basset hound

The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog in the hound family. The Basset is a scent hound that was originally bred for the purpose of hunting hare. Their sense of smell and ability to ground-scent is second only to the Bloodhound. Basset Hounds are one of six recognized "basset"-type breeds in France. The name Basset is derived from the French word , meaning 'low', with the attenuating suffix -et—together meaning 'rather low'. Basset Hounds are usually bicolours or tricolours of standard hound coloration. Description Appearance Bassets are large, short, solid and long, with curved sabre tails held high over their long backs. An adult dog weighs between . This breed, relative to its size, is heavier-boned than any other.