Yes, Basset Hounds make excellent family dogs due to their friendly, gentle, and affectionate nature. They have a calm and laid-back temperament, making them well-suited for households with children and other pets. Their sociable and loyal personality helps them bond closely with family members.
The most common serious health threat to Basset Hounds is gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat or gastric torsion, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. They are also prone to health issues such as ear and skin infections, joint problems including elbow dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease, and eye conditions like glaucoma.
Basset Hounds are considered fairly low-maintenance dogs requiring moderate exercise to prevent obesity and regular grooming primarily focused on bathing and cleaning their long, floppy ears to avoid infections. Their training can be a bit challenging due to stubbornness but is manageable with positive reinforcement.
Basset Hounds are known for their loud and distinctive bark and howl, often described as mournful or deep. They can be quite vocal, especially when alerting their owners or communicating needs, and may 'talk' or howl to get attention, such as during mealtimes.