Dog · Large Breed
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a low-slung scent hound known for its long ears, soulful expression, and powerful nose. Originally developed for trailing small game, this breed is affectionate, patient, and typically does well in calm family homes. Basset Hounds can be stubborn, but they are usually gentle and loyal companions.
The Calculator
How old is your Basset Hound in human years?
At 1 year old
Your Basset Hound is approximately 18 in human years.
Field Notes
About the Basset Hound
The Basset Hound was developed in France and later refined in Britain as a scent hound built to track rabbits and other small game at a steady pace. Its short legs, heavy bone, and long ears were all shaped by function, helping the dog stay close to the ground and follow scent trails efficiently.
In temperament, Basset Hounds are usually friendly, easygoing, and affectionate with their families. They often get along well with children and other dogs, though they can have an independent streak that makes training slower than with more eager-to-please breeds. Consistent, reward-based training works best.
Care for a Basset Hound should focus on weight control, skin and ear hygiene, and joint support. Their long ears can trap moisture and debris, so regular ear cleaning is important. Because this breed is prone to obesity, portion control and routine veterinary checkups are especially valuable.
Exercise needs are moderate rather than intense, but daily walks are important for both physical health and mental stimulation. Basset Hounds enjoy sniffing and exploring, so scent-based games can be very enriching. Even though they are not high-energy dogs, they should not be allowed to become sedentary, since excess weight increases strain on their back and joints.
Temperament
Exercise Needs
moderate
Health Watch
- Ear infections
- Obesity
- Intervertebral disc disease (back problems)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus
Grooming
Basset Hounds have a short, dense coat that needs weekly brushing, along with regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and attention to skin folds and drooling around the mouth.
Growth Curve
Basset Hound weight chart
Typical weight progression from young to adult. The tinted band marks the healthy adult range — 20–29 kg.
Nutrition, Staged
Basset Hound Feeding Guide
Stage-based portions tuned to breed energy requirements. Use as a starting point — your veterinarian tailors the final numbers.
Formative years
Young
Follow breed-specific puppy feeding guidelines
Peak years
Adult
Follow breed-specific adult feeding guidelines
Mature years
Senior
Follow breed-specific senior feeding guidelines
Questions, Answered
On the Basset Hound
Yes, Basset Hounds are generally affectionate, tolerant, and well-suited to family life. They are usually patient with children and often enjoy the company of people and other dogs, though supervision and gentle handling are still important.
They need moderate daily exercise, not intense athletic workouts. Regular walks and opportunities to sniff and explore help keep them fit, mentally engaged, and less likely to gain excess weight.
Their long, pendulous ears reduce airflow to the ear canal and can trap moisture, wax, and debris. This creates an environment where infections are more likely, so routine ear checks and cleaning are important.
They are intelligent but often independent and scent-driven, which can make training feel slow. Short, positive sessions with food rewards and patience usually produce the best results.
Owners should monitor for weight gain, reduced mobility, chronic ear issues, and signs of back or joint pain. Difficulty rising, reluctance to walk, changes in posture, or sudden weakness should prompt veterinary evaluation.
Adjacent Breeds
