15 Fun Facts About Basset Hounds

With their droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are impossible to ignore. But there’s much more to these lovable low-riders than just their adorable looks. From their powerful noses to their surprising sense of humor, here are 15 fun facts about Basset Hounds that might just make you fall in love all over again.

Their Ears Serve a Purpose

Those long, floppy ears aren’t just for show. As Basset Hounds move along the ground, their ears help stir up scents and funnel them toward the nose. It’s like having built-in scent guides. Combined with loose facial skin that traps smells, these features make Bassets some of the best scent trackers in the dog world.

They Have a Nose Second Only to the Bloodhound

Basset Hounds have an incredible sense of smell. In fact, among all dog breeds, only the Bloodhound ranks higher. A Basset has around 220 million scent receptors, compared to a human’s 5 million. That’s why they’re used in tracking and search work and also why they’ll follow a trail right out of your yard if given the chance.

“Basset” Means “Low” in French

The word “basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low.” Fitting, right? These dogs were bred to be close to the ground so they could trail game animals like rabbits and deer slowly and steadily without scaring them off. Their short legs were no accident. They’re a product of purposeful design.

They Were Bred for Hunting, Not Lounging

Despite their sleepy expressions, Basset Hounds are actually working dogs. Originally developed in France and later popularized in England, they were bred to hunt small game. Their endurance, powerful nose, and methodical tracking style made them ideal for hunters on foot. 

Their Bark Is Louder Than You’d Expect

Basset Hounds have deep, booming voices that seem to come from much larger dogs. Their bark, howl, or bay can carry across long distances, which makes them ideal for communicating with hunters. It also means apartment living can get a little noisy if your Basset decides to express their opinion often and loudly.

They’re Surprisingly Heavy for Their Size

Basset Hounds may look small, but they’re dense. With big bones and solid muscle, a full-grown Basset can weigh between 50 to 65 pounds. Picking one up isn’t as easy as it might seem. That weight, combined with short legs, means they’re not the best swimmers or jumpers, so ramps are often a better choice than stairs.

They’re Prone to Selective Hearing

If you’ve ever called a Basset Hound while they were sniffing something interesting, you’ve probably noticed their highly selective hearing. It’s not that they’re ignoring you. They’re just completely absorbed in whatever scent trail they’re following. Training a Basset requires patience, consistency, and sometimes a sense of humor.

They Get Along with Almost Everyone

Basset Hounds are known for their gentle, easygoing personalities. They tend to get along well with kids, other dogs, and even cats. Their calm demeanor makes them a great choice for families or multi-pet households. While they can be a bitstubborn, their loving nature often outweighs any training challenges.

Elvis Presley Sang to One on TV

In 1956, Elvis Presley sang “Hound Dog” to a Basset Hound dressed in a top hat on The Steve Allen Show. The performance was meant to be a joke, but it became a memorable moment in pop culture history. The confused-looking Basset sat stoically as Elvis belted out the lyrics, stealing the show without moving a muscle.

Their Wrinkles Have a Purpose

All those droopy folds aren’t just for show. A Basset Hound’s wrinkles help trap scent particles as they track. This helps reinforce the smell they’re following, giving them an edge when hot on a trail. Of course, those same wrinkles can also trap dirt and moisture, so regular cleaning is part of the grooming routine.

They’re Surprisingly Athletic—When They Want to Be

Although Bassets have a reputation for being lazy, they’re capable of bursts of energy. When the mood strikes, they’ll play, chase, and trot around the yard with impressive speed for their build. The trick is convincing them it’s worth the effort. Motivation often comes in the form of food or a really good scent.

They Shed More Than You’d Think

Thanks to their short but dense coat, Basset Hounds shed year-round. You might not notice it at first, but their hair adds up fast, especially on furniture or dark clothing. Regular brushing helps control the shedding and keeps their coat healthy. Just don’t expect them to be a low-maintenance breed.

They’ve Been Featured in Cartoons and Commercials

With their distinctive look, Basset Hounds have made their way into countless commercials, cartoons, and even brand logos. One of the most famous is the mascot for Hush Puppies shoes. The breed’s laid-back look and charm have made it a favorite in advertising and pop culture for decades.

They Love to Sleep—but Need Daily Walks

Bassets love a good nap and will happily snooze for hours. But they still need regular walks to stay healthy and avoid weight gain. Their joints and back can suffer if they become too sedentary. A couple of daily strolls plus some sniff time in the yard usually keep them satisfied.

They Have One of the Most Expressive Faces in Dogdom

Few dogs can convey emotion like a Basset Hound. With their droopy eyes, hanging jowls, and sad-looking brows, they always look like they just heard terrible news. But don’t be fooled—those sad faces often hide a goofy, happy personality that’s full of affection and mischief.