Basset hounds were originally bred in France and Belgium. Bassets were “developed” throughout the 1500’s. The Friars of the Abbey of St. Hubert’s have been thought to be the ones responsible for “crossing strains of older French breeds to create a low built scenting hound.” This breed was especially favored during the 16-19th centuries, as hunting in France was popular in these times; these dogs were “ favored in the kennels of aristocrats and other nobility”.

The first Basset Hounds in the United States were reported to have been owned by George Washington, which were given to him by the Marquis de Lafayette(after the American Revolution). Seven Bassets were “attracted” to the first Basset field trail on October 24, 1937, which was associated with the Basset Hound Club of America, later creating a larger population of well-trained Bassets in the U.S.

AKC.com

A Basset Hound’s main purpose is considered to be to hunt hares. As of today, they have also been taught to track and hunt other animals, including: rabbits, foxes, squirrels, deer, badgers, and raccoons. These dogs have an amazing sense of smell as well as tracking abilities, therefore, “ In trailing ability, the accuracy of the Basset’s nose makes him second only to the Bloodhound”.

Certain records have proved that Bassets are great at hunting in packs, obedience, tracking, and field trials. To help make these dogs great at hunting, they have certain features that are purposeful while hunting. The purpose for their long ears are to help pick up scents from the ground. Their loose skin creates wrinkles by the head, which catch other scents. Their white- tipped tail is important because while hunting in long grass, they are easier to be spotted by the hunters. 

The height of this breed has been recorded to not exceed 14-15 inches. The males are 12-15 in.(30-38 cm) tall, whereas, females are 11-14 in.(28-36 cm) in height. As they have heavy bones and a rather large body structure, Bassets tend to weigh at least around 50 lbs. Females range from 45-60 lbs(20-27 kg). Males weigh from 50-65 lbs(23-29 kg).

A Basset’s lifespan ranges from 10 to 12 years. Common diseases/illnesses that this breed may have include: obesity, patellar luxation, elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, and glaucoma. Otitis externa ( chronic inflammation in the ear canal), entropion (abnormal eyelids), as well as Von Willebrand’s Disease ( bleeding disorder), are several health problems that are more dangerous, which a Basset Hound may be diagnosed with.

Hill’spet.com

Basset hounds’ coats are quite similar to those of a Beagle. Their coats may variate from six different colors, including: black & white, brown & white, lemon & white, black & brown, red & white, or tri-color. Bassets often have markings on their coats, making them unique. Some markings found on Basset Hounds are: black markings, white markings, a black “mask”, or tickings.

This dog breed may have two different cost types; short-haired and long-haired coats, however, long-haired basset hounds are quite rare. Another rarity seen in the coat of a Basset, are lemon and white colors. Although according to the American Kennel Club, all coat colors in a Basset Hound are acceptable,  there are certain colors in a Basset Hound that are possible, but not favored. For example, “grey”(or blue) Basset’s are usually considered undesirable because this color is thought to be ” associated with genetic problems”.