Basset Hound

Score for Seniors: 85%
Activity Level: Short daily walks ok
Weight: 40-65 Pounds

basset hound in park with middle-age woman

With long ears and adorably droopy faces, Basset Hounds are irresistibly charming. But are they the best dogs for seniors and retirees?

Are Basset Hounds good for seniors?


Seniors have reported to absolutely adore Basset Hounds for their sweet nature and friendly personality. Here are the things about Basset Hounds that work in favor of seniors and old couples.

Basset Hounds are incredibly friendly

Seniors love dogs that are friendly and easygoing. Bassets are among the friendliest dogs who thrive in company. Their happy personality and pleasant disposition make them great around other pets and kids. They are people-oriented little guys who won’t be too happy if you leave them alone for long periods. That’s when separation anxiety kicks in and they exhibit destructive behaviors. You could say they’re quite clingy but that shouldn’t bother seniors and retirees since they are likely to spend most of their time at home right with their little fur buddy.

Basset Hounds adapt well to apartment living

Seniors would be happy to know that Bassets make wonderful apartment dogs. Thanks to their small size, they don’t need a huge park or a yard to run around in. They do fairly well in a small apartment. While they will be happy laying on the couch with you, you should provide them moderate exercise opportunities to prevent them from getting overweight. Short daily walks around the block will work great.

Basset Hounds are sociable

Basset Hounds are very sociable and good around people. Although they might bark to announce visitors, they are never aggressive and soon would be found wagging their tail to greet. This is good news for seniors who live in assisted living facilities or apartment housing.

What are the downsides for seniors?

Hard to train

Due to their stubborn streak, Bassets might be a little hard to train. They get easily distracted when their powerful nose catches an intriguing scent and become totally oblivious to your commands. The reason behind this is the fact that they were bred to hunt without needing their owner’s supervision. However, reward-based training from a young age and teaching him commands in a quiet setting can go a long way.

Heavy shedding

Don’t let a Basset’s short coat fool you. Despite being short and smooth, their coat sheds a lot and needs regular grooming to keep them healthy and happy. You should be gently brushing your Basset once a week with a soft brush. Depending on their lifestyle and activity levels, Bassets can be bathed once a week but it’s best if it’s done once a month so their skin doesn’t get overly dry.

Drooling and slobbering

Basset Hounds are also prone to drooling and slobbering. They drool a lot (and all the time). Especially after eating and drinking water. This happens because they produce quite a large amount of saliva to soften and digest the food. Mostly, much more than necessary. The excess builds up in the jowls and loose skin around the mouth causing them to drool. If you don’t mind the wet spots on your clothes, couch, and floor, a Basset shouldn’t be a problem for you.

Bassets could make great dogs for seniors if they’re given the right training from the get-go.

Disclaimer: This website's content is not a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian for healthcare decisions. Read More.