The recorded history of the Basset Hound dates all the way back to a 16th century French text about badger hunting. The Basset Hound was developed by the friars of the French Abbey of St. Hubert, who wanted to breed a dog that was similar to the Bloodhound but smaller and slower moving, allowing humans to follow it on foot. The term "Basset" is derivative from the French bas, meaning "low" or "dwarf." At the beginning of the 18th century, these dogs were extremely popular in France. Legend has it that Lafayette gave a pair of Basset Hounds to George Washington, making him the first man to introduce the breed to North America.

The Basset Hound was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1882, and the English Basset Hound Club was formed in 1884. The American Kennel Club followed suit in 1885, accepting the Basset Hound as a breed. The Basset Hound Club of America was founded in 1935, and breed standard was created in 1964. In the US today, these dogs are primarily used for rabbit hunting, but will hunt and track just about anything. The breed?s ubiquitous appearances in books, magazines, movies and even as the mascot for Hush Puppies footwear is a tribute to their continued popularity and admiration.

History courtesy BreedRetriever.com