The Versatile, Loveable Basset Hound

Many Basset Hound enthusiasts consider him to be the most beautiful and unique of all hounds. From his magnificent head adorned with long, silky ears and a furrowed brow and dark, doleful eyes to his long body, short legs, and delightful wrinkles, to the rainbow of amusing expressions, the entire Basset Hound cleverly uses all of his features to win us over.

The Basset Hound remains one of the most easily recognizable and most versatile of all dog breeds. Bassets naturally excel in events such as Conformation (the show ring), Field Trials, Hunt Performance Tests and Tracking. Though independent thinkers, many of them also excel in the Obedience, Rally, and Agility competitions. They often serve as terrific Therapy Dogs. Most of all, they exceed expectations as a most valued and loved family pet.

The Basset Hound Club of America (BHCA) invites you to learn about the Basset Hound through the sections below.

History of the Basset Hound

To be good stewards of our breed, we must first fully understand the past history and the development of the breed known today as the Basset Hound. The BHCA invites you to share in this heritage.

Official Basset Hound Standard and More

The American Kennel Club approved the Official Basset Hound Breed Standard on January 14, 1964. It is the “blueprint” of our breed and guides responsible breeders in their goal to produce healthy, structurally sound, and happy dogs.

Health & Research

The BHCA Health and Research Committee provides up-to-date information on health concerns and best-care practices for the Basset Hound to BHCA members, Basset Hound Owners and to prospective Basset Buyers. It also hopes to help reduce the risk of health issues by encouraging careful breeding practices.

Judges Education

The BHCA Judges Education Committee provides a great selection of educational opportunities and tools for aspiring AKC Judges, including The Illustrated Standard of the Basset Hound, The Pocket Guide to the Basset Hound, a narrated presentation on the Basset, and live seminars presented at events throughout the United States.

Basset Hound University also has a Judges Education School. These materials are also extremely important for Basset Hound exhibitors and breeders. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the Basset Hound.

Breeder/Member Education

Basset Hound breeders and owners are provided a variety of opportunities to learn about the breed through the efforts of the BHCA Breeder/Member Education Committee. The committee hosts educational events at the BHCA National Specialty each year on topics of interest to our members and breeders. Visit this section of our site to find information Basset Hound University courses of interest for both owners and breeders of the Basset Hound.

For owners, there is the Basset Hound Owners Guide, the Coloring and Activities Book, as well as courses on Tracking, Scent & the Scenting Dog, Hunting Performance Test and Obedience in the Activities School. Breeders will find courses such as Breed Standard & Terminology, Survey of Basset Hound Literature and the History of the Basset Hound.

Public Education

The BHCA Public Education committee works to provide educational materials to the public who may have questions regarding the Basset Hound. The committee is very involved in putting on “Meet the Breeds” events around the country to introduce the public on our unique breed. They will answer questions about finding a Basset Hound, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization, and the various events in which you may participate with your Basset. They can also refer you to a local Basset Hound Club that belongs to the Basset Hound Club of America.

Contact the Public Education Coordinator: oldyork2002@aol.com

Basset Hound Owners' Toolbox

This section will include helpful tips and information for Basset Hound owners. Topics will range widely and come from a number of different sources.