How Much Does a Basset Hound Cost? (2024 Updated)

If you are thinking about adding a Basset Hound puppy to your family, one of the first things you may be wondering about is the Basset Hound price. 

There are various expenses associated with owning a Basset Hound puppy that you need to consider before making a purchase.

Basset Hounds may not be considered small dogs but are known for their personality and distinctive appearance. Even as scent hounds and hunting dogs, this breed loves children and typically does well with other animals.

In this Basset Hound price guide, you will be informed about the Basset Hounds’ cost range, including the Basset Hound puppy price, monthly and annual expenses, and more!

How Much Does a Basset Hound Puppy Cost?

Basset Hound puppy prices fall anywhere between $800 and $1,500. However, a top-quality Basset Hound puppy costs as high as $2,000 and above from reputable breeders, depending on several factors such as breeder location, bloodline, and demand.

One of the primary factors is the location of the dog breeder. Dog breeders in different areas may charge different prices for their pet-quality Basset Hound puppies.

For example, the Basset Hound price may differ based on whether the prospective pet owner’s location is in a rural or an urban area, with prices tending to be higher in urban areas due to increased demand. 

Further, there is also usually a price difference between European and American Basset Hounds since the former is harder to find in the United States.

Another factor that can impact the Basset Hound price is its gender and bloodline. Female puppies from champion bloodlines or show-quality Basset Hound puppies may cost more than others of the same breed without pedigrees.

A colleague of mine who is fond of joining dog shows has recently purchased a Basset Hound that he is building up for conformation. It cost him about $4,000, but it came with full registration, a 2-year health guarantee, and several certificates of DNA tests confirming that the puppy is free from congenital issues.

That puppy is now a two-year-old dog and has won in multiple shows. It also has not encountered any significant health issues. This goes to show the importance and the peace of mind that comes along with purchasing from a reputable breeder.

Moreover, while the initial purchase price is lower for Basset mixes, it’s important to note that the initial cost is just a small part of the total expenses associated with Basset Hound pet ownership.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Basset Hound From a Shelter?

The cost of adoption can vary depending on the shelter, but it typically costs from $100 to $300, depending on the shelter and the dog’s age.

Some animal shelters may also require additional fees from the prospective owners for things like microchipping, vaccinations, AKC registration, or spaying/neutering.

Ultimately, adopting a Basset Hound is less expensive than purchasing from a reputable breeder and an opportunity to save a rescue dog’s life.

First-Time Expenses of Basset Hounds Ownership

While the purchase price of a pet quality Basset Hound puppy or adoption fee for a shelter dog is a significant expense, it is only the beginning of the costs that you should take into account.

Knowing all the expenses with Basset Hound ownership and being financially prepared for the cost to provide continuous care for your family pets.

The following list is all the necessary things that your Basset Hound puppy will need:

• Food and Treats: When it comes to food and treats, it’s important to choose high-quality options to meet their nutritional needs. These typically cost between $70 and $110.
• Bowls: Basset Hounds are known for their deep chests and long ears, so it’s important to choose water and food bowls that are shallow and wide to prevent them from pushing food out of the bowl or getting their ears wet. You will also want to consider the material of the bowls, as some dogs can be sensitive to certain metals or plastics. With these considerations, bowls would typically cost between $10 and $30.
• Toys: There are plenty of types of toys for dogs, especially for Basset dogs that love to chew. There are chew toys and plushies that usually cost between $30 and $60. 
• Beds: As a breed known for its long bodies and short legs, Basset Hounds require a bed that offers plenty of support and cushioning to suit your dog’s size. The beds should also be durable enough to withstand their chewing habits and frequent use, costing you between $40 and $200.
• Collars and Leash: Because of their love for sniffing and exploring, Basset Hounds require a leash that allows them freedom of movement while ensuring they remain under control. A good quality collar and leash would cost you between $15 and $50.
• Crates and Carriers: Whether you’re traveling with your dog or need a safe and secure place for them to rest at home, crates and carriers are essential for Basset Hound owners. These would cost you $50 and $370.
• Grooming Essentials: As a dog breed known for their long and floppy ears, droopy eyes, and thick, smooth coat, Basset Hounds shed moderately, requiring regular grooming to keep them clean, healthy, and comfortable. A service that includes various treatments, such as nail trimming and hair trimming, may cost between $50 and $160.
• Initial Vet Visits: Your new pet must visit a licensed veterinarian for checkups, vaccinations, and any necessary treatment for a Basset Hound. Basset Hounds are prone to certain health issues, including obesity, hip dysplasia, and ear infections. Regular check-ups are essential for maintaining a healthy Basset Hound, with costs ranging between $100 and $500.
• Initial Vaccine Shots: As a new dog owner, one of the initial pet costs to consider is getting up-to-date vaccines such as the rabies vaccine. Vaccines are essential to your pet’s healthcare routine and help protect them from a range of potentially life-threatening illnesses. These shots typically cost between $50 and $200.
• Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: Your Basset Hound can experience various health issues due to parasites such as Lyme disease. Regular deworming and preventive medication can help keep your Basset Hound puppies healthy and free from these pesky pests. These would typically cost you between $40 and $300.
• Neutering or Spaying: Neutering or spaying can prevent the birth of unwanted Basset Hound puppies and reduce the risk of certain cancers and behavioral problems. These would cost you between $50 and $500.
• Microchipping: Microchipping is a common practice among some Basset Hound rescues and breeders, as they implant the microchip in their Basset Hound puppies before they are adopted. However, if the breeder you got your Basset Hound from did not microchip them, you would need to factor in an additional cost of $40 to $60 for this service.
• Dog License: This is a legal requirement for Basset Hound owners in many areas. The average cost of the license can vary depending on the location, but it typically ranges from $10 to $20. In addition to being a legal requirement, it can also help ensure that your Basset Hound can be quickly identified and returned to you if they are lost. 
• Other Essentials: There are several items that you may need for your family pet. These include poop bags, odor removers, potty pods, etc. Other essentials typically cost between $20 and $50.

