A low-slung nose on legs with an easygoing soul.
Origin
France / England
Height
up to 15 in (up to 38 cm)
Weight
40–65 lb (18–29 kg)
Lifespan
12–13 years
Coat
Short, dense, hard — low-maintenance
Energy
Low
Overview
The Basset Hound is built low and heavy for a reason: its short legs keep that extraordinary nose close to the ground, and its long ears help stir scent toward it. Only the Bloodhound has a keener sense of smell.
Placid, gentle, and famously stubborn, the Basset is an affectionate family dog with a deep, melodic voice. It moves at its own unhurried pace and follows interesting smells with single-minded devotion.
History
Developed in France and refined in England, the Basset Hound was bred to trail rabbit and hare on foot, its slow, steady pace letting hunters keep up. Its name comes from the French “bas,” meaning low.
Where it comes from
France / England
Highlighted in the Basset Hound's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Basset is tolerant, mild-mannered, and devoted, getting along well with children and other animals. It is notoriously headstrong and scent-driven, so training takes patience and recall can be unreliable once a smell takes over.
Health to watch
The long back and short legs raise the risk of disc problems; keeping the dog lean and limiting jumping helps.
The long, low-hanging ears trap moisture and debris and need regular cleaning to prevent infection.
The breed gains weight easily, stressing the spine and joints, and its deep chest carries some bloat risk.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
Careful portioning is vital; excess weight badly strains the Basset's long back and heavy frame.
Clean the ears regularly and check facial and body folds to prevent moisture-related irritation.
Moderate daily walks maintain fitness; keep the scent-driven hound leashed or securely fenced.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.