Description: A scenthound, the Basset Hound possesses those characteristics which equip it to follow a trail over difficult terrain. It is a short-legged dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed of dog. Its movement is deliberate and not at all clumsy. Other striking breed characteristics include the long, low-set velvety ears; the loose elastic skin which is abundant over the whole of the dog, and finally, the soft, sad, slightly sunken dark eyes which contribute to the typical Basset Hound expression. In temperament it is mild, never sharp or timid, and this makes it an ideal companion dog.