BASSET HOUND

Basset hound. breed of dog developed centuries ago in France and long maintained, chiefly in France and Belgium, as a hunting dog of the aristocracy. Originally used to trail hares, rabbits, and deer, it has also been used in hunting birds, foxes, and other game. It is characterized as a slow, deliberate hunter, with a deep voice and a "nose" second in keenness only to that of the bloodhound. Short-legged and heavy-boned, the basset hound has long, pendulous ears and a short coat in any combination of black, tan, and white. It stands 30 to 38 cm (12 to 15 inches) and weighs 18 to 27 kg (40 to 60 pounds). The breed has several varieties, one of the most popular being the sad-eyed Le Couteulx. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Hounds for further information.