

The Basset Hound is a laid-back looking but extremely enduring low-slung Meutehund (pack hound) — bred to spend hours following hares through dense brush with their nose to the ground and a loud baying voice.
How the health grade is calculated
Sources for required breeding screenings. Basset-Hound-Freunde von Deutschland e.V.
Self-check
Answer 6 quick questions about your everyday life and see how well the Basset Hound fits you — including an honest cost estimate per month, per year, and across the dog's lifetime.
At a glance
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Lifespan
10–12 yrs
Shoulder height
33–38 cm
Weight
20–34 kg
Practical
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Basset Hound, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Colors & coat
The coat colors that occur in the Basset Hound — including which ones fall outside the breed standard and which carry genetic risk.
Eye colors
Coat type
The real vibes check
A Basset Hound doesn't argue loudly; they simply slow down until you give up. What shines in the undergrowth as iron-willed focus on a trail means in everyday life that a walk in the pouring rain might just end right at the front door. You aren't getting an obedient command-follower, but a stubborn yet incredibly charming philosopher who enjoys life at their own rhythm.
The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive appearance. Its short legs and elongated body make it a unique creature. His large, floppy ears and sad-looking eyes give him a charming and expressive look that makes him incredibly likeable. The Basset Hound belongs to FCI Group 6, which includes running dogs and bloodhounds. There are no specific lines within the breed, as is the case with some other dogs. A special characteristic of the Basset Hound is its exceptionally good nose. In fact, it is second only to the Bloodhound in terms of ability to detect scents, making it an excellent sniffer dog.
The Basset Hound is a relaxed and cozy companion. If you are looking for a calm, even-tempered dog who enjoys spending time with family, the Basset Hound could be exactly what you are looking for. His calm nature makes him a great family dog. He is patient and gets along well with children. However, he tends to be a bit stubborn, meaning he has a mind of his own at times. This little stubbornness can sometimes cause him to be a little picky when it comes to activities that he doesn't necessarily like. But don't worry, with a little patience and understanding he will be a loyal and loving companion. The Basset Hound is known for its exceptional tracking skills. His nose is almost as good as the Bloodhound's, and he loves to follow it. So during walks he can sometimes be a bit stubborn and follow the scent trails he has picked up. It's important to make sure he doesn't stray too far from his path, especially when he's not on a leash. When it comes to other dogs, the Basset Hound is generally sociable and gets along well with them. He is also not overly alert, meaning that while he may alert you to strangers, he is not necessarily a watchdog. Since the Basset Hound was originally bred for hunting, it has a certain hunting instinct. While he won't necessarily hunt, his nose may tempt him to follow an interesting scent. As for the people side, the Basset Hound is very affectionate and loves to be around his people. However, he is also independent enough to stay alone as long as it is not for too long. In terms of temperament, the Basset Hound can be said to be on the calm side. He is not hyperactive, but he still needs regular walks and mental stimulation. Be careful not to overwhelm him with activities, as his body structure can make him prone to joint problems.
| Watchfulness Occasionally alerts but is fundamentally open. | Low |
| Openness to Strangers Warms up quickly and is generally welcoming. | Friendly |
| Hunting or Herding Drive Noticeable drive — needs attention around small animals. | Moderate |
Fun Fact!
Basset Hounds have the second best sense of smell of all dog breeds - only surpassed by the Bloodhound!
Bassets suffer from some extreme breeding traits due to overemphasis on traits. Due to loose connective tissue, the skin wrinkles can be extreme, so constant care is necessary to avoid inflammation. A surgical eye lift may be necessary in the eye area. Musculoskeletal problems are also common.
Despite their size, Basset Hounds are surprisingly adaptable and can be kept in both apartments and houses with a garden as long as they get regular exercise. They are known for their friendliness and patience and tend to get along well with children and other pets. Their calm, easy-going nature makes them good candidates for multi-dog households.
Lives for its family — the born family companion.
Extraordinarily patient and loving — a true family dog.
Actively enjoys the company of other dogs.
Adapts well to city living and urban environments.
Owning a dog is a privilege, but it's also a real responsibility. Before you bring one into your life, be honest with yourself about the commitment it takes.
Raising a Basset Hound can be challenging as they often have a stubborn, independent personality. They respond best to positive reinforcement and patience. Although they don't necessarily tend to be ball junkies, they love walks and sniffing games because they have a keen sense of smell. It's important to encourage their mental stimulation and give them plenty of opportunities to use their nose.
Basset Hounds can be prone to being overweight, so a balanced, healthy diet is essential. Depending on the dog's age, size and activity level, needs may vary, so it is always good to consult your veterinarian about this. When it comes to grooming, the Basset Hound has a short, dense coat with an undercoat that should be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and promote skin health. They shed moderately and cope well with the climate in Germany.
| Care Level Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs Needs 1–2 hours of real exercise daily. | Active |
| Shedding Hair everywhere, always — no white clothing survives. | Very heavy |
| Trainability Has its own ideas and will test limits. | Strong-willed |
Our experts are still reviewing this information. Spotted something wrong? Email us at info@honestdog.de.
Elevated risks
Health grade
As a chondrodystrophic breed, the Basset Hound carries a significantly increased risk of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD); in addition, Lafora epilepsy, hip dysplasia (HD), and primary open-angle glaucoma affect the breed. For breeding approval in the Basset-Hound-Freunde von Deutschland e.V., testing for HD, Lafora epilepsy, as well as glaucoma and primary open-angle glaucoma is mandatory. A health-conscious breeder additionally pays attention to findings regarding intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and has elbow dysplasia (ED) evaluated. Have the certificates presented to you before buying a puppy: in the case of Lafora epilepsy, a carrier may only be mated with a clear partner, hips must be evaluated with HD A to C, and for ED you should demand ED 0.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-assisted and editorially reviewed.
