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Basset Hounds
Origins First registered with the American Kennel Club in 1885, The forebear to the Basset Hound is thought to have been developed by St. Hubert, the patron Saint of hunting. being an avid huntsman St. Hubert set out to produce a new strain of hound. One that would possess certain qualities not available in the breed of the time.. The result was the Basset Hound. (bas meaning low set in French) Able to penetrate deep ground cover to remain on the scent of a rabbit, fox or raccoon. Why the floppy skin If he does happen to tangle with a cornered animal his loose skin around his head helps to protect him. The animal would be hard pressed to get a hold of some actual meat when the folds of skin slide out of the way. Not that Basset's are in any way ferocious. They're more apt to hurt your ears with their resounding howl that to expend any energy to cause any physical harm. Although they do make a ruckus when company comes. Most times I find they are just Barking aimlessly. As with any family our dogs are part of the gang. And I'm glad you came by to see what they're about. Short and Sweet The Basset Hound with it's short legs is able to stay on a scent for long periods of time without the strain of lowering his head that other taller dogs might experience. His nose is said to be second only to the Blood Hound in his ability to follow a scent trail. His wonderful long velvet ears assist his nose by fanning and kicking up the scent from the dirt, much like a connoisseur will wave his hand over a fine glass of wine to stir up the bouquet. In order to make this short dog visible to his master while on the hunt. The Basset will hold his tail straight up in the air (gayly), and if you've ever noticed most Basset Hounds have a white tip on their tails so as to be seen in the tall grass. It's really quite comical to watch one of these dogs in the tall grass. Just the tip of his tail going this way, then that way chasing that " Waskaly Wabbit ". His feet are are akin to shovels. When he finally finds his quarry, he's apt to excavate the resident hole with these large spades he has for feet.
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Our Happy Family
Chelsea Basset Hound AKA Wingnut, Chelsinator Journey Americal Short Hair AKA Fatso Cat Whisper American Short Hair AKA Miss Kitty Puff Maine Coon Mix AKA Puffalump Shadow Siamese/American Short Hair AKA Stick Kitty Yortious Sulcata Tortious AKA the Hay Baler Newman Maine Coon AKA the Big Cat Rest in Peace Puppy Zack Malloy Chubber Wicker |