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Basset Hound Dog Breed
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Karen's Animal Webart Graphics
Basset Hounds are descended from the old St. Hubert
hounds. Used to trail and drive game away, the Basset has had such
famous admirers as King Edward VII and Shakespeare. The Basset was
bred for hunting small game. The Basset's long ears were developed
to stir up and hold the scent for their strong nose to smell. The
folds of skin under the chin, called the dewlap, help trap and hold
the scent. Wrinkles about the head and face also aid in holding
the scent. Their large feet make them steady and the heavy bones
make them sturdy. With their short legs they are ideal for slow
trailing which allows hunters to follow on foot. The Basset is used
primarily to hunt rabbit although they were first used on other
small game such as pheasant.
The Basset Hound is one of the best dogs available
for a family to love. They are extremely tolerant and love everyone
in the family equally. They are a very gentle, sweet, loyal and
affectionate breed, although they are quite stubborn at times. They
get along well with other pets of various species. They are not
an aggressive watchdog but will learn to give a deep bark as a warning
if praised when sounding off. Otherwise, they will accept visitors
with a sniff and return to a favorite corner. The Basset Hound is
a versatile pet who will play with children, make a skilled hunter,
and sit by their owner's side during quiet times.
Basset Hounds have gentle dispositions. They were
bred to be pack dogs and to get along with each other. This makes
the male as friendly, mild, and easy to live with as the female.
Males are not as aggressive as some other breeds of dogs, and they
are usually not as prone to "marking" their territory
unless there is an unneutered male around.
The Basset Hound claims excellent health. He is not
prone to many hereditary weaknesses that are present in some other
breeds. Many of the Basset's health problems can be attributed to
his owner because he allowed his dog to become overweight, possibly
resulting in aggravated arthritis, back problems, or heart trouble.
Physical fitness is as important to the Basset as it is to humans.
The Basset Hound enjoys running and leading an active life. Dogs
raised in areas of the country where they can participate in the
popular sport of field trialing can enjoy particularly good health.
The Basset is an endurance dog.
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