Meet the 15 Cutest Basset Hounds in the World 

Basset hounds fully embody cuteness in every sense of the word. Their droopy ears, stubby legs, big brown eyes, and long, wrinkly faces make these endearing “hush puppies” irresistibly adorable. Both stubborn and affectionate, basset hounds are lovable and goofy dogs with a relaxed and lackadaisical attitude toward life that will always put you in a good mood. Let’s take a look at some of the cutest basset hounds in the world!

1. Red and White Basset Hounds

These cute basset hound pups are rare, as most basset hounds are tricolored. In fact, these cute basset hounds are often called “rare reds.” Red and white basset hounds usually have red backs, while the rest of their bodies (bellies, chest, and paws) are white. The tips of their tails may be white as well. When they are born, however, red and white basset hounds often have jet-black or dark brown markings that eventually fade into their beautiful red hues. This stunning red coloring comes from a unique blend of black and brown in their coats.

2. Black and White Basset Hounds

These cute pups are also less common. Even when you find a black and white basset hound, they may still have tan or brown coloring around their eyes. Black and white basset hounds typically have black ears and black patches on their backs, while their chests and bellies are white. Some black and white bassets have completely black backs with bold white bellies. Others have unique piebald patterns, with white spots and patches on their pigmented coat. 

3. Lemon and White Basset Hounds

Although lemon and white basset hounds are a standard color accepted by the American Kennel Club (AKC), these dogs are not very common. Lemon and white basset hounds are much lighter in color than your average basset hound, with pale yellow or blonde colored fur. In fact, unlike almost all other types of basset hounds, these lemony beauties have no black hairs at all! We don’t entirely understand how the genetic process in lemon and white basset hounds works. However, we do know that the lack of black hair has something to do with the mysterious recessive gene that gives them a lemon or red coat.

4. Basset Hounds With Black Masks

There is simply nothing cuter than a cute canine bandit with their own little black mask! When you look into their adorable, droopy eyes, you can’t help being captivated by these unique dark markings. The black marks around the dog’s eyes flow seamlessly to their adorable ears without touching their nose or forehead, just like a mask! Black masks are usually seen on basset hounds with fur coats that are lemon, red, brown, and mahogany. However, they can sometimes appear on other color variations as well.

5. Chocolate Basset Hounds

Maybe you’d love an adorable little puppy with rich colors of honey-hued hazel or deep, dark chocolate. Or perhaps you’d prefer a pup with a rich liver-colored coat that’s as sweet as a candy bar. Whatever your preference, the brown variants of chocolate basset hounds are nothing short of stunning. And if you’re lucky enough to come across a brown variation with black markings, prepare to totally fall head over paws in love!

6. Blue Basset Hounds

Yes, you read that right — there really are blue basset hounds. While these are some of the cutest basset hounds you’ll ever see, their name can be a little confusing. Blue basset hounds are not bright blue like the sky. Instead, their stunning coats are a slate gray or dark metallic blue-gray hue. Blue basset hounds also sport adorable white patches on their stunning coats. Some dogs may also have tan markings as well. Blue basset hounds are some of the most beautiful dogs you may ever see! However, this color is the rarest of the breed and is not officially recognized by the AKC as a “standard” basset hound color. 

7. Solid Black Basset Hounds

A solid black basset hound is possibly even rarer than a blue basset hound, one of the boldest and most beautiful dogs around! With their striking jet-black coats, these gorgeous dogs exude an air of mystery and elegance. Some black basset hounds also sport a unique cool gray or crisp white marking strip. This distinct feature sets them apart from the pack and makes them a true standout beauty.

8. Basset Hounds With Ticked Coats

Have you ever seen a basset hound with ticking? Ticking refers to a series of small, colored spots that decorate the lighter areas of a basset hound’s coat. Basset hounds with ticked coats look like they’ve been sprinkled with spots from head to toe, giving them a unique appearance and charm that is impossible to resist! And if you’re lucky, you might even be able to find a basset hound with both a ticked coat and an adorable black mask — what could be cuter than that?

9. Basset Fauve de Bretagne 

Also known as the fawn-colored Brittany basset, the basset fauve de Bretagne has surprisingly long legs for a basset hound and a small, stocky body. These dogs have dense, wiry coats that are sometimes rough to the touch. However, they are absolutely gorgeous dogs with fawn, wheaten, or red-colored hair.

