Basset Hound — size comparison

The Basset Hound has a long, substantial body on very short legs. Long ears hang low beside the head, and loose skin forms folds above the eyes and around the muzzle. Its short coat reveals its strong build. Movement is unhurried but enduring, and its large nose stays close to the ground when investigating an interesting trail.

The breed developed in Britain from French bassets. These low-slung scent hounds enabled hunting on foot: they followed game persistently at a pace people could keep up with. A good nose, a carrying voice and the ability to work in a group were important. British breeding established the heavier modern type, which gradually became popular beyond hunting.

Bassets are generally gentle and sociable and enjoy being near people or other dogs. They may rest for long periods, yet an interesting scent quickly captures their attention. At such moments they can be exceptionally determined and reluctant to abandon a chosen route. They may communicate their wishes with a loud voice. Gentleness at home therefore accompanies independence and patient pursuit of a goal.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec rasy i wysokość
• Masa i opis rasy
• Długość życia i opieka
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia