Fact Sheet Dog Breed Basset Hound

More pictures can be found here (click on picture):

 3. Problems/syndromes that may occur in the breed

Note: Of several problems and diseases that are common in the Basset Hound, only the most important of the known breed-typical defects and dispositions* for health disorders are listed here:

* (please also refer to the existing information sheets on individual defects such as ectropion, entropion and ears in particular)

Chondrodystrophy and chondrodysplasia and as a consequence:

• Elbow dysplasia (radius curvus, carpus valgus, short ulna syndrome)
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
• Eye diseases (ectropion, entropion, primary glaucoma, cherry eye, distichiasis, persistent pupillary membrane, cataract)
• Ear diseases (otitis, ear injuries)
• Excessive wrinkling with skin diseases (malassezia dermatitis, primary seborrhoea)
• Gastric dilatation and volvulus
• Thrombopathy
• Severe combined immunodeficiency

4. Other problems that may occur frequently

In addition to the breed-typical defects listed under point 3, the veterinary literature contains information on the occurrence of the following problems, which will not be discussed further below, as no definitive conclusions can yet be drawn from the known prevalences and breeders, breeding clubs and associations do not state any prevalences that have been determined under scientific conditions. However, the following statement applies to these cases: „The absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence“.

• Dystocia 
• Lafora disease
• Infection with Mycobacterium avium complex 
• Inguinal hernia
• Panostitis 
• Patellar luxation
• Secondary lens luxation 
• Tumour diseases 
• Urolithiasis (cystine stones)
• Cervical spondylomyelopathy, Wobbler syndrome 

5. Symptoms and pathological value of the typical defects mentioned above: Significance/impact on the physical/psychological well-being of the defect in the individual animal and classification in burden category*

*The individual breeding-related defects are assigned to different burden categories (BC) depending on their severity. The overall burden category is based on the most severe defect found in the individual animal. The BC system as a further development based on the Swiss model is still being developed and is only intended as a guide. For this reason, the BC values used here should be regarded as provisional. This is primarily due to the fact that the German Animal Welfare Act does not contain a justiciable basis for classification into burden categories. In contrast to Switzerland, the legal standards in Germany do not quantify pain, suffering or harm or assess their quality, but take them into account if they affect the animal more than insignificantly.
However, the burden categories can also be used to assess suitability for breeding and showing.

The burden that can be caused by defective breeding traits are divided into 4 categories (Art. 3 TSchZV, Switzerland). The most burdenful trait or symptom is decisive for the assignment of an animal to a burden category (Art. 4 TSchZV, Switzerland).

Category 0 (no burden): These animals may be used for breeding.

Category 1 (mild burden): Mild burden is present if a burdenful expression of characteristics and symptoms in pets and farm animals can be compensated for by appropriate care, husbandry or feeding, without interventions on the animal and without regular medical care measures.

Category 2 (medium burden): These animals may only be used for breeding if the breeding objective is for the offspring to be less burdened than the parents.

Category 3 (severe burden): These animals may not be used for breeding.

The Basset Hound belongs to the chondrodystrophic breeds and is characterised by short legs and low body height due to this developmental disorder. Chondrodystrophy is characterised by dysplastic, shortened tubular bones and premature degeneration and calcification of the intervertebral discs. The development of chondrodystrophy is an inevitable result of breeding in accordance with the current breed standard and is associated with the characteristics „Long and deep throughout length“ and „forelegs short“ and „upper forearm inclined slightly inwards“. Smolders et al. (2013) have summarised the pathological changes, some of which can already be detected in newborn dogs of chondrodystrophic breeds. In their overview, they also discuss the increased risk of intervertebral disc disease due to chondrodysplasia in these breeds. Radiographically, the short and broad shape, especially of the large tubular bones, is striking. Basset Hounds have curved long bones, which means that the chest and pelvic limbs are shortened and curved. In addition, the metaphyses of the bones are broad and the epiphyses are irregular. 

The Swedish animal insurance company AGRIA states in its Breed Report (2016-2021) that the Basset Hound has a significantly increased relative risk (RR) for the development of the following locomotor symptoms in the following body regions compared to the average of all insured breeds: Skeletal: RR approx. 4-fold, Spinal: RR 1.5-fold, Elbow: RR 2-fold increased.