Some puppies also have hints of black in their coat, but that fades away as they age. Other dogs sport striking white patches on their chest or atop their head. However, what really sets basse fauves de Bretagne dogs apart is their gentle demeanor. They’re the perfect companion for families, especially when it comes to spending time with kids. Even when it comes to other pets, they’re always on their best behavior.

10. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

These gentle giants are sturdy pups with surprising stamina. Grand basset griffon Vendéen dogs have a calm and relaxed demeanor. While they can play for hours on end, they also love to snuggle up beside you on the couch. These beautiful basset hounds are easily trained and incredibly eager to please. However, they do have a very strong prey drive — grand bassets are all about the chase, and they will stop at nothing to catch their prey. They were bred to hunt anything from small rabbits to large wild boars, so they need plenty of consistent training and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy.

Grand bassets also have quite the singing voice, and they love to talk with their human companions. They are happy dogs that make great companions, and their shabby yet oh-so-chic hair makes them stand out from other basset hounds.

11. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen 

A bit smaller than their grand basset counterparts, the petite basset griffin Vendéen basset has a playful, tousled appearance that is sure to steal your heart. These dogs have a long and rough double coat that gives them a wild and free-spirited appearance, but the hair on their face and legs can be surprisingly soft. Their adorable facial fur looks like a magnificent beard and mustache combo. But what truly stands on these dogs is their long and luxurious eyelashes!

Petit basset griffon Vendéen dogs are also known for their extroverted personalities, friendly natures, and independent streaks. They are truly a joy to be around and are not afraid to speak their minds. These dogs are very active, lively, and friendly, as can be with both dogs and people.

12. Basset Artésien Normand

Hailing from the rolling hills of Northern France, the basset artésien Normand (sometimes called the Norman artesian basset) shares a common ancestry with the classic basset hound. However, English breeders formed today’s basset hound with a more substantial body. On the other hand, French breeders stayed true to the original lighter-bone design and prioritized hunting skills above all else. Basset Normands have dome-shaped heads, and their bodies are longer than your average basset hound.

These dogs have a keen sense of smell and boundless energy, making them excellent hunting companions and loyal friends. However, they need lots of mental and physical enrichment to keep them from getting bored or developing behavior issues. Basset artésien Normand dogs are also extremely affectionate companions who love to play with adults as well as children. 

13. Bassetoodle (Basset Hound and Poodle Mix)

Some of the cutest basset hounds in the world are basset hound mixed breeds like the bassetoodle. As a crossbreed of a basset hound and a poodle, this adorable pup is a unique blend of intelligence and chill vibes. Bassetoodles have some seriously amazing hunting skills, but they also have an extremely gentle disposition — and a great singing voice!

It’s very important to keep these dogs mentally and physically stimulated, or else they will get bored and frustrated. Even if you give them all the love in the world, your bassetoodle will definitely let you know that they are not happy! Daily walks and mental stimulation are key — things like scent work activities, training, and other enrichments will help to keep their minds sharp and their tails wagging. 

14. Bagle Hound (Basset Hound and Beagle Mix)

One of the most popular basset hound mixed breeds is the bagle hound, a cross between a basset hound and a beagle. Known for their undying loyalty and a nose that could sniff out a treat from miles away, these pups make excellent canine companions. Bagles are medium-sized dogs with short legs and come in a wide variety of colors. Some bagles even take after their beagle parents with rare colors like blue and lemon. However, their droopy ears and soft brown eyes are probably their most recognizable features.

15. Hush Basset (Cocker Spaniel and Basset Hound Mix)

A cross between a cocker spaniel and a basset hound, the hush basset is a very cute and charming dog. With their long, droopy faces and big, soulful eyes, these dogs have innocent expressions that will instantly melt your heart. Their coat can be smooth or wavy, but overall they have a soft and fluffy appearance that makes them irresistible to cuddle with. And fortunately, hush bassets love nothing more than curling up for a cuddle with their beloved humans!

However, since both of their parent breeds come from hunting backgrounds, these dogs need proper training. They can be a bit stubborn if you do not begin training when they are young, but they have such friendly and outgoing personalities that it’s hard not to love them anyway. Their adorable and soft appearance and happy-go-lucky attitude make up for any stubborn tendencies your hush basset may have.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Jessica Nystrom