Bassets are mellow and low-energy indoors but built around an extraordinary nose, so walks become slow sniff-fests and recall is unreliable once a scent takes hold. Keep them lean — extra weight is brutal on that long back — and clean the long ears and facial folds regularly. They bay loudly, dig in their heels when stubborn, and are wonderful, patient family dogs.
Basset Hound
- Vet-reviewed by Dr. Amara Okafor, DVM
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A droopy, easy-going scent hound with a will of iron and a nose second only to the Bloodhound — gentle, sociable and famously stubborn.
Temperament
- Easy-going
- Stubborn
- Affectionate
- Sociable
- Laid-back
Likes
- Following an interesting scent
- Snoozing and lounging
- Food (very motivated)
- Easy company with kids and dogs
Dislikes
- Being rushed on walks
- Stairs and jumps (back strain)
- Being left alone (bays)
- Dieting (but they need it)
Habits & quirks
- Loud, mournful baying and howling
- Nose glued to the ground, ignoring recall
- Stubborn 'sit-down strikes'
- Counter and bin raiding for food
Great for
- Families wanting a gentle, patient dog
- Laid-back, less-active households
- Homes that can tolerate some baying
- Multi-pet homes
Think twice if…
- Owners wanting off-lead reliability
- Homes sensitive to noise
- Anyone who can't manage weight + ears
- Upstairs flats without a lift
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