Here is the breakdown of the initial costs associated with having a Basset Hound puppy:

If you have owned other pets before, you may already own some of the items listed above in your household. As a result, you can save some money.

Watch this video if you want to learn more about the Basset Hound dog breed and what it’s like to own a Basset puppy:

Annual Cost of Owning a Basset Hound

Once you have covered the initial expenses of your Basset Hound needs, it’s important to consider the ongoing costs of ownership.

These include annual expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and more. Some pet owners with a Basset Hound spend an average of between $1,875 and $4,450 annually.

Here is a brief overview of the yearly costs associated with owning a Basset Hound:

Pet insurance is an optional expense that can provide owners peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected medical costs.

With a monthly premium ranging from $500 to $900, pet insurance can cover routine care, accidents, illnesses, and emergency care for your Basset Hound.

Pet owners must also be prepared to budget for routine veterinary care expenses between $200 and $600. Proper preventive care can reduce the chance of serious health issues and save on long-term veterinary costs.

Other Potential Expenses to Consider

In addition to the initial expenses, there are also several potential ongoing costs as your Basset Hound is fully grown.

While some of these expenses may be optional, they can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and your overall experience as an owner.

Here are some potential expenses to consider for Basset Hound puppies:

• Training: Basset Hounds are known for their stubbornness and independent nature, which can make training a challenge. Professional obedience private training can be a worthwhile investment to ensure that your Basset Hound is well-behaved and responds to commands. Training costs can vary depending on the program and trainer but average around $100 to $500.
• Boarding or Pet Sitting: If you plan on traveling without your Basset Hound, you will need to arrange for care while you are away. This can involve boarding your dog at a kennel or hiring a pet sitter to care for your dog in your home. The average price for these services ranges from $25 to $50.
• Kennel Club Registration: The American Kennel Club is the official organization for registering pure dog breeds. AKC registration can give you access to certain benefits, such as the ability to enter dog shoes and participate in Kennel Club events. AKC registration will cost you between $90 and $150.
• Dog Walkers: As mentioned earlier, Basset Hounds are prone to health issues, so moderate exercise is needed. They need regular walks and playtime to maintain their physical and mental health. If you have a busy schedule, hiring a dog walker can help ensure that your dog gets the exercise and attention they need. The cost for this service ranges between $15 and $30.
• Medical Emergencies: Just like humans, pets can experience unexpected medical emergencies. It’s important to have a plan in place for these situations, which may involve emergency vet care or surgery. Put aside a budget of around $800 to $1,500.
• Health Certificate: A health certificate is a document that verifies your pet’s health and can be required when traveling or crossing state lines and typically cost between $40 and $120 per certificate.

Many of these expenses are necessary to ensure that you have a stable and healthy Basset Hound.

By budgeting for these potential expenses, you can ensure that you are prepared for any situation that may arise as one of the Basset Hound owners.

Best Places to Find Basset Hound Puppies for Sale and Adoption

There are several places to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. You can start with the Basset Hound Club of America and the American Kennel Club’s website. 

These organizations are dedicated to promoting the breed and maintaining high standards for breeding dogs.

It is crucial to avoid purchasing from puppy mills, pet stores, and those who are selling puppies from their home. There’s a high chance that the parents of these pups are unhealthy.

