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Basset Retriever Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Basset Retriever so you can get to know the breed more.

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OriginFrance flagFrance Scotland flagScotland
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Basset Hound and Golden Retriever mix

Basset Retriever Size and Weight

Size
Is a Basset Retriever small, medium or large dog?

How big do Basset Retriever get?

What is the average size of a Basset Retriever?

Large
Weight
How much does the Basset Retriever weigh? How much should a Basset Retriever weight? What is the normal weight of a Basset Retriever? How much does a full-grown Basset Retriever weight?
Male: 60-80 pounds (27-36 kg), Female: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Basset Retriever?
Male: 70 pounds (31.5 kg), Female: 62.5 pounds (28.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Basset Retriever? Basset Retriever height:
Male: 22-24 inches (56-61cm), Female: 20-22 inches (51-56 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Basset Retriever?
Male: 23 inches (58.5 cm), Female: 21 inches (53.5 cm)

Basset Retriever Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Basset Retriever puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Basset Retriever in the United States? How much money is a Basset Retriever?

Where to buy a Basset Retriever with a good pedigree?

$1000-$2000
If you choose to purchase the Basset Retriever, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Basset Retriever for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Basset Retriever gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Basset Retriever? How many Basset Retriever are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Basset Retriever is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Basset Retriever Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Basset Retriever? Is the Basset Retriever breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Basset Retriever ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Basset Retriever dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Basset Retriever?
Basset Retriever dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Basset Retriever good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Basset Retriever dogs are not the best watchdogs. They aren't very territorial and protective about their property, so they probably won't alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Basset Retriever dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Basset Retriever dogs are not the best to protect their territory. Better to have the protection of your house and property supervised by others.

Basset Retriever Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Basset Retriever have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
IntelligentConfidentFriendlyAffectionateReliableDevotedGentleTemperedKindSweetTenaciousTrustworthy
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Basset Retriever sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Basset Retriever dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Basset Retriever a good family dog?
High: Basset Retriever dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Basset Retriever need? Basset Retriever social needs:
Basset Retriever dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Basset Retriever to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Basset Retriever roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Basset Retriever is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Basset Retriever have high prey drive?
Basset Retriever dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Basset Retriever dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Basset Retriever Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Basset Retriever is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Basset Retriever dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Basset Retriever bark?
Average: The Basset Retriever barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Basset Retriever good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Basset Retriever in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Basset Retriever breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Basset Retriever indoors by introducing daily routines.

Basset Retriever Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Basset Retriever dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Basset Retriever be left alone? How long can you leave a Basset Retriever alone?
Basset Retriever dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Basset Retriever Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Basset Retriever has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Basset Retriever? How much bite force does a Basset Retriever have? How strong is a Basset Retriever bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Basset Retriever bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Basset Retriever measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Basset Retriever is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Basset Retriever bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Basset Retriever bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Basset Retriever puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Basset Retriever, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Basset Retriever bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Basset Retriever can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Basset Retriever bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Basset Retriever? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Basset Retriever? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Basset Retriever has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Basset Retriever do?
Basset Retriever dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Basset Retriever dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Basset Retriever Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Basset Retriever dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Basset Retrievers are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Basset Retriever breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Basset Retriever breed? Most common health risks of Basset Retriever:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationAllergiesHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatEpilepsyEntropionEar InfectionsIntervertebral Disk DiseaseCherry EyeEctropionElbow DysplasiaObesityOsteochondrosis DissecansGlaucomaPanosteitisThrombopathiaHemangiosarcomaOsteosarcomaSubvalvular Aortic Stenosis
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Basset Retriever breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Basset Retriever see the vet?
Rare
The Basset Retriever should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Basset Retriever dogs live? How old can a Basset Retriever be? What is the age limit of the Basset Retriever? How many years can the oldest Basset Retriever live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Basset Retriever?

How long is the lifespan of a Basset Retriever?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Basset Retriever: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.

Basset Retriever Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Basset Retriever have? What is the activity level of the Basset Retriever?
Basset Retriever dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Basset Retriever need? How much exercise do Basset Retriever dogs require per day?

Do Basset Retriever dogs need a lot of exercises?

Basset Retriever dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Basset Retriever breed need?
Basset Retriever dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Basset Retriever Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Basset Retriever need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Basset Retriever breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Basset Retriever? How much food should I feed my Basset Retriever?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Basset Retriever risk for obesity:
High: The Basset Retriever breed has a strong tendency to be overweight. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding. If you want to keep balance, increase the amount and frequency of your daily dog walk and play with the Basset Retriever more often.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Basset Retriever weight regularly.

Basset Retriever Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Basset Retriever have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseSilkyWavyShinyStraight
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Basset Retriever coats?
BlackGrayTan Red White Brown Golden Tricolor Light
Grooming
How to groom the Basset Retriever and how often? How often should I take my Basset Retriever to the groomer?
Average: The Basset Retriever requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Basset Retriever, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Basset Retriever dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Basset Retriever? Do Basset Retriever dogs shed a lot?
Basset Retriever dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Basset Retriever need a bath? How often should you give a Basset Retriever a bath? Can I bathe my Basset Retriever every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Basset Retriever breed hypoallergenic?
No
Basset Retriever dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

High 🔼

The Basset Retriever has a high chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Basset Retriever drool?
The Basset Retriever drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Basset Retriever.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Basset Retriever Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Basset Retriever dogs get along with other pets? Are Basset Retriever dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Basset Retriever dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Basset Retriever temperament with other people:
Basset Retriever dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Basset Retriever dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Basset Retriever temperament with children:
Basset Retriever dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Basset Retriever dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Basset Retriever breed live with a cat?
Basset Retriever dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Basset Retriever good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Basset Retriever dogs get along with other dogs?
Basset Retriever dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Basset Retriever can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Basset Retriever breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Basset Retriever breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Basset Retriever dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Basset Retriever dogs good office canines? Do Basset Retriever dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Basset Retriever is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Basset Retriever dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Basset Retriever temperament with senior people? Are Basset Retriever dogs good for elderly owners?
Basset Retrievers are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Basset Retriever As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Basset Retriever be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Basset Retriever breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Basset Retriever be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Basset Retriever be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Basset Retriever breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Basset Retriever be a sniffer dog?

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Basset Retriever breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Basset Retriever be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Basset Retriever breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Basset Retriever be a boat dog?

Yes

Basset Retriever breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Basset Retriever be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Basset Retriever is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Basset Retriever dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Basset Retriever Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Basset Retriever pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Basset Retriever breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Basset Retriever: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Basset Retriever have in a litter? How many puppies can the Basset Retriever breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Basset Retriever have? How many puppies can a Basset Retriever give birth to?
6-8 puppies

Basset Retriever Recognition

AKC Group
Is Basset Retriever recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Basset Retriever recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Basset Retriever Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Trainability: Basset Retriever dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Basset Retrievers are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Adaptability: Basset Retriever dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Basset Retriever dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Basset Retriever dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Basset Retriever dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Basset Retrievers are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Basset Retriever dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
  • Boat and Sailor Dog: Basset Retriever breed usually likes being on a boat.

    Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

    Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages.

Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Basset Retriever dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Basset Retriever breed in the home.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Basset Retriever drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Stinkiness: The Basset Retriever has a high chance of bad smell.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: High: The Basset Retriever breed has a strong tendency to be overweight.
  • Watchdog Ability: Basset Retriever dogs are not the best watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Basset Retriever dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Basset Retriever is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Basset Retriever dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Basset Retriever is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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