Basset Hound

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History/Origin
The emergence of Basset Hound dogs records back to early medieval France. It was during the time of the Bishop of Leige named Francois Hubert that the breed became popular. The friar loved hunting with his dog companions. Because of the breed is a constant sight with the aforementioned personality, it was not long before the dogs came to be known as St. Hubert's hound dogs.

Eventually, the name evolved into Basset Hound. Its name is derived from "bas," a word which means low or near ground in French. This can change of name can be attributed to the medieval times, when hunters saw the need for low stature dogs to accompany them on hunting sprays. They usually brought along Basset Hound dogs because this breed can stoop to almost ground-level under the bushes.

The earliest dogs of this breed were hunters of rabbits and hares. This breed has been trained to trail games, but not to kill them.

Description
Like other hounds, the Basset Hound is notable for its coat and color. Notwithstanding the loose skin from the neck up, which is typical of hounds, the breed has a short-haired and smooth coat adorned with various colors. The colors are generally a combination of white, black, and tan. The coat, meanwhile, rarely appears as gray or blue that are regarded as undesirable and unpopular colors.

But despite its attractive coat and color, the size and body features of this breed are not to be ignored. The Basset Hound can reach from 13" to 15" tall and can weigh from 45 up to 65 lbs. The neck is powerful and firm, and the ears are very large and usually slope down from the dog's front to its breast. The feet are large and the toes are widely spread. Because of the strange build and the mentioned contradictory physical traits -- large bodies and very short legs -- the breed has earned the monicker of "dwarves."

Appearances aside, the dog is a pretty good and unique breed. Instead of barking, the dog howls as a warning for any incoming dangers. Sometimes, the dog produces a soft, murmur-like sounds when communicating with each other. The Basset Hound is also not to be left behind, with its highly sensitive nose, which can easily track down prey.

Temperament
The Basset Hound is an amiable dog. The dog generally has a calm disposition, which makes it a suitable companion for people especially children. The dog is also the right partner for people who likes taking walks and going outdoors because it is important that the animal is kept from being sluggish.

Aside from human companions, the breed also goes along well with other types of dogs. Since this breed comes from the "pack" type of canines, the Basset Hound doesn't like to be on its own.