The following diseases are associated with chondrodystrophic skeletal changes:

Elbow dysplasia (radius curvus, carpus valgus, short ulna syndrome)

Physical:
Elbow dysplasia is common in Basset Hounds and appears to be associated with short ulna syndrome (often associated with radius curvus, carpus valgus), which is genetically linked to chondrodystrophic dogs selectively bred for short legs, e.g. Dachshunds, Bassets, Welsh Corgis. The genetic defects of the fibroblast growth factor FGF4a lead to limb deformities and subsequently often to incongruent elbow joint surfaces. This is a progressive skeletal disease that can include osteoarthrotic changes, a fragmented medial coronoid process, osteochondrosis dissecans of the trochlea humeri and an isolated anconeal process. The changes occur within the first few weeks of life and lead to poor articulation of the elbow joint as the disease progresses. Elbow dysplasia can lead to severe lameness. In addition, affected dogs experience pain during movement and an altered posture of the affected limb. Surgical correction of the deformity may already be necessary in growing animals.

Psychological:
Affected dogs suffer from the pain and the restriction of motor skills with the associated behavioural restrictions.

Burden category: 2-3, depending on the degree of severity

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Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

Physical:
Dogs affected by chondrodystrophy are more frequently affected by intervertebral disc disease than dogs of non-chondrodystrophic breeds. Dogs with relatively long backs and short stature show an increased risk of herniated discs. Compared to other chondrodystrophic breeds, the Basset Hound is slightly larger and therefore possibly less affected. In their review, Smolders et al (2013) describe the histopathological and biochemical changes in disc degeneration. The thoracolumbar region in particular is more frequently affected. Compared to other breeds, intervertebral disc disease in Basset Hounds only occurs at an older age, on average 7.3 years. This was also confirmed by a retrospective study from 2024, in which the average age of onset was 7.3 years. The clinical presentation is usually very acute. Animals show painfulness and progressive myelopathy. A review summarises the clinical symptoms according to localisation. They range from mild discomfort without neurological deficits to paralyses of the affected limbs and loss of pain sensation. However, the occurrence of paraplegia without nociception appears to be rarer in basset hounds, e.g. compared to dachshunds.

Psychological:
Herniated discs are often associated with spinal cord injuries, which can have a negative impact on quality of life. Disc disease can also be associated with severe pain for the animals. Chronic patients, especially those with paraplegia, require time-consuming and costly care and attention from pet owners due to their enormous limitations (loss of mobility as well as urinary and/or faecal incontinence). The animals suffer as a result of these frequently necessary measures and their restricted mobility.

Burden category: 3

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Eye diseases 

Physical:
Ectropion and entropion: (see also leaflet Dog eyes entropion – and leaflet Dog eyes ectropion)

Ectropion, entropion, distichiasis, persistent pupillary membrane and cataracts occur more frequently in Basset Hounds. In addition, the diamond eye, a special form of macroblepharon and eversion of the nictitating membrane have been described in the Basset Hound. Due to the breeding-related eye shape (diamond eyes), the conjunctiva is constantly in contact with the environment, which favours conjunctivitis. 

Glaucoma
The Genetics Committee of the American College of Veterinary Opthalmologists (ACVO) points to a higher incidence of glaucoma in Basset Hounds. In an analysis of the results of eye examinations carried out in North America over a period of 38 years, the Basset Hound was one of the breeds most frequently affected by primary glaucoma, and was often the most affected breed. The prevalence was up to 5.44% and increases with age. Basset Hounds were first presented in this study at an average age of 6.33 years. Another study with a smaller number of animals found a proportion of 11.36% Basset Hounds among dogs of different breeds presented with primary glaucoma. Basset Hounds can have primary open-angle glaucoma and primary narrow-angle glaucoma. Glaucoma is often associated with dysplasia of the pectinate ligament, which affected 38.4% of Basset Hounds in varying degrees in a study from the UK. Various symptoms occur, which can be acute or chronic. Glaucoma is very painful for the animals, which can be clinically noticeable through blepharospasm and/or an altered behaviour or discomfort. Vision can be impaired to the point of blindness. 

Nictitating membrane prolapse and eversion
In a comprehensive study with data from the USA and Mexico, the prevalence of cherry eye in Basset Hounds was 2.13%, which corresponds to a higher incidence than in a normal dog population. When analysing data from Great Britain, a 2.15-fold increased risk of cherry eye was found in Basset Hounds compared to mixed breeds. In most cases, the animals are less than one year old when they first appear. A nictitating membrane version (protrusion of the cartilaginous part of the nictitating membrane gland) is seen in approx. 1% of the Basset Hounds examined.

In its Breed Report (2016-2021), the Swedish animal insurance company AGRIