The story where it all began
The Basset's roots lie in the scent hounds of medieval France, including the St Hubert hounds kept by monks in the Ardennes, and short-legged hounds of this kind appear in Jacques du Fouilloux's hunting book La Venerie of 1585. Their low build let huntsmen on foot follow hare, rabbit and other small game through thick cover. Planned breeding took off in France around 1870, when Count Le Couteulx and Louis Lane developed the Artois and Normand types. English interest grew after bassets were shown in Paris in 1863; Lord Galway brought over a pair in 1866, and Sir Everett Millais, often called the father of the modern Basset Hound, began showing and breeding them in the mid-1870s, later crossing in Bloodhound blood to create a heavier dog. The Kennel Club classified the breed around 1880, and royal owners including Queen Alexandra helped make it fashionable. In the United States the AKC registered its first Bassets in 1885, the Basset Hound Club of America gained recognition in 1937 and held the first Basset field trial that year, and a 1928 Time magazine cover helped turn the breed into a popular family pet.1673
A day in the life told by a Basset Hound
This morning I gave my humans a proper wake-up call with a good, deep bay. After breakfast, we set off for our sniffy walk. I followed a fascinating trail all the way to the park, where I flopped down for a nice nap in the sun. Later, the kids came home and I let them pat my long, silky ears. At dinner time, I sat by my bowl and gave my best hopeful look. A perfect day of smells, naps and love.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Basset Hound tipBasset Hounds love their food, so keep treats to a minimum and never give table scraps. Use healthy, low-calorie treats and account for them in their daily food allowance to help prevent weight gain.
Source: pdsa.org.uk akc.org petmd.com
Simple Carrot Crunchies
Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.
You need
- 1 large carrot, washed and peeled
How
- Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
- Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
- Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.
How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.
Recipe from The Kennel Club
Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup
Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.
You need
- 1 cooking pumpkin
- ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
- ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
- Cinnamon, to sprinkle
How
- Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
- Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
- Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
- Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
- Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.
How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.
Recipe from Dogs Trust
Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)
A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.
You need
- 1 egg
- 170g boiled chicken breast
- 100g cooked plain rice
- 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
- 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)
How
- Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
- Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
- Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before serving.
How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.
Recipe from Blue Cross
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Basset Hound, and at what times?
Feed your Basset Hound at least two measured meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Because Bassets love food and can easily overeat, stick to set meal times and count treats as part of the daily ration. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.210
What should a Basset Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, balanced adult dog food with measured portions is best, and puppies do well on a large-breed growth formula. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, so keep these well away from your Basset.211
How often should I bathe a Basset Hound?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath about every eight weeks, or at least once every three months. You can bathe more often if your Basset gets very dirty or has skin issues, but always use a gentle dog shampoo.12 Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Basset Hound need brushing?
Brush your Basset Hound's short, smooth coat about once a week to manage average shedding. Regular brushing keeps the coat healthy and is a nice bonding time.5212 Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Basset Hound's nails, and how often?
Trim your Basset's nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and if you are unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.12 Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Basset Hound need?
Your Basset Hound needs moderate exercise, about 45 minutes to an hour each day. They enjoy steady walks with plenty of sniffing, but always keep them on a lead or in a secure area because a good scent can lead them away.523 Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Basset Hound's teeth and ears?
Brush your Basset's teeth ideally daily, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check and dry the long, floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup, and never push anything into the ear canal.1252 Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Basset Hound live?
A Basset Hound typically lives between 10 and 15 years. With good care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, many enjoy a long, happy life.125
Is a Basset Hound good with children and other pets?
Yes, Basset Hounds are usually wonderful with children, other dogs, and household pets. They are mellow, good-natured, and deeply loyal, making them a great family companion.3421
Can a Basset Hound be left alone?
Basset Hounds are pack-bred and enjoy company, so they are happiest when included in daily life. They can be left alone for reasonable periods if well-exercised and entertained, but prolonged solitude may lead to boredom or barking. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or your vet.321
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Basset Artésien Normand
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Bloodhound
Beagle