be stubborn and their ears are just ornaments. Positive reinforcement works best.
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If misunderstood they can come across as disobedient. If they are naughty, hitting them is not recommended. Rather a stern talking too. They are more like small children than dogs.
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Basset Hounds have unique voices. They are very vocal when playing, greeting you and at feeding time. They also have a unique, murmuring whine that they use when they want attention or are begging for food.
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Because of the loose skin around their mouths, bassets drool. They tend to make quite a mess when they drink. If you're a fastidious housekeeper who can't stand drool, a Basset Hound is not the best choice for you.
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Pups are a handful up until 2 - 2 and half years.
Feeding
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Bassets will eat anything they can get their teeth into. Please be sure to keep cleaning materials and poison well out of rich and preferably locked away.
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Masters at stealing food, so one needs to keep an eye as they will always "appear" to be hungry.
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Because bassets are greedy eaters, it’s best to keep them separated at first when feeding.
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Please NO BONES.
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Bassets gulp their food and therefore prone to bloating. Give small amounts of a good pet food two or three times a day. A slow feeding bowl will also be beneficial.
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Your basset will try to steel food from the table and counters - do not leave any food standing unattended.
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Do not let your basset self-feed as they are prone to obesity and that is bad for their health and build.
Grooming
​Brushing your basset once or twice a week is sufficient. Bassets do shed and brushing will limit the amount of shedding.