Basset Hound

Do Basset Hounds shed?

Basset Hounds shed a moderate amount — noticeable but manageable with regular brushing. Expect heavier shedding in spring and autumn as they blow their coat. A weekly brush reduces the hair in your home significantly. Not the breed for anyone with severe allergies, but most people manage fine.

Are Basset Hounds good with kids?

Yes — Basset Hounds are generally good with children. They tend to be patient and devoted, which makes them a natural fit for busy family life. Always supervise any dog around young children, regardless of breed.

Are Basset Hounds good with cats?

Basset Hounds can get along well with cats, especially if raised together from puppyhood. Their patient nature means they're generally not fixated on chasing. Introduce them slowly — keep the cat's exit routes open and never force interaction. Most Basset Hounds and cats eventually settle into an easy coexistence, sometimes even becoming friends.

Are Basset Hounds easy to train?

Basset Hounds are honest work to train — they have an independent streak and won't follow a command unless they understand why it benefits them. The stubbornness is real: they're not stupid, they just have their own agenda. Patience and consistency are non-negotiable. Short sessions with high-value treats (think chicken, not dry kibble) get better results than long frustrating drills. Puppy classes are strongly recommended — not because they need it more than other breeds, but because early foundations make life significantly easier.

Do Basset Hounds bark a lot?

Basset Hounds are a vocal breed. They bark at strangers, at sounds, sometimes at nothing visible at all. This isn't a problem you can fully train away — it's part of the breed's character. If you live in a flat or semi-detached house with thin walls, this is worth seriously considering before you buy. Early training and mental stimulation reduce unnecessary barking, but it won't disappear entirely.

Are Basset Hounds hypoallergenic?

No — Basset Hounds are not hypoallergenic. They shed medium amounts of hair and dander, which is the main allergen trigger for most people. If allergies are a dealbreaker, consider a Poodle, Bichon Frise, or a Poodle-cross (Cockapoo, Cavapoo, Labradoodle) instead — all produce much less dander.

How much exercise does a Basset Hound need?

Basset Hounds need 30–45 min/day of exercise daily. They're a relatively low-maintenance breed in this respect — shorter walks suit them fine, and they're perfectly happy with a relaxed routine. Good for owners who can't commit to marathon exercise sessions daily.

Mental exercise matters as much as physical. A Basset Hound with a bored brain will find its own entertainment — usually involving your sofa or your shoes. Training sessions, puzzle feeders, and nose-work games all count.

Basset Hound health problems

Like all breeds, Basset Hounds are prone to certain conditions. Knowing about them upfront means earlier detection, better outcomes, and fewer surprise vet bills.

• Dental disease. Smaller breeds have crowded teeth and are prone to periodontal issues. Brush teeth regularly.
• Luxating patella. Kneecap slipping, especially common in small breeds.
• Obesity. The most preventable health problem across all dog breeds. Keep them at a healthy weight.
• Annual vet checks. Catching problems early makes all the difference.

How long do Basset Hounds live?

Basset Hounds typically live 10–12 years. This is fairly typical for a medium-sized breed.

Lifespan is heavily influenced by weight management, exercise, genetics, and access to regular vet care. A Basset Hound at a healthy weight, with good genetics and regular check-ups, will typically live toward the top of that range.

How much does a Basset Hound cost in the UK?

A Basset Hound puppy from a reputable KC-registered UK breeder typically costs £700–£1 800.

If you see a Basset Hound puppy advertised for significantly less than £700, be very cautious. Low prices are the most common red flag for puppy farms.

The purchase price is just the start. First-year costs typically include:

• Vaccinations: ~£80–120
• Neutering/spaying: £200–400 depending on size and vet
• Microchipping (mandatory in UK): ~£20–30
• Bed, crate, leads, collar: £100–250
• Food (per year): £400–£1,200+ depending on size and diet
• Pet insurance: £30–£65/month (see below)
• Routine vet visits: £50–200/year

Total first-year cost beyond the puppy price: typically £1,500–£3,000.

Basset Hound pet insurance

Pet insurance for a Basset Hound in the UK typically costs £30–£65/month for comprehensive lifetime cover.

Lifetime cover is strongly recommended over cheaper time-limited or maximum-benefit policies. Once a condition is diagnosed and treated, lifetime cover continues to pay for it every year. Time-limited policies exclude it after 12 months — exactly when chronic conditions become expensive.

Compare quotes from Petplan, ManyPets, Waggel, and Animal Friends — all have strong reputations for actually paying out claims. Always check the annual limit (aim for £7,000+ per condition) and whether hereditary conditions are covered.