The Basset - A Scent Hound
The The Basset Hound belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Scent Hounds, which specialise in following the scent or the smell of its quarry. In fact, the Basset Hound's sense of smell is second only to that of the bloodhound. It wasn’t until the mid 1500's that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Scent Hounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. They have large noses which have deep, open nostrils and their lips are loose and moist, designed to pick up scent particles and follow the trail of an animal. Their ears are long which concentrates the scent on the nose. Their bodies are designed for endurance, an essential asset when following any scent trail. Hunting takes different forms and as man opts for hunting their quarry either on foot or on horseback the scent hounds have been selectively bred to produce small legs, to enable a man to easily follow on foot, or longer legs suited to keep up with a man on horseback. Most scent hounds were used in packs - making a loud, deep baying noise alerting hunters to their location. 

As a pet the Basset Hound is affectionate, placid, and loyal loves to be part of the family. Responds well to well controlled discipline and training - they are born hunters and are likely to run off and chase any small moving animal.

Information, Facts & History of the Basset Hound Dog
The Basset Hound is the French aristocrat of dogs. They are of an old French lineage and the first known documented reference to the Basset Hound was in 1585, where it was referred to in the function of badger hunting. It's origins are, however, believed to date back to the Middle Ages. The name Basset derives from
the Middle French from the word 'bas' meaning low. The Basset Hound, with its short legs, was ideal for hunting at a slow pace and displayed strength and endurance. Their original home was believed to be the French provinces of Artois and Flanders. Like many hunting dogs the Basset Hound was originally owned and bred by members of the French Nobility. This all changed with the French Revolution starting in 1789 and ending ten years later in when the Dictatorship of Napoleon was established. French Royalty and Nobility was finished but the commoners started to hunt with the Basset Hounds in their place. As the dogs were of medium build their upkeep was inexpensive and their short legs made them ideal for accompanying a hunter who was on foot. The Basset therefore flourished in this new social environment. Different cross breeding programs were tried with the Artesien Normand most closely resembling today’s basset. Bloodhounds were also used in breeding programs to increase the overall size of the Basset Hound.

Description of the Basset Hound Dog and Puppies - Coat and Colours info
The Basset Hound's coat comes in a range of the following colours tricolour - black, white and tan, red (marmalade) and white or less often lemon and white. The coat is smooth and short-haired.

Dog Health information - potential health problems of the Basset Hound Dog Breed
All owners of dogs and puppies are concerned about the health care of their pets and just as with humans dog health issues arise from time to time. Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Basset Hound, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Diseases in dogs may occur because of trauma, infection, immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or degenerative conditions. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Basset Hound may be checked via the Dog Symptoms Sorter, but can include:

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia (abnormal development of joints referred to as CHD - Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia)
• Entropion (the inversion, or turning inward, of the border of the eyelid against the eyeball)
• Gastric Torsion
• Patellar Luxation ( The patella, or kneecap, is part of the stifle joint (knee). In patellar luxation, the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place )