Methodology and data: HonestDog Dog Breed Health Report 2026
What matters most for this breed
Tap any item to see details.
You should consistently avoid stair climbing, maintain a healthy weight, and regularly care for their skin folds and ears to prevent infections.
Responsible breeders test beforehand for HD, Lafora disease, and glaucoma, and voluntarily screen elbows as well as the spine for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) to prevent severe paralysis.
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
What matters most for this breed — what's common, how much it affects the dog's life, and how to protect yourself as a buyer.
Tap a body region to see the inherited conditions linked to it.
The three most important risks
Pick a region on the map to explore other areas.
Tier 1 reflects the tests Basset-Hound-Freunde von Deutschland e.V. actually mandates. Tiers 2 and 3 show how responsible breeders go beyond.
Club standard. Basset-Hound-Freunde von Deutschland e.V. requires these tests for breeding approval. Ask any reputable breeder for the results.
Not health tests, but required for breeding: the club asks for these results too. They don't count toward the risks or the rating.
Wesensbeurteilung
Required by Basset-Hound-Freunde von Deutschland e.V.
Acceptable result: Erfolgreiche Verhaltensüberprüfung
Note: This health overview is AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. It is for orientation only and does not replace veterinary advice.
A Basset Hound costs around ~€190 per month (€100 – €360, depending on your setup). The first year adds up to roughly ~€4,940 including purchase, equipment and puppy school; across the dog's life (11 years) it comes to about ~€27,560.
With surgery cover, running costs come to about ~€190 per month — in return, your share of a major operation drops from several thousand euros to around 20 percent.
Per month
~€190
In the first year
~€4,940
Across the dog's life
~€27,560
Estimated purchase price from a breeder: €1,200 – €2,500
Estimate at a mid-range setup (suburban, dry food, 1–2 hours of daily exercise), average German prices, as of July 2026.
HonestDog Concierge
We currently have no breeders for this breed who have passed our verification. Create your short buyer profile: we'll set up your search alert, review a possible source and email you within 28 days.

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Illustrative imageThe Basset Hound has its roots in France and is closely related to the Bloodhound. The name "Basset" comes from the French word "bas", meaning "low", and refers to the short legs of the breed. The breed is believed to have originated in the 16th century, with the first written mentions of the Basset Hound being found in the 17th century. The Basset Hound was originally used to hunt small game such as rabbits and hares. Its short legs made it move slower than other hunting dogs, allowing hunters to follow it on foot. The breed first became popular in Britain in the 19th century and later in the United States. The Basset Hound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1916.
The Basset Hound was bred to hunt hares and rabbits and is known for its excellent nose and calm nature.
Great Britain
1800
At home and with the family, owners describe the Basset Hound as a very laid-back, cuddly, and loyal housemate. Indoors it is considered a cozy roommate that would most like to sleep snuggled up close to its people on the couch, and it shows remarkable patience and good nature with children and other dogs. Aggression is almost foreign to the breed, which is why many value it as a very reliable family dog.
At the same time, owners repeatedly stress that its calm behavior indoors can easily hide what it actually needs day to day. Basset Hounds aren't just lapdogs; they need long walks and tend toward frustration or weight problems when they aren't challenged enough. Living with one also takes a good dose of humor and a relaxed attitude toward cleanliness: many owners report noticeable drooling, constant shedding, and dirt carried home from walks in the skin folds and long drop ears.
Sources:reddit.comzoomalia.dede.petbucket.commartinruetter.com
Training is one of the most discussed aspects of the breed in forums and owner accounts. Practically all owners highlight its strong stubbornness and independence. A Basset Hound regularly questions whether commands make sense and shows little of the classic "will to please" seen in other breeds; blind obedience or competitive obedience work is barely achievable with it. Rigid obedience methods or pressure usually just make the dog dig in its heels completely, or simply refuse to take another step.
Experienced owners name endless patience, loving consistency, and very high-value food rewards as the keys to successful basic training. Even supposedly simple things like housetraining a puppy can take considerably longer with this breed than with other dogs. Outdoors, recall often reaches its limits: owners' experience is that as soon as that sensitive nose picks up an interesting game trail or scent, the Basset's hearing often switches off completely, which is why many owners have to use a long line in woods and fields.
Sources:reddit.comamba-versicherungen.devetsaglik.comsabinemiddelhaufeshundundnatur.net
On health and physical resilience, owners report specific quirks and challenges that come from the breed's unusual build. Because of the heavy, long back on short legs, protecting the musculoskeletal system is a constant everyday topic: owners consistently avoid stairs and jumps out of the car or off the couch to minimize the risk of joint disease and herniated discs. On walks, Bassets usually prefer a leisurely pace with plenty of time to sniff rather than fast athletic efforts.
Daily grooming is another central point in owner accounts. Because of the heavy, hanging ears and the loose skin around the eyes and lips, many owners deal with recurring ear infections, irritated conjunctiva, or moist skin irritation in the folds. Owner communities also strongly warn against losing sight of the dog's weight, since Basset Hounds tend to put on extra pounds, which can put a lot of additional strain on the spine and the short legs.
Sources:martinruetter.comamba-versicherungen.devetsaglik.comdogforum.deforum.hundund.de
Paraphrased from real owner reports · translated from German
The Basset Hound is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
The average life expectancy of a Basset Hound is 10-12 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
Basset Hound grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
The Basset Hound can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
The Basset Hound comes in these colors: Tricolor, Bicolor, Red and white, Brown and white, Black and white, Blue.
Showcase your kennel on HonestDog and reach families searching for a responsibly bred Basset Hound.