Basset Hound insurance
Is the Basset Hound the right dog breed for you?
Basset Hound owner’s guide
With their droopy expressions, long ears and relaxed vibes, Basset Hounds are an endlessly charming breed. Despite their laid-back appearance, these scent-driven dogs have energy, intelligence and mischief in equal measure. Whether you’re thinking about bringing one home or already have a Basset sprawled across your sofa, here we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Basset Hound quick facts
- Size: Basset hounds measure about 28-38cm at the shoulder (11-15”), with males being slightly larger and heavier than females
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Weight: 20-34 kg
- Colours: Usually tricolour (black, white and tan) or lemon and white
- Temperament: Affectionate, calm, stubborn streak and bursts of energy
- Common health issues: Eye issues; ear infections; intervertebral disc disease (IVDD); hip and elbow dysplasia
- Country of origin: France, then developed in Britain
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Where do Basset Hound's come from?
Basset Hounds originated in France, where ‘basset’ translates to ‘low’. Their short legs and powerful noses made them ideal for hunting small game through dense woodland.
Later they gained popularity in England, where they were refined into the affectionate, affable scent hounds we know today. They were officially recognised by The Kennel Club in 1883.
Basset Hound temperament
Loving
Basset Hounds have a sweet, affectionate nature. They’re also calm and easy-going.
Friendly
Basset Hounds are friendly and sociable, getting along well with people – children included – plus other pets.
Playful
Bassett Hounds are always up for fun and have surprising bursts of athleticism.
Bassets are gentle, patient and quirky. They’re a delightful blend of couch-potato cuddler and determined tracker. They're also famously stubborn and independent thanks to being bred to follow scents without distraction.
Appearance and size
Bassets are instantly recognisable. They have very long, velvety ears and soft, droopy eyes, often giving a ‘sad’ expression.
Despite being low to the ground, Basset Hounds are medium-to-large-sized dogs. They get to around 28-38 cm in height, weighing between 20-30 kg when fully grown. Bassets are low, long-bodied and heavy-boned. Their unique shape is charming but also requires mindful care to protect their back and joints.
They have a smooth, short coat in tri-colour or bi-colour patterns. They come in a few colour combinations – usually lemon and white; black, white and tan; but can also be black and brown, black and white, red and white and so on.
Grooming a Basset Hound
Bassets are fairly low-maintenance. Here are a few tips to keep them in their best condition:
- Brush weekly to reduce shedding
- Their coat is easy, but those long ears need special attention. Clean them often to prevent infections
- Wipe skin folds and under the chin
- Get their nails trimmed regularly
- Be watchful for tear stains and droopy eyes
Basset Hound training
Basset Hounds are clever dogs with a strong independent streak, which can make training both entertaining and mildly exasperating. They were bred to follow scent trails for hours without human direction, so it’s in their nature to make decisions for themselves rather than look to their owner for constant instruction.
As such, you’ll get the best results by keeping training sessions short, consistent, and fun. High-value treats – we’re talking chicken cheese, or soft training bites – are especially motivating for Bassets. They also respond well to positive reinforcement rather than pressure or punishment.
It’s also important to remember that Bassets are easily distracted by smells. If they catch an interesting scent, their brain temporarily checks out of whatever lesson you were teaching.
Basset Hound health issues
Basset Hounds are generally healthy, but their unique body shape and genetics mean they’re predisposed to a handful of common health issues and certain conditions:
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia
Their long backs and short legs increase the risk of musculoskeletal problems such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Because they carry more weight than you’d expect for their height, excess body fat can put further strain on their joints, making weight management especially important.
Eye problems
Eye conditions such as ectropion (outward-turning eyelids), entropion (inward-turning eyelids), glaucoma and conjunctivitis can also occur due to their distinctive droopy eyes.
Ear infections
Their long, heavy ears are also prone to infections, as they create a warm, moist environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive. Regular ear cleaning and early treatment of any irritation go a long way in preventing chronic issues.
Skin problems
Bassets’ loose skin folds can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to dermatitis or recurrent infections, particularly around the mouth, neck and belly.
Digestive problems
Basset Hounds can be at risk of bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists. If you suspect they have anything wrong with their belly, get them seen by a vet straight away.
For dog breeders and puppy buyers, it’s also important to note that Royal Kennel Club recommends checking the puppy’s mum for a number of specific genetic conditions.
Common conditions for the Basset Hound
Here are the top 5 most commonly claimed health conditions for the Basset Hound breed, to help you better understand their needs before bringing one home.
Top 5 common conditions based on Agria Pet Insurance claims for Basset Hound's in 2024.
- 1
Hypersensitivity (allergic) skin disorder
- 2
Osteoarthritis (osteoarthrosis, degenerative joint disease (DJD)
- 3
Skin (cutaneous) disorder
- 4
Glaucoma
- 5
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS, Dry Eye)
For dog breeders and puppy buyers, it’s also important to note that Royal Kennel Club recommends checking the puppy’s mum for a number of specific genetic conditions.
Things to consider before getting a Basset Hound
They’re excellent dogs but might not be the perfect fit for every lifestyle. Before committing to getting a Basset, there are a few things worth knowing:
-
They shed and have a natural doggy smell
-
They can be stubborn and slow to train
-
Back and joint issues can lead to higher vet bills
-
They may follow their nose into mischief
For more information on choosing the right dog for you, see our list of A-Z dog breeds.
What we love most about Basset Hounds
They’re charming and soulful
Basset Hounds have lovely soulful expressions, which matches their loyalty and affection. There’s just something irresistibly endearing about a Basset.
‘Comedian’ energy
Bassets are goofy, and natural entertainers.
Quirky mix
One minute they’re lazing about, the next they have a sudden burst of enthusiasm. They’re great both to chill with and have fun with.
Basset Hound insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Basset Hound's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Agria Pet Insurance has been awarded 'best pet insurance overall' from The Telegraph.
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Basset Hound FAQs
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