Bella is a Basset Hound mix from Powell, Ohio and a graduate of the 2-Week Overnight Basic Puppy Obedience & Socialization Training Class Camp. Beautiful, Bella!

Basset Hound

Follow that nose.

The French have long produced some very talented hounds…and the Basset certainly qualifies.

In 6th-century France, hunting with pack dogs was a common event. Many breeds were developed that could not only track and bring down large prey but could also keep pace with the hunters on horseback. This led to breeds like the bloodhound, a descendant of the St. Hubert Hound, who had unmatched nasal senses, stamina and long legs to give chase.

For smaller prey and those that liked to hunt on foot, though, these long-legged canines would lock on to a scent and leave their owners in the dust.

Another descendant of the St. Hubert Hound, some believe a genetic deviation, was the Basset. Outfitted with the same sensory and stamina strength as their long-legged cousins, the Basset was equally formidable in tracking smaller prey.

Defying their physical appearance and perception, Bassets were well suited for small game with thick, powerful legs that were ideal for rough terrain and a unique gate that preserved energy.

Trainability: C-
Basset Hounds are intelligent dogs that can be trained, but their breeding sometimes conflicts with suburban life. Many hunting dogs were bred with the ability to think on their own while separated from their handlers and tracking prey. Perfect in the field, this independent thinking means a little more patience might be needed when training.

Bassets make great house pets, too. They’re even keel and not high-energy so they don’t require a lot of exercise to stay healthy. While not the most affectionate dog, Bassets are extremely loyal.

Read more about the Basset Hound at the American Kennel Club and the Basset Hound Club of America.