Everything you need to know about Basset Hound puppies

Just one look at an adorable Basset Hound puppy might have you singing “you ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog”, but there’s more to these pooches than what meets the eye. With long droopy ears and noses sharper than most breeds, these doggies were born to hunt, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t equally fond of snuggling up with their loved ones on the sofa. Let’s take a look at some Basset Hound facts, from the history of these handsome hunting hounds to how to take care of Basset Hound puppies.

7 interesting facts about Basset Hound puppies

1. The word “bas” means “low” in French

It all makes sense now! It is said that hounds such as the Bloodhound and Basset were first bred by friars at the French Abbey of St. Hubert. Some believe the smaller hound was bred accidentally whilst others agree that the friars intentionally created the low-down-to-the-ground hound for its ability to track small game through low brush. The Basset Hound started out as a popular dog breed for French aristocrats who hunted rabbits, but by the end of the Revolution, the breed had become a common sight in France. A century later, these shorties made their way across the world and ended up being the 10th breed to be recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. The Basset Hound Club of America was founded in 1935, firmly establishing the breed’s place in our hearts. 

2. They’re hunting dogs through and through

Following the scent of something interesting is number one on the Basset Hound’s list of priorities, which means learning tricks like “play dead” may not be top of their agenda. Every part of the Basset Hound’s long body is built for hunting, from their excellent sense of smell (second only to the Bloodhound), and gentle folds in their skin (which help trap scents), to their lovely long ears (more on that later). Their close proximity to the ground also means they don’t have to go far to catch a whiff of something, and once tracking mode has been initiated, there’s not much that can distract them from their scent work. 

3. Why the long ears? All the better to smell (you) with

Those floppy ears might look cute, but they’re exactly what makes the Basset Hound the bonafide little hunter it is. Their ears hang low and they waggle to and fro all in a bid to waft those all-important smells straight up the little hunter’s nose. 

4. They come as a pack

No, we don’t mean you’ve got to get multiple Basset Hound puppies (although that would be nice). Basset Hounds were bred to work in packs which means they love having company and will be the first to make friends if you’re out on a walk. They also get on well with other pet pals, including furry felines, but they don’t do so well on their own. 

5. They’re Mr (and Miss) Independent

Ok, we know what we just said about them loving a bit of company, but Basset Hounds can also be fiercely independent. While they won’t “hound” you for constant attention and affection, Bassets are extremely loyal to their loved ones and they can be great companions, especially for children. 

6. They love the sound of their own voice

Basset Hound puppies grow up to have a loud, distinctive bark, but as they’re unable to detect friend from foe, they don’t make the best guard dogs. 

7. They’re the face of Hush puppies

These lollopy legends have been the face of Hush puppies shoes since 1958, but why? The story goes that southern hunters would feed their dogs hush puppies (deep-friend balls of cornmeal) to stop them from barking. As “barking dogs” is a euphemism for aching feet, the slogan “quiet your barking dogs” seemed perfect for the first-ever casual shoe.

What’s the best home for a Basset Hound puppy?

Despite their independence, Basset Hound puppies are best suited to households where members of the family spend lots of time at home (and they will be pretty vocal about letting you know if they’re feeling lonely). We know that’s not possible all the time, so if you’re jetting off on vacation, be sure to have one of our trusted dog sitters take care of your pooch to make sure they get all the love and attention they deserve. 

Small dogs do not always equal apartment friendly, in fact, as Basset Hounds love a good howl, they do better in homes where neighbors aren’t in such close proximity. They’re also not great at navigating stairs, with long, heavy bodies and short legs, apartment blocks with huge flights of stairs won’t work for these doggies.

Getting a Basset Hound puppy

Before getting a Basset Hound puppy, pet parents need to ensure they can meet this hunting dog’s needs. As they were bred to track scents without getting distracted it can be very difficult to get a Basset Hound’s attention once they’re onto something good, which can give the impression they are badly trained. For this reason, Basset Hounds need to be trained and socialized from a young age, and they respond particularly well to reward-based training.

They may be small, but that doesn’t mean those little legs weren’t made for walking! When your puppy grows up, two walks a day should steer them away from the life of a couch potato (and their tenancy to get a little over-chonky). Their main goal when they’re out and about is to catch a whiff of anything and everything, so walks can’t be rushed, and Basset Hounds will probably spend the rest of the time snoozing and recharging.

Despite their short, smooth-looking hair, pet parents need to be prepared to groom Basset Hounds once a week. The face folds and eyes should also be cleaned regularly and special attention should be paid to their ears, which may look cute, but are prone to infection. Adult Basset Hounds can also inherit hip dysplasia from their parents, so be sure to find out as much information as possible about the health of the puppy’s family. 

How to adopt a Basset Hound puppy

Unfortunately far too many pups are in need of a second home, so if you are thinking of becoming a Basset Hound dog parent, consider adopting. While you may not find a young pup, giving a dog of any age a second chance at the life they deserve can be extremely rewarding. Adopted pooches are always microchipped and spayed/neutered meaning vet bills will be lower, plus most adopted pups will have had a certain amount of training before they come to you. Basset Hound puppy rescue charities such as The Basset Rescue Network of Great Britain and The Basset Hound Rescue of Southern California do a great job of ensuring these homeless hounds find their forever families. 

How to buy a Basset Hound puppy

A responsible pet parent must know all the ins and outs before getting a pup, whether they’re adopting or buying. If you’re considering buying a Basset Hound, take note that these pups live for up to 15 years, so you must be prepared to take care of them for their whole life, not just the cute puppy dog stage. Mini Basset Hound puppies have risen in popularity but it’s extremely important not to buy one that has been bred from runts or dogs with the dwarfism gene, both of which can cause health problems for the pup. The Kennel Club (UK) and the American Kennel Club can help you find reputable breeders, but it’s extremely important to do your own research at the same time. 

Useful resources

• How to get a puppy to sleep through the night
• Beginners guide to puppy training
• How to toilet train a puppy