Basset Hound Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a laid-back, deeply scent-driven hound whose easygoing charm comes with a stubborn streak that surprises many first-time owners. Bred to trail rabbits with their nose to the ground, Bassets follow interesting smells single-mindedly, so a securely fenced yard and a leash are non-negotiable, and recall training takes real patience. They are famously affectionate, tolerant, and good with children and other dogs, and their exercise needs are modest, but they can be loud, prone to bay and howl, and inclined to gain weight. Long ears, facial folds, and drool need routine care, and their long back calls for weight management to protect the spine.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsLower than most
Energy levelLower than most
TrainabilityLower than most
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingHigher than most
BarkingHigher than most
Apartment fitHigher than most
Good with childrenDefining trait
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersTypical
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Where this breed shines
- Affectionate, tolerant, and typically great with kids and other dogs
- Relaxed indoor temperament with modest exercise needs
- Even-tempered and rarely aggressive
Things to consider
- Strong scent drive and stubbornness make off-leash recall unreliable
- Prone to baying and howling that neighbors may notice
- Long back and weight-gain risk require careful diet and joint care
History
The Basset Hound was developed in France and Belgium from scenthound stock, its short legs bred to keep the nose close to the ground while trailing rabbits and hares at a pace hunters could follow on foot. The breed's remarkable nose is often ranked second only to the Bloodhound's. It belongs to the AKC Hound Group.
Temperament
Bassets are mild, patient, and companionable, generally getting along well with children and other animals. Driven by scent and blessed with a stubborn streak, they can be single-minded on a trail and selectively deaf to commands.
Questions to ask a Basset Hound breeder
- Have both parents been DNA-tested for Basset Hound hereditary thrombopathia?
- Have the parents' eyes been screened for glaucoma via gonioscopy and exam?
- What do you do to manage weight and back health in your line?
Health considerations to discuss
Glaucoma. Educational only, not diagnostic; an eye condition screened through ophthalmologist exams and gonioscopy (OFA eye certification).
Basset Hound hereditary thrombopathia. Educational only; an inherited platelet disorder with a DNA test available for breeding dogs.
Intervertebral disc disease. Educational only; the long back raises spinal risk, so ask about weight management and joint care.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Basset Hound breed overview · Basset Hound Club of America (AKC parent club) · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Basset Hound litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Basset Hound puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Basset Hound listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Basset Hound puppies cost?
Listed puppies currently range from $750 to $2,500. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Basset Hound breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.