Basset hounds are incredibly popular dogs known for their long, droopy ears and hilariously short legs. These medium-sized dogs were originally bred in France to hunt small game with their keen sense of smell. They are popular pets around the world, with films and cartoons depicting them as loyal companions.
With a good-natured temperament and recognizable appearance, basset hounds have earned their own national day.
When Is National Basset Hound Day?
Basset hounds have an unofficial national day in January.
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National Basset Hound Day is celebrated annually on January 14th. The day is not officially designated. However, the WoofBookGroup announced it on social media as part of an ongoing series. The series focused on National Dog Breed Day Celebrations and was created to honor American Kennel Club (AKC) registered dog breeds like the beloved basset hound.
Origins of National Basset Hound Day
Basset hounds are commonly described as the “sad clowns of the dog world” with their mournful, wrinkly expressions and classic droopy ears. They are incredibly friendly and affectionate dogs and the 10th registered dog by the AKC in 1885.
These well-known dogs are small with stocky legs, which are due to a genetic condition called osteochondrodysplasia. Not many people know that the basset hound has an excellent sense of smell, only second to the bloodhound.
Despite their reputation for sometimes being stubborn and lazy, basset hounds make devoted family pets. They do well in homes with kids and other friendly dogs and are always eager to please their owners. It is quite fitting that these dogs get their own national day!
4 Fun Ways You Can Celebrate National Basset Hound Day
Below are four fun ways you celebrate National Basset Hound Day on January 14th,2024.
1. Spoil Your Dog
Although you do not necessarily need a special reason to spoil your basset hound, spoiling them extra on National Basset Hound Day is a good way to celebrate. Take this day to spend more time with your basset hound than usual and give them plenty of attention and affection to make them feel special.
2. Take Them for a Walk
Although basset hounds love lounging around, exercise is important for their overall health.
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Most basset hounds love getting out of the house a bit for a short walk and sniffing around the neighborhood. Taking your basset hound out on a walk allows you to spend more time with them and to do an activity they enjoy. Low-impact exercise is incredibly important for basset hounds, otherwise, they may prefer to lounge around all day. Dedicate a few minutes of your day to exercising your basset hound to keep them fit and active.
3. Let Them Sniff Out a Treat
Basset hounds were bred to be slow-hunting dogs that could track hares by following their scents underground. Encouraging your basset hound to stiff out a particular object is a great way to engage them on this special day. Try hiding their favorite treats around the house and watch as they sniff it out and enjoy the reward.
4. Watch Films With Your Basset Hound
After a day full of activity, there’s nothing better than relaxing with your basset hound and watching a film. However, rather than watching any film that pops up, try choosing one with basset hounds.
There are various films and cartoons to choose from, including:
- The Aristocats
- The Fox and The Hound
- Sherlock Hound
- The Great Mouse Detective
In Conclusion
National Basset Hound Day is an unofficial day that celebrates this unique dog breed. Basset hounds have a steady popularity ranking for families with children and other dogs. They make great loyal companions and always impress their owners with their comical behaviors and mournful expressions. You can celebrate National Basset Hound Day on January 14th, 2024, by giving them plenty of cuddles, treats, and attention.
