Lochaber Pups

BASSET HOUND INFO

Known as the "Hush Puppy" dog they have the head of a bloodhound and the body of a dachshund.  The Basset Hound is a short-legged dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed of dog.  Movement is humorous looking and slow, but not clumsy.  Basset Hounds are mild, never sharp or timid in manner but sometimes can be stubborn.  They also can be vocal at times with their charming deep, sonorous bark.  A lovely and amusing household pet for people with a good sense of humor.  The Basset Hound is essentially a hunting dog with strong natural instincts and will power.  Absolutely obedient and devoted to their master, they make a wonderful family companion.

Height: 13 - 15"
Weight: 40 - 60 lbs.

Colors: Generally black, white and tan, but occasionally lemon
Coat: Hard, smooth, short and dense

Temperament: Basset Hounds are independent, good natured, sociable, gentle

     With Children: Yes, delightful pet to children

     With Pets:  May show dominance to other male dogs

Special Skills: Scent hound and family pet

Watch-dog:  High, suspicious of strangers

Guard-dog:  Low

Care and Training: Minimal grooming of the Basset Hounds coat  is needed.  They can be massaged or brushed gently to remove dead hairs.  Careful attention should be paid to their long ears.  They should be taught basic obedience during their early age as they can be self-willed and when their natural scenting ability tempt them, they will go off in hot pursuit.  Plenty of moderate exercise will help keep them fit and trim.

Learning Rate: Medium

Obedience:  Medium

Problem-Solving:  Low

Activity:  Indoors - Low; Outdoors - Medium

Living Environment:  Will do well in a house or apartment as they are very sedentary indoors, but they will enjoy outdoor activities.  Daily exercise will help to prevent obesity.

Health Issues:  Tends to be obese, but this can be controlled with proper diet.  Obesity can cause spine and leg problems.  Ears are susceptible to infections.  May suffer from bloat and skin infections.  Puppies are often delivered by cesarean section.

Life Span:  10 - 12 years

Litter Size:  8 - 10

Country of Origin:  France

History:  Basset Hounds appear to have origins that date back to the sixteenth century when French stag hounds were bred to short legged hounds.  The French word "basset" means "low set."  The Basset Hound can be traced to crossing of the Basset d'Artois and the Basset Normand.  In 1866 they were introduced into Britain.  In 1892, they were crossed with Bloodhound which made slight changes to the appearance of the breed.

First Registered in the AKC:  1885

AKC Group:  Hound

Class:  Hound

Registries:  AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 6), KC (GB)

The above info was taken from PuppyDogWeb.com