Basset Hound: A Massive Force in Dog Form

A Surprising Weight for a Basset Hound

If you've ever looked at certain dog breeds and wondered how much weight they're capable of carrying around, Dr. Lindsay Butzer, DVM, has your back! In a recent post, the vet introduced a sweet Basset Hound named Bentley who, at first glance, may look like any other, but there's a massive catch—and you won't believe what this big boy weighs!

I didn't have Bentley coming in at a whopping 80 pounds as my guess, so I'd say he wears it well! We're all familiar with a typical Basset Hound stature, which is low slung, long, and droopy, but I didn't think it was possible for one of these cute pups to tip the scales at this level.

There's no weight-shaming here. I think Bentley is one handsome gent, but there's another huge Hound competing for the "biggest" prize, and this pooch will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about the breed and their size!

The Viral Video That Shook the Dog World

The viral video shared by @bensonbassetfarm is a few months old, but it's the perfect comparison video to show how XL these sweet and gentle dogs can grow to be. They don't seem to notice they're any larger than the smallest pups in the house!

How Much Do Basset Hounds Usually Weigh?

Dr. Butzer didn't specify whether Bentley is an American Basset Hound or the European version (and the same goes for Benson), but going by weight alone, I'd place my bets on the latter. Here are the key differences between the two:

• European Hounds are larger and heavier, even reaching 90 pounds or more, while American Bassets settle in around 40 to 65 pounds at most, but it can vary.
• They're also more wrinkly and athletic than the American breed.
• European pups are the typical choice for show, because of their droopier eyes, heavier bone structure, and longer ears.

Basset Hounds as a whole stand around 15 inches at the shoulder, and males might be a touch taller with more meat on their bones! One look at Bentley and Benson, and I think they both deserve to win the prize for "Absolute Units of the Year!"

The Big Picture: Understanding Basset Hound Sizes

While many people are familiar with the classic image of a Basset Hound—low to the ground, with long ears and a friendly face—not everyone knows that these dogs can come in a range of sizes. The distinction between American and European Basset Hounds is important when it comes to understanding their potential weight and physical characteristics.

The European variety is known for being more robust and having a stronger build. This can lead to them weighing significantly more than their American counterparts. However, it's essential to note that both types of Basset Hounds are beloved for their gentle nature and affectionate personalities.

Why Size Matters

Understanding the size of a Basset Hound is not just about aesthetics; it can also impact their health and care requirements. Larger dogs may need more space, a different diet, and regular exercise to maintain their well-being. It's crucial for potential owners to consider these factors before bringing a Basset Hound into their home.

In addition, the size of a Basset Hound can affect their suitability for certain activities. While smaller Bassets may be more agile, larger ones might excel in other areas, such as companionship or showing.

Final Thoughts

Bentley and Benson are excellent examples of how Basset Hounds can vary in size and appearance. Their impressive weights highlight the diversity within the breed and remind us that every dog is unique. Whether they're small or large, Basset Hounds bring joy and love to their families, making them wonderful companions regardless of their size.