Basset hound information and facts is something that anyone who is interested in owning this breed should know. After all, though they are known for their sweet and gentle disposition, there is more to this floppy eared dog than meets their puppy dog eyes. Thus, if you believe bassets are the right pooch for you and your family, here are a few general tidbits about them you should think on prior to making any major life altering decisions.

History - It is believed that the breed possibly existed before the 16th century, but based on early basset hound information and facts, the first time the dog was mentioned was in the late 1550's by a Frenchman named, Fouilloux, who spoke of the canine in his hunting text. Bassets are recognized as direct descendants of blood hounds, and were originally bred for hunting fox, hare, opossum and pheasant. They were celebrated for their keen sense of smell and their docile, devoted and loving nature. These canines are part of the Hound dog group and have been nicknamed the "Hush Puppy Dog".

General Appearance - This dog is very low to the ground and has a relatively long and stocky body. His two most distinctive features are his long floppy ears that fall to just above his legs, and his round soulful eyes. The most common coat coloring is a tricolour mixture of black, white and tan. However, the coat can also be a bicolour mixture of white and lemon.

Size - According to basset hound information and facts, he is a medium sized dog, weighing approximately 45 - 65 pounds and standing 11-15 inches at the withers.

Temperament and sociability - Although natural born hunters, this pooch is one of the least aggressive dogs you can own. He is well mannered, peaceful, friendly, sweet and gentle to all, including strangers. He even gets a long well with most family pets. He adapts to virtually any family environment and is highly sociable. The basset is very affectionate and patient with children, and enjoys playing with them. He also makes for a good watchdog, but is not a guard dog.

Energy - While historical basset hound information and facts reveal that this particular canine loves the outdoors, which is very true, he is quite lazy indoors and is happy to lie around for hours. This makes bassets suitable to both apartments and houses. They should be taken for a 20 minute walk two times per day and have playtime. Note: Always keep this breed on a leash when walking because they will take off to track a scent if they pick up a smell that interests them.

Training - He can be slow to housebreak and very stubborn to train. You need to be persistent, consistent and have patience with your pet.

Grooming - These pooches are average shedders, but their smooth, short coat is easy to take care of, and only needs to be brushed a few times a week. Another essential part of their grooming is ear checking and cleaning, which should take place once per week to prevent infections.

Life span - Basset hounds live an average of 10-12 years

Health issues - Last but not least, important basset hound information and facts that should not be overlooked are health issues. Bassets are prone to: obesity, ear infections, otitis externa (smelly ear), bloat, Von Willebrand's disease (blood disease), interdigital cysts (cysts between toes), and glaucoma.