| Height | up to 15 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 40-65 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Charming / Patient / Low-Key [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | France [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 34 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Basset Hounds are not as active as some breeds, but they do require regular, moderate exercise. Usually a daily walk at a moderate pace will fill the bill. Exercise will help to keep the Basset healthy and prevent him from becoming overweight. [1]
Grooming
Although it might seem that with his short, smooth hair the Basset Hound won't need any grooming, that's not quite the case. Regular grooming sessions are an important part of keeping the breed healthy and happy. The Basset's short hair can shed profusely. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Because of the Basset's ears are long and droopy, it's important to check them frequently to ensure that air circulation hasn't led to an infection. Shaking the head or scratching at the ears may indicate the need for a vet visit. Responsible breeders check for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, bleeding disorders, and luxating patella, a dislocated kneecap once called a 'trick knee' in humans. Brushing your dog's teeth with specially formulated canine toothpaste at least twice a week is also a vital part of Basset health care. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) - DNA Test, Thrombopathia (Basset Hound) - DNA Test, Lafora Disease - DNA Test, Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (Basset Hound) (POAG) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Basset Hound in 1885. [1]
- It ranked No. 34 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 39 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Basset.” [1]
- The AKC lists France as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) - DNA Test. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Calmer households (AKC energy 2/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
- ⚠️ Think twice: Neat freaks: AKC rates drooling 4/5
Common questions
How long do Basset Hounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-13 years.
How big does a Basset Hound get?
AKC breed information lists height up to 15 inches and weight 40-65 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Basset Hound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Basset Hound, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.