Basset Hound
BASS-it HOWND
Patient, Charming, Stubborn, Low-key. Originally bred for trailing rabbits and hares by scent.
An adult Basset Hound weighs 50-70 lbs (male) or 45-65 lbs (female), needs 670-1,310 calories daily, and lives 12-13 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is obesity. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Basset Hound needs 670 to 1,310 calories per day. An average male (60 lbs / 27.2 kg) needs around 1,000 kcal; a female (55 lbs / 24.9 kg) roughly 940 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Basset Hound. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The Basset Hound has a life expectancy of 12-13 yrs, which is typical for dogs in this size range. The breed's primary health concerns are obesity and ear infections, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Moderate but consistent. A Basset needs daily walks but won't demand intense exercise. The danger is letting them become too sedentary; their easygoing nature means they'll happily nap all day if you let them. Hound breeds follow their noses (or eyes) with single-minded determination. Off-leash exercise for a Basset Hound requires a securely fenced area because recall is unreliable when a scent captures their attention. Nose work, tracking games, and long leash walks through interesting environments channel their natural instincts constructively.
Care and traits
Basset Hounds have a short, smooth, dense coat. Origin: France.
Those long ears need weekly cleaning to prevent infections. The loose skin and droopy eyes that give Bassets their charm also trap moisture and debris. Their powerful nose can override all training when they catch a scent; a leash or fence is non-negotiable.
Grooming needs are minimal. A weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils is sufficient for most Basset Hounds. Bathing is only needed when the dog is noticeably dirty or smelly.
Training requires patience with the Basset Hound. They are intelligent but may be independent or stubborn about following commands. Keep sessions short, use high-value rewards, and maintain consistency. Harsh corrections backfire with this breed.
Tools for Basset Hound owners
Frequently asked questions
A healthy adult Basset Hound requires between 670 and 1310 calories daily. A 60-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Monitor body condition monthly rather than relying solely on the scale. Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being immediately obvious. Active hunting hounds burn significantly more than the resting estimate. Adjust for actual activity level. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 50-70 lbs (22.7–31.8 kg). Females run lighter at 45-65 lbs (20.4–29.5 kg). Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being visually obvious, especially those with thick coats. Hands-on rib checks are more reliable than looking. The best home assessment is the rib test: place your thumbs on the spine and spread your fingers across the ribs. You should feel each rib individually. If you have to press to find them, the dog is carrying extra weight.
Obesity is the primary health concern vets flag for Basset Hounds. Weight management is the single most impactful thing you can do for this breed's long-term health. Measure every meal, limit treats to under 10% of daily calories, and weigh your dog monthly. Other conditions seen in the breed include ear infections, hip dysplasia, bloat. Awareness of these breed tendencies allows for early intervention, which often improves outcomes significantly.
A daily routine of 30 to 60 minutes of movement suits most Basset Hounds. Good activities for this breed include scent trails, tracking games, long rural walks. Mix physical activity with mental challenges like training, puzzle feeders, or nose work. Even low-energy breeds need daily movement for joint health, weight management, and mental well-being.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026