Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are calm, intelligent, and generally friendly. These traits in addition to their keen sense of smell made the Basset Hound a good hunting dog. Basset Hounds tend to be less energetic than other breeds, however their high level of endurance helps them compete in tracking, field trials, agility, rally and traditional obedience as sport.

Basset Hound History:

The Basset Hound originated from Belgium when the area was occupied by the French. In the sixteenth century the breed was developed by the Friars at the Abbey of St. Hubert. The aim was to develop a dog that would be able to hunt small game in dense bushes. The breed would also need to keep to a walking pace that could be maintained by humans, who would follow the dog on foot while hunting.

The Basset Hound is a direct descendant of the now extinct St. Hubert's Hound. The St. Hubert's Hound was also a close relative of the Bloodhound, which is why Bloodhounds and Basset Hounds have a number of characteristics in common.

The Basset Hound Club was established in England in 1884 and in that year the breed was also introduced to the United States. American Kennel Club recognition of the breed took place in 1885 and in 1935 America founded its own organisation, the Basset Hound Club of America.