Who this breed is NOT for
People wanting an obedient, off-leash, or athletic dog, anyone bothered by howling, or who won't stay on top of weight and ear care.
Bred to do
A scent hound — bred to trail rabbits and hare low to the ground, slowly and tirelessly, in packs. That nose and those ears are the job.
Exercise needs
Low to moderate — daily walks (they'll happily amble and sniff) but they tire and overheat, and they gain weight easily. Watch the waistline.
Temperament
Easygoing, gentle, friendly, and famously stubborn. Laid-back and affectionate, sociable with people and dogs. Can be vocal (bays and howls).
Trainability
Challenging — smart but independent and stubborn, and the nose overrides everything. Food helps; recall is poor. Housetraining takes patience.
With kids & pets
Generally excellent with both — patient, tolerant pack dogs. A gentle family choice.
Living situation
Adaptable, including apartments, but the baying can be a neighbor issue. Those long backs and heavy bodies mean limit jumping and stairs; keep them lean.
Grooming & shedding
Short coat but sheds more than expected. Clean the long ears and facial folds regularly; some drool.
Health & costs
Watch for ear infections (those long ears), obesity, back problems (long spine), bloat, and eye issues. Keeping them lean is the single most important thing you control.
Best fit
Relaxed households wanting a gentle, easygoing, sociable companion, who won't mind the stubbornness and baying and will manage the weight and ears.
Free guide
Get the free Basset Hound owner guide
The honest first-90-days checklist, plus the questions to answer before you bring one home.
No spam, and you can leave any time.
A note from Kerri
Bassets are lovable, mellow, funny dogs — but don't mistake the droopy look for low-maintenance. That nose makes them stubborn and escape-prone, they bay, and they pile on weight that wrecks their long backs. Keep them lean, clean those ears, and enjoy the comedy.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
Shop this
Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
Shop this
Vila Pet Food Measuring Scoop Set
Provides the precision needed to measure meals accurately rather than relying on often-overestimated bag guidelines.
Shop this
Fruitables Baked Dog Treats (Pumpkin & Blueberry)
A low-calorie reward option that makes it easy to keep treats under the recommended 10% of daily caloric intake.
Shop this
Greater Goods Digital Pet Scale
Allows for the monthly weight checks recommended in the content to accurately assess and adjust your dog's body condition.
Shop this
WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.