Basset Hound Dog Registration

General Appearance

The Basset Hound is a short-legged, heavy-boned dog with a long body and a powerful sense of smell—second only to the Bloodhound. Despite its low stature, the breed is robust, with a strong, muscular build and a dignified, comical charm. Balance and sound movement are essential.

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Size

• Height: Up to 15 inches at the shoulder

• Weight: 40–65 pounds

• Proportions: Long-bodied but not exaggerated; length of body should be approximately twice the height at the withers.

Head

• Skull: Large and well-domed, with a pronounced occiput.

• Muzzle: Deep and full with loose, wrinkled skin.

• Stop: Moderate.

• Eyes: Soft, sad expression; brown or hazel depending on coat color.

• Ears: Extremely long, low-set, velvety, and curled inward—extending well beyond the end of the nose when pulled forward.

• Nose: Large and dark, with open nostrils.

• Lips: Pendulous and loose, especially around the flews.

Body

• Neck: Muscular, of good length with pronounced dewlap.

• Back: Level and firm, with a slight arch over the loin.

• Chest: Deep, extending well down between the forelegs.

• Ribs: Well-sprung but not barrel-shaped.

• Tail: Long, strong at the base, tapering, and carried high with a slight curve—often with a white tip.

Legs & Feet

• Forelegs: Short, powerful, and slightly bowed; elbows close to the body.

• Hindquarters: Muscular and slightly angulated; hocks well let down.

• Feet: Massive and well-rounded with thick pads; toes compact and knuckled over slightly.

Coat

• Type: Smooth, short, and hard; weather-resistant.

• Texture: Dense, with some looseness of skin around the body, especially around the neck and head.

• Color: All recognized hound colors are acceptable—commonly tri-color (black, white, and tan), red and white, or lemon and white.

Gait / Movement

The Basset moves with a smooth, deliberate, and powerful stride. The front legs should reach forward freely, and the hindquarters drive strongly. When viewed from the front or rear, legs move in a straight line with no deviation.

Temperament

The Basset Hound is calm, affectionate, and friendly. It is especially good with children and other pets. Though often stubborn and independent due to its hound nature, the breed is loyal and enjoys companionship.

• Disposition: Gentle, devoted, and easygoing

• Trainability: Requires patience and positive reinforcement

• Vocalization: May bay or bark when excited or on the trail

Faults

• Excessively coarse or overly refined build

• Flat feet or weak pasterns

• Excessively long body out of proportion with height

• Shyness or excessive aggression

• Straight shoulders or lack of rear angulation

Disqualifications

• Height over 15 inches at the withers

• Blue eyes

• Excessively wrinkled face obscuring the eyes

• Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism in males (undescended testicles)

Ideal Owner

The Basset Hound fits well with families, seniors, and anyone seeking a low-maintenance, low-energy companion. While they enjoy lounging, they also need daily walks to keep fit and mentally stimulated. Their stubborn streak makes training a fun challenge, but their loving personality makes them unforgettable companions.