Basset Hound Health: Essential Care Tips & Longevity Guide

The charming and distinctive Basset Hound originally comes from France, bred for tracking hares and rabbits. Renowned for its keen sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound, the Basset is also famous in American pop culture, having been featured as the mascot for Hush Puppies footwear.

This breed’s unique appearance—characterized by a long, low body, short legs, droopy ears, and loose skin—brings specific health considerations potential pet parents should understand. Gaining insight into these aspects ensures you can provide the best care tailored for your Basset’s well-being throughout their life.

1. Proper Care for Basset Hound Ears

The Basset’s lengthy, floppy ears, often called "leathers," tend to hang low, sometimes brushing the floor or food bowls, limiting air flow and increasing the risk of infections or ear mite issues. In the US, veterinarians stress regular and thorough ear cleaning and drying to prevent these common problems.

Owners should take precautions to keep their dog’s ears from dragging on surfaces or dipping into water and food dishes, which can exacerbate ear troubles. Inspecting ears daily, managing wax accumulation, and promptly consulting your veterinarian when signs of infection appear — such as redness, odor, or discharge — are crucial for sound ear health.

2. Basset Hound Build and Joint Health Management

Bassets display a form of canine dwarfism called osteochondrodysplasia, giving them their short legs and elongated backs. This structure predisposes them to joint conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a spinal disorder causing discomfort and limited mobility.

Jumping from elevated surfaces can be particularly risky, risking damage to hips, spine, and limbs. This is especially true for younger pups and senior dogs. Consistent monitoring of their weight and ensuring moderate, gentle exercise — like leash walks or swimming — helps maintain joint integrity.

3. Eye Care Recommendations

The large, soulful eyes of Basset Hounds are prone to irritation and infections due to their exposed placement. Debris and mucus tend to collect under the lower eyelids, so daily wiping with a soft, damp cloth can prevent buildup. Be vigilant for signs like redness, swelling, or unusual discharge and seek professional veterinary care if abnormalities arise.

4. Skin and Coat Maintenance

Bassets’ loose folds of skin can trap moisture and dirt, making them susceptible to skin issues such as dermatitis and yeast infections, commonly around the mouth where drooling occurs. Regularly cleaning and thoroughly drying these skin folds is key, and some US pet owners use veterinarian-recommended absorbent powders to keep the area dry and healthy.

5. Exercise Needs to Promote Health

Though their relaxed demeanor might suggest otherwise, Basset Hounds require routine physical activity to stay at a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related issues, including joint strain and heart problems. As sturdy scent hounds bred for endurance, Bassets prefer long, steady walks and gentle play over bursts of intense running.

American owners often find that daily neighborhood strolls and engaging scent games help satisfy both their physical and mental needs, supporting overall well-being.

6. Lifespan Expectations and Common Health Challenges

On average, Basset Hounds live about 11 to 13 years, which aligns with other medium-sized breeds. Typical health challenges that may affect their longevity include cancers, heart disease, gastric dilatation volvulus (commonly called bloat), and complications worsened by obesity.

Because excess weight can exacerbate many health problems, maintaining a balanced diet suited to their age and activity level is essential to support a long, comfortable life.

Responsible Ownership and Health Monitoring

Routine check-ups with a trusted veterinarian are critical to detect and address health issues early on. When looking for a Basset Hound puppy, US families are encouraged to seek reputable breeders who conduct genetic health screening and maintain high standards for temperament and wellbeing.

By combining attentive grooming, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and injury prevention, American Basset Hound caretakers can ensure their beloved pets enjoy a joyful, healthy life well into their senior years.