Daily walk and sniff-fari is usually enough. Exercise is light but important for weight.
Knows what they’re doing. May pretend not to hear you. Training takes patience.
Gentle with kids, tolerant of chaos, and prefers naps to games.
Low-maintenance coat but needs regular ear and wrinkle cleaning.
Can be a howler—especially when left alone or bored.
Nope. Lots of drool, dander, and hair.
Start with our First 48 Hours Survival Guide to get your new pup set up for success from day one.
Then dive into the full Puppy 101 Series—your go-to hub for raising a happy, well-adjusted dog.
And if you’re ready to go even deeper, grab a copy of the book: Help! I Got a Puppy. It’s everything you didn’t know you needed to know.
Living with a Basset Hound is like sharing your life with a slow-moving, long-eared philosopher who moonlights as a comedy act. They’re mellow, affectionate, and delightfully stubborn. You’ll say “come”—they’ll blink at you, sigh dramatically, and maybe consider it in five minutes. But when they lean their heavy head against you or look up with those droopy eyes? Total heart-melt.
They’re happiest in homes with a chill vibe: soft couches, snack breaks, and people who understand that motivation is a slow-burning flame. Bassets are emotionally attuned, great with kids, and content to be near their people—even if “near” means snoring on the floor while you fold laundry.
Don’t expect a fetch machine or agility star. Expect warmth, humor, and a dog who marches to the beat of their own (very slow) drum. For those who appreciate charm over compliance and cuddles over chaos, a Basset Hound makes every day softer, slower, and sweeter.
• Hilarious and laid-back
• Prone to howling and stubbornness
• Gentle with kids
• Needs consistent ear care
• Motivated by snacks, not praise
Basset Hounds thrive in mellow, affectionate homes where the vibe is soft, the snacks are plentiful, and the pace is slow. Whether it’s a roomy house with a yard or a cozy apartment, they’re content as long as they’re close to their people—and preferably on something cushioned.
Because of their long backs and short legs, stairs can be a challenge (and a health risk), so homes with minimal vertical navigation are ideal. A few short walks a day and plenty of naptime in a sunny patch or on the couch is their dream routine.
They’re wonderful for families who value companionship and have a good sense of humor about stubbornness. If your home is full of love, warmth, and the occasional snack share, a Basset will fit right in—ear flops and all.
I’m slow, stubborn, sweet, and slightly smelly—but in an endearing way. I enjoy sniffing every blade of grass, flopping dramatically on soft furniture, and giving soulful looks until you share your snack. If your idea of a perfect day includes minimal movement, maximum cuddles, and zero pressure, we might be a match made in hound heaven.
• Prone to obesity—watch treats
• Can be hard to house-train
• Needs regular cleaning (ears, eyes, wrinkles)
• Hilariously stubborn
• Short legs, long naps
• Snuffle mat for nose work
• Low-sided orthopedic bed
• Ramp or steps for furniture
• Ear cleaning wipes
• Scented poop bags (trust me)
Basset Hounds are slow, sweet comedians wrapped in droopy ears and unmatched charm. With their laid-back vibe, gentle nature, and hilarious stubborn streak, they’re the perfect fit for families or individuals who want a low-key companion that brings laughter and love in equal measure. They may not win obedience trophies, but they’ll win your heart—especially if you’ve got snacks, a soft couch, and time for long, sniffy strolls. If you’re into cuddles over cardio and character over compliance, the Basset Hound is your mellow, lovable soulmate.
