Basset Hound

Basset Hound

Medium Breed
Male Weight
23 - 29 kg
Female Weight
20 - 27 kg
Lifespan
10 - 12 years
Size Category
Medium

About the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a medium-sized breed. Males typically weigh between 23 and 29 kg when fully grown, while females weigh 20 to 27 kg. With an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, the Basset Hound is a moderately long-lived breed.

Temperament

Basset Hound dogs are versatile, intelligent, and loyal companions. They are active and enjoy participating in family activities. They typically get along well with children and other dogs when properly socialised from a young age. Their intelligence makes them responsive to training, and they thrive when given a sense of purpose and regular mental stimulation.

Exercise Needs

Basset Hound dogs need at least 1-2 hours of daily exercise. They enjoy walks, runs, and interactive play sessions. Many excel in dog sports like agility and obedience. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is equally important. Without adequate exercise, they may develop destructive habits or excessive barking.

Common Health Issues

Basset Hound dogs may be prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, ear infections, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight help prevent many common issues. Discuss appropriate health screening tests with your vet. A balanced diet and regular exercise contribute significantly to long-term health.

Grooming

Regular grooming helps keep Basset Hound dogs looking and feeling their best. Brush the coat 1-2 times per week to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. Bathe as needed. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care round out the grooming routine. Grooming sessions are also a good opportunity to check for any health concerns.

Breed Traits

Energy Level
Low
Trainability
Average
Shedding
Low
Barking
Frequent
Good with Kids
Excellent
Good with Dogs
Loves Dogs
Good with Strangers
Neutral

Famous Basset Hound Owners

George Washington received Basset Hounds as a gift from the Marquis de Lafayette after the American Revolutionary War, and he bred them on his Mount Vernon estate. His detailed diary entries about his hound pack reveal a deep personal interest in their breeding and temperament; Washington was an enthusiastic dog breeder who kept meticulous records. Elvis Presley owned a Basset Hound named Sherlock, photographed at Graceland. The breed also has one of pop culture's most enduring fictional representatives in Fred Basset, Alex Graham's wry, philosophical comic strip dog, which has appeared in British newspapers continuously since 1963.

Is the Basset Hound right for you?

Basset Hound is a laid-back, low-energy companion that suits quiet households and relaxed owners. Excellent with children of all ages, this breed makes a wonderful family companion. It loves the company of other dogs and thrives in multi-pet households. Grooming needs are minimal with light shedding throughout the year. Quite vocal by nature, they may bark frequently if not trained. Training progresses at an average pace and requires consistent effort. Neutral with unfamiliar people, they neither seek nor avoid strangers.

Dogpanion's take: AI-generated based on breed trait data.

Weight & Growth

A fully grown male Basset Hound weighs approximately 26 kg on average. Use Dogpanion's free size predictor to estimate your Basset Hound puppy's adult weight based on their current age and weight.

Basset Hound Care Tools

Dogpanion offers free tools to help you care for your Basset Hound:

Track Your Basset Hound with Dogpanion

Free age calculator, size predictor, food safety checker, and health tracker for 350+ breeds.

Web App Coming Soon

Homemade Recipes for Your Basset Hound

Every ingredient verified safe. Use as occasional treats or meal toppers alongside a complete diet.

🦐
Salmon and Sweet Potato Patties
15 minutes + 15 minutes · 8 patties
🍳
Beef and Sweet Potato Stew
10 minutes + 35 minutes · 4-5 portions
🥇
Frozen Blueberry Treats
10 minutes · 20 treats
🦡
Cod and Sweet Potato Fishcakes
15 minutes + 25 minutes · 8 fishcakes
Browse all recipes