The Complete Guide to Basset Hounds

Book excerpt: The Basset Hound has an unmistakable profile. They have the long, square snout, muscular body, and loose skin of their Bloodhound ancestors, but with short legs and a long, sabre-shaped tail. The olfactory ability of this breed is second only to the Bloodhound itself, and they are unrelenting once they have caught a scent. Both the short legs and the long, upwardly curved tail-which is tipped in white-are designed to make these stout hounds easier for hunters to follow on foot. Although they are enthusiastic hunters in the field, they tend to be calmer and more relaxed at home, sometimes to the point of laziness. Bassets are particularly agreeable animals, both with people and with other dogs, and they make excellent family companions as well as exemplary hunting hounds. They are typically gentle with young children, have a very pleasant disposition, and are comfortable in the role of everyone's best friend and confidant. Basset Hounds aren't right for everyone, however, as they can be stubborn, tend to be highly skilled counter-surfers, and frequently howl when left alone for long periods.