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Basset Hound
Hound breed from France
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a medium-sized scent hound known for its low-slung, heavy-boned body, long velvety ears, mournful expression, and loose skin. It is described as friendly, calm, gentle, loyal, independent, and devoted. The breed has a short, smooth coat and is categorized in the Hound group. Energy and trainability are rated low (2 out of 5), while grooming and shedding are moderate (3 out of 5). It scores high for child suitability (4) and apartment living (4), and moderate for dog compatibility (3). Adult weight is estimated between 18–30 kg and height 33–38 cm for both sexes. Lifespan is estimated at 12–13 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Basset Hound at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginFrance
Lifespan12–13 years
Male weight18–30 kilogram
Female weight18–30 kilogram
Male height33–38 centimetre
Female height33–38 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Basset Hound originated in France, developed by French aristocrats from hounds bred at the Abbey of St. Hubert. The breed was created for hunting small game in dense cover, with its low-slung body perfected for trailing rabbits and hare. The exact timeline of its development is not specified in available records. Later, the breed was refined in England for pack hunting. The Basset Hound's powerful tracking ability and calm demeanor are noted traits. While often associated with France, its history includes refinement in England, though specific dates or individuals involved are not documented in the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18–30 kilogramAdult weight33–38 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShort, SmoothCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlycalmgentleloyalindependentdevoted
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Lower exercise demand
May require patient training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Basset Hound-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Basset Hound puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight18–30 kilogramAdult female weight18–30 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Basset Hound?
The Basset Hound is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 18 to 30 kg for both males and females. Estimated adult height ranges from 33 to 38 cm. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 13 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Basset Hound?
The breed is described as friendly, calm, gentle, loyal, independent, and devoted. Individual dogs may vary, and not every Basset Hound will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Basset Hound need?
The breed has a low energy score (2 out of 5), indicating relatively low exercise needs. However, individual requirements may vary. Regular walks and mental stimulation are still important.
What are the grooming requirements for a Basset Hound?
The Basset Hound has a short, smooth coat. Grooming score is 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate grooming needs. Shedding score is also 3 out of 5, meaning moderate shedding. Regular brushing and ear cleaning are recommended.
Is a Basset Hound suitable for families with children or other dogs?
The breed scores high for child suitability (4 out of 5) and moderate for dog compatibility (3 out of 5). While generally good with children and other dogs, individual temperaments vary, so supervision and proper introductions are advised.
Can a Basset Hound live in an apartment?
Yes, the breed scores high for apartment suitability (4 out of 5). Their low energy level and calm demeanor make them adaptable to apartment living, provided they get regular walks.
Where does the Basset Hound originate from?
The Basset Hound originated in France. It was developed by French aristocrats from hounds bred at the Abbey of St. Hubert for hunting small game in dense cover. Later, it was refined in England for pack hunting.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.