Archie is one funky lookin' dog!!! We think he is a cross between a Bassett Hound and a Bulldog. He is just like my Ralph the Bassett/Lab ~ bow-legged with outward turned paws. This is one happy fellow! He loves other dogs, will kiss you to death, and isn't a barker. He loves to flop over and try to get you to rub his belly!
Org/Caretaker's Notes: 02/24/08
Well, what can I say about this little clown!? He is a joy to have in our home! He is a lover and loves his belly rubbed and to be told that he is a good boy. He didn't know what to make of the cats but after getting a quick swat in the nose he now knows to stay back! He got along right away with our dog Zeus. He loves to run and play and loves his toys and chew bone that we bought him. He follows us all over the house and is such a good boy and has the greatest personality! He will really make a wonderful addition to any family!
Org/Caretaker's Notes: 02/26/08
Archie is has already learned the rules of the house and is great with the cats! He has really become my newest love and follows me everywhere. He will lay in the bed with me but prefers to sleep in his crate so far and puts himself to bed.
According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, the name Basset Hound comes from the French word "bas" meaning low. Some sources suggest the Basset Hound may have originated from genetic dwarf dogs presented in litters of other types of French hunting hounds, however, we do know that it is a rather old breed, descended directly from the Bloodhound. Shakespeare described the Basset Hound with the following poetic image: "Ears which sweep away the morning due." According to research, the true fame of the Basset Hound began in 1863, when it was presented at the Paris Dog Show. Its popularity spread to England where a lively dispute arose between two factions of breeders: Those who wanted to keep the Basset Hound a hunting dog, and those who wanted to transform it into a companion dog. Situated between these two factions were the American breeders who proceeded to develop an extremely pleasing companion dog without sacrificing any of the qualities of the hunter. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Its natural bent is for hunting both in the den and in the open. It is therefore, used for the hunting of fox, hare, opossum, and pheasant. Bassets can hunt in packs or alone. It has an excellent sense of smell, but its reflexes are a bit slow. Their slow pace is convenient for hunters on foot and keeps game from being scared out of reach. The Basset's nose is almost as outstanding as the Bloodhound's. George Washington may have owned Basset Hounds given to him by Lafayette after the American Revolution.
The Basset Hound is sweet, gentle, devoted, peaceful and naturally well-behaved. They fit into family life well. Their temperament should always be friendly with never an indication of sharpness or viciousness. They are mild but not timid; very affectionate with its master and friendly with children. It is incapable of biting, but it may be a bit stubborn. They like to do tricks for food. It has a deep musical bark. Housebreaking is difficult, but they do well with gentle patient training and positive reinforcement. With proper training, they are obedient, but when they pick up an interesting smell, it's sometimes hard to get their attention. They have a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
Other Pictures of Archie the Bassett Bulldog (click to see larger version):