The Basset Hound is a gentle, easygoing scent hound with long ears, short legs and one of the best noses in the dog world. Owners most often struggle with loud baying, a stubborn streak, following their nose instead of listening, weight gain, drool and ear care, all of which become easier with patience, routines and reward-based training.
Basset Hound at a glance
- Size: Medium height but heavy-boned, usually around 40 to 65 pounds.
- Energy level: Low to moderate. They enjoy daily sniff walks but are relaxed indoors.
- Shedding level: Moderate. The short coat sheds steadily year-round.
- Barking tendency: Moderate to high. Many bay or howl, especially when bored or on a scent.
- Good for first-time owners: Yes, with patience for training and a plan for barking.
- Time alone tolerance: Moderate. Many are pack-minded and may howl when left for long hours.
Common Basset Hound problems and solutions
Basset Hounds are sweet, laid-back dogs that live through their noses. Here are the questions owners search for most, with short, practical answers.
Why does my Basset Hound howl so much?
Baying is a natural hound way to communicate, especially when bored, lonely or excited by a scent. Meet exercise and company needs, then reward quiet; see why dogs bark at everything for a step-by-step plan. Scent games at home give that voice and nose a satisfying job.
Why does my Basset howl at night?
Night howling can come from boredom, outside noises or a need for a potty break. Offer an evening sniff walk and a cosy sleeping spot near you; read how to stop dog barking at night. A consistent bedtime routine helps your dog learn when it is time to rest.
Why does my Basset howl when I leave?
Bassets are social dogs that may dislike being alone. Practise short, calm departures and give a long-lasting chew; our guide to helping a dog with separation anxiety explains how to build up slowly. A radio or calm background sound can also mask outside noises.
Why is my Basset Hound so stubborn?
Bassets were bred to follow a scent independently, so they often decide for themselves. Short sessions, tasty rewards and lots of patience work far better than repetition or harsh corrections. Find out which treats your dog loves most and save them for training.
Why does my Basset pull on the leash?
Their noses lead the way, and a heavy Basset can pull hard toward a smell. Reward walking beside you and use sniff breaks as a reward; see how to stop leash pulling. A well-fitted harness spreads pressure and is usually more comfortable for this sturdy breed.
Why won’t my Basset come when called?
Once a Basset finds a scent, it can tune out everything else. Practise recall with great rewards on a long line in a safe area, and read how to teach a dog to come when called. Keep your dog leashed in unfenced spaces, since a scent can lead a Basset a long way.
Do Basset Hounds shed a lot?
They shed moderately all year. A weekly brush with a rubber mitt removes loose hair, and our guide on getting dog hair off a couch helps with furniture. Washable throws on favourite resting spots save a lot of cleaning.
Why does my Basset Hound smell?
Long ears, skin folds and drool can trap moisture and odour. Wipe ears and folds regularly, wash bedding often, and see removing dog smell from furniture for home tips.
Is a Basset Hound hard to potty train?
Bassets can be slow to house train because of their independent nature. Stick to a schedule, reward right away and clean accidents thoroughly; see puppy keeps peeing in the house. Keep a simple log of meals and outings to spot your dog’s natural rhythm.
Why does my Basset Hound drool so much?
Loose lips and jowls mean many Bassets drool, especially after drinking or around food. Keep a towel handy and wipe the mouth area to keep skin clean. Raised water bowls and a mat underneath can help keep the floor dry.
How do I stop my Basset stealing food?
That powerful nose finds every crumb. Keep counters clear, use bins with lids, and teach a “leave it” with rewards so your dog learns that ignoring food pays off. Feeding meals from puzzle toys also satisfies the urge to search for food.
Training tips for a Basset Hound
Bassets respond best to calm, food-motivated training. These reward-based steps help you work with your dog’s nose, not against it.
- Use food rewards. Most Bassets are very food-motivated, so small, healthy treats make training easier. Count them in the daily food allowance.
- Keep sessions short. A few minutes at a time keeps a stubborn hound interested.
- Teach “leave it” early. It protects your dog from eating things it should not.
- Make walks sniffy. Let your dog sniff as a reward for loose-leash walking.
- Practise handling. Gently touch ears, paws and folds with treats so cleaning stays easy.
- Stay patient and consistent. Bassets learn, just at their own pace, so celebrate small wins.
Health questions owners ask
This is general information only. Every dog is different, so talk to your vet about your own Basset’s needs.
Why does my Basset get ear infections?
Long, heavy ears limit air flow and can trap moisture. Check and gently clean ears as your vet recommends, and talk to your vet about redness, smell or head shaking.
Are Basset Hounds prone to back problems?
Their long backs and short legs mean back care is often discussed. Limit jumping off furniture, use ramps where helpful and talk to your vet about any stiffness or reluctance to move.
How do I keep my Basset at a healthy weight?
Bassets love food and gain weight easily, which adds strain to joints and back. Measure meals, limit extras and talk to your vet about a healthy target weight.
Do Bassets have eye problems?
Droopy lower lids can let debris collect, and some eye conditions are discussed for the breed. Wipe around the eyes gently and talk to your vet about redness or discharge.
Why is my Basset suddenly not eating?
Bassets usually love food, so a lost appetite is worth noticing. Read why a dog refuses to eat and talk to your vet if it lasts more than a day.
Is a Basset Hound right for you?
A Basset can be a gentle, affectionate family dog for people who enjoy a relaxed pace and do not mind a little noise.
Can a Basset Hound live in an apartment?
Yes, in many cases, since they are calm indoors. Baying can disturb neighbours, so plan training and company for when you are out. Stairs can be hard on their backs, so a building with an elevator helps.
Are Basset Hounds good with kids?
Many are patient and tolerant with children. Teach kids not to pull ears or climb on the dog’s back, and supervise play. Their calm nature often makes them a good match for families with older children.
Do Basset Hounds get along with other pets?
Most are pack-friendly and enjoy other dogs. Many live well with cats when introduced slowly.
Is a Basset good for first-time owners?
Yes, for a patient owner who can handle stubbornness, baying and grooming of ears and folds. Many first-time owners love their relaxed, affectionate nature.
Related guides
These guides cover the problems Basset owners mention most often.
- Barking solutions
- Leash problems and fixes
- Potty training guides
- Dog barking at neighbours
- Walking gear for strong sniffers
- Compare with the Beagle
Share your Basset Hound experience
Living with a Basset? Tell other owners what worked for you in our dogs.solutions community, or browse more breed guides to compare breeds. Your real tips on baying, training and ear care help other families enjoy life with this lovable hound.