They have beautiful heads with the most wonderful serious expressions and long ears that sweep the ground when using their very keen nose on the scent. They are very sturdy with plenty of heart and lung room to enable them to track and follow a scent for long periods of time. The word Basset comes from the French meaning dwarfed or low-set. They also were prized for their extremely good sense of smell and for following a scent with great persistence. The persistent side of the breed must always be remembered as it still dominates their character.
Basset are pack animals who are good-tempered affectionate and loyal.
They are very sociable, loving the company of both humans and other animals. A Basset regards his owners as members of the pack and it is natural for him to try and work his way up in the pecking order hoping to become the leader. Basset Hounds are not usually destructive, and as long as there is a bone or something to chew, he will leave your furniture alone. Though Basset Hounds look very appealing and are easy to cuddle when very young it is well to remember that they grow into large dogs. In adulthood they will require a walk every day as they are built to keep going all day.