Appearance

The Basset Hound is a pretty distinctive breed: the body of a Dachshund with the head of a Bloodhound. They have a long low body, short crooked legs, a large muzzle, long drooping ears, cheerless brown eyes, and a prominent dewlap. This sad little look is complimented by loose, folding skin and a doleful expression. The coat is sleek and short, and the color combinations include black, tan, and white, white and tan, and red and white.

History

Basset Hounds originated in France several centuries ago and were used throughout Europe as hunting dogs. Designed by monks who wanted a slower dog that could be followed on foot, Bassets (French for “low-set”) proved to be excellent slow trackers of rabbit and deer. Brought to England in the 1860s, they eventually made their way to America and appeared in the 1884 Westminster show. Since 1935, the Basset Hound Club of America has promoted the breed as a resourceful hunter, tracker and companion.