The BASSETT HOUND is one of the gentlest of all dogs.  Some Bassets are dignified; others are clowns, but all of them are friendly and trustworthy.  A Basset adores its master and loves children in particular going so far as to put up stoically with being dressed like a doll pr pushed around in a baby carriage.  It cares more for its people than anything else in the world.  That is why it should always be included in family activities and also why it adapts especially well to city or apartment living.  But it does have to get a lot of exercise, even though it gives the impression of not enjoying so much exertion.  A fat Basset Hound will develop major health problems.

 The Basset is a direct descendent of the Bloodhound and has inherited its fabulous nose from this ancestor of all hounds.  Thorough and patient obedience training is crucial so that you can be sure that your Basset will come when called, even when following an interesting scent.  Bassets can be extremely obstinate, but often display a real sense of humor even while disobeying; they hardly ever present a real problem.  The Basset is a dog of substance, physically as well as mentally, and deserves to be treated with respect