How to Identify a Bassett Hound

The bassett hound is a short-legged, heavy-boned breed—allowing it to navigate difficult terrain—but it is by no means clumsy. Despite its shortness (a bassett hound should be no more than 14 inches tall at the shoulder), the bassett hound moves in an effortless manner and looks very smooth. Its short legs allow this dog to keep his nose quite close to the ground—a great trait for this scenting dog. Bassett hounds have excellent endurance and make very devoted pets.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   Look at the head. It should be large and well-proportioned. The length of the head is greater than the width of the head at the brow, giving it a medium width. This breed should not have a broad, flat skull, but the sides are flat and do not have cheek bumps. The skin on the head is loose, which gives this breed distinct wrinkles when the head is lowered. The neck has a good length and is arched. The eyes look sad and slightly sunken. They should be dark brown. The velvety ears are very long, and when drawn forward should fold over the end of the nose. They are set so far back on the head, it looks like they are on this breed’s neck.

2. Check the fore- and hindquarters. This breed has a deep chest, and the sternum shows clearly in front of the legs. The elbows should be close against the sides of the chest, as are the shoulders. The front legs are short and very powerful, and have wrinkled skin. The massive paws are well-rounded and turned a bit outward to balance the width of the shoulders. The full and well-rounded hindquarters are just about equal to the shoulders in width. The legs should not be bowed or cow-hocked.

3. Notice how the long, smooth rib structure extends far back. The ribs are well-sprung, which allows plenty of room for the heart and lungs. This breed should not have flat sides or flanged ribs. The tail has a slight curve and should not be docked. The hair on the underside is coarse.

4. Feel the smooth coat. It should be hard and short. It has enough density to protect the breed in all weather. The loose skin is elastic. There are no set colors or markings on the bassett hound.