Overview
The Basset Hound as we know it was developed in Britain from French stock into a heavier, more exaggerated dog: long body, deep bone, loose skin and very long ears. It was meant to trail hare at a pace a person could follow, and it still does everything slowly except when a scent is involved.
Bassets are gentle, sociable and very hard to hurry. A good walk with one is less about exercise than about letting the dog read the ground, with you attached to the other end of the lead.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day split into two outings is enough for a healthy adult. Distance will be modest and the dog will stop constantly. That is the breed, not laziness.
Weight is a constant concern. Bassets gain easily and carry it badly on their frame, so keep walks regular and treats small. Avoid steep steps and jumping; the back and the front legs take the strain.
On the walk
- Recall: Famously poor. A Basset on a scent moves slowly but with total commitment and cannot hear you. Keep it on a lead or long line.
- Lead manners: A heavy, steady pull towards smells and sudden stops that nearly take your arm off. A padded harness protects both of you.
- Other dogs: Placid and tolerant. Bassets rarely start anything and mostly ignore the antics of other dogs.
- Voice: Deep, carrying and used both on a trail and when the dog feels left out. Choose quiet routes if the dog is a baying type.
- Ears and skin: Long ears trail in everything and the skin folds hold dirt. Both need checking after walks.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk the dog on its own time. Trying to speed up a Basset is exhausting and pointless.
- Lift the dog in and out of cars; most owners will insist on it.
- Dry and check the ears after wet walks and note any smell or redness in your report.
- Keep summer walks short and cool; the heavy body overheats faster than you would expect.
What to ask the owner
- Any back, joint or eye problems, and what is the dog allowed to climb or jump?
- What are the rules on treats, and is the dog on a weight-control diet?
- Does the owner want the ears and skin folds wiped after walks?