We are blessed to have a very versatile breed like the Basset Hound who can display a wide variety of skills and natural ability which can be useful and advantageous in a large number of dog sports. Explore the many things which you may do with your Basset Hound.
Annual Nationals Specialty Shows, Trials and Tests
The Basset Hound Club of America holds its National specialty shows, trials and tests each fall at a location that rotates around the continental United States. Learn more about this year’s events and about the more than 50 year history of the BHCA Nationals.Future BHCA Nationals
Future BHCA Nationals
| Year | Headquarters Location | Nationals Coordinator | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Lebanon, TN | Celeste Gonzalez | October 9-16, 2026 |
| 2027 | West Bend, WI | Nina Carlie | October 1-8, 2027 |
| 2028 | Inviting bids |
Performance Events
We all know that Bassets are scent hounds, and as such, most have a great natural ability to use their nose. Performance events are designed for your dog to display the skills it has been bred to have as well as give the hound an opportunity to participate in events that it will truly enjoy. While on the surface some events may not initially seem to highlight the Basset’s virtues, they will demonstrate abilities necessary to perform in these skills.
Events for Juniors
American Kennel Club Dog Shows and Basset Hound Specialty shows are intended to evaluate breeding stock. There are several events and programs that are specifically for the Junior. The primary event is Junior Showmanship which is held at Conformation shows. Junior Showmanship is not judged on the conformation of the dog, but on how well the Junior presents their dog. There is a special event known as PeeWee. Additionally, BHCA sponsors a Junior Scholarship program, and there are programs through AKC which are for the Junior Exhibitor in other events.
AKC Family Dog
The AKC Family Dog Program was designed by the American Kennel Club to encourage and promote good manners for and well trained behavior for all dogs. The Basset Hound Club of America includes the entire program here to give you a head start.
Basset Hound owners will welcome and Basset Hounds will benefit from the socialization and training that come from participating in this program. It is also a great starting point to think about if you or your family are interested in doing future performance and companion events. Skills learned here, both by human and dog will be helpful later.
All Basset Hounds will benefit by learning new skills while working with their owners. These dogs will be welcome in their communities, as they will exhibit good manners and behaviors. They will be better pets over the long term.
As you can see, there are many types of activities that you can enjoy with the Basset Hound. Try some of them!