Here are some of the most reputable Basset Hound breeders:

• American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is a referral website that contains trustworthy breeders with AKC-registered litters. They conduct regular health screenings and kennel inspections to ensure the well-being of the puppies under the care of each breeder.
• Spectrum Basset Hound – Spectrum Basset Hounds is a member of Pilgrim Basset Hound Club, Basset Hound Club of America (BCHA), and Wachusett Kennel Club (WKC) and follows its code of ethics.
• Charlie Rose & Co Basset Hounds – Charlie Rose & Co Basset Hounds have been breeding Basset Hounds for 15 years. They specialize in breeding shows and pet-quality Basset Hound puppies.

Below are rescues that offer Basset Hounds for adoption if you prefer to adopt instead of shop for one:

• Guardian Angel Basset Rescue – Guardian Angel Basset Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating Basset Hounds in need of new homes.
• Basset Hound Rescue of Southern California – Basset Hound Rescue of Southern California is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming Basset Hounds.
• Basset Rescue Old Dominion – Basset Rescue Dominion has been saving Basset Hounds since 1996. The organization provides foster care to these dogs until they can find their forever homes.

If you are not successful in finding the rescues above, you can join Basset Hound rescues communities and groups on Facebook or Reddit to find more resources and recommendations from other pet lovers.

Furthermore, veterinarians and pet enthusiasts in your locality can provide you with valuable tips and advice in your quest to adopt a Basset Hound.

Money-Saving Tips for Basset Hound Owners

Having a Basset Hound can be a fulfilling experience, but it can also come with its own set of expenses. 

Aside from the monthly and annual expenses, there are also miscellaneous costs when taking care of a Basset Hound puppy until its adult dog years.

However, there are many ways to save money as a dog owner. Here are several tips to save money when it comes to Basset Hound pet ownership:

• Buy in bulk: Buying your Basset Hound’s food, treats, and other supplies in bulk can save you a lot of money in the long run. Look for deals at pet supply stores and online retailers, and stock up on essentials when prices are low.
• DIY grooming: Regular grooming is important for your Basset Hound’s health and appearance. Taking them to pet salons can be costly. Basset Hounds are known for their short coat, which means you can brush and groom them if needed.
• Take preventative measures: Regular vet check-ups and preventative measures like vaccination, heartworm test, and flea and tick prevention can help you avoid costly vet bills down the line. These measures do come with a cost, and they are typically much cheaper than treating an illness or infection.
• Make dog toys: Instead of buying expensive dog toys, consider making your own. You can use items around the house, like old t-shirts or socks, to create fun toys for your Basset Hound to play with. Not only will this save you money, but it can also be a fun bonding activity with your pet.

As a Basset Hound owner, incorporating these tips into your Basset’s care routine, you can save money while still providing your Basset Hound with the care and attention they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Basset Hound a Rare Breed?

Basset Hounds are not considered a rare breed. They are quite popular and recognized by various kennel clubs worldwide. They are recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC).

Also recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and ranked the Basset Hounds as the 34th most popular breed out of 197 breeds.

Despite their popularity, Basset Hounds still need responsible, caring practices. As a potential owner, it’s important to do your research and find reputable breeders or rescues that prioritize the well-being of their dogs.

How Long Do Bassets Live?

On average, Basset Hounds have a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. However, it’s not uncommon for them to live up to 14 years or more with proper care and attention.

It’s worth noting that larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds, but Basset Hounds are generally considered healthy and hardy.

As with any dog, several factors can affect a Basset Hound’s lifespan. Genetics, diet, exercise, and access to the veterinary clinic are all important considerations.

Do Basset Hounds Bark a Lot?

Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive bark, which is deep and loud. They are a vocal breed and tend to bark quite a bit, especially if they are not properly trained or socialized.

Barking can be a way for Bassets to communicate with their owners and express their emotions, such as excitement, fear, or frustration.

It is worth noting that every dog is different, and some Bassets may bark more or less than other dogs.

If excessive barking is a problem, it may be helpful to consult with a professional trainer or animal behaviorist for advice on how to address the issue.

Final Thoughts

Basset Hounds are a lovable and charming breed that makes the right dog for the right owner. With their unique features, friendly personalities, and adorable charm, it’s no wonder why they’re a beloved breed.

These dogs are the perfect pet for you if you know their lifestyle and personalities.

With some careful planning and budgeting, you can ensure that your Basset Hound has a happy and healthy life without breaking the bank.

After all, when it comes to these lovable and loyal pups, the investment is well worth it. If you have experience with this dog breed, please share it in the comments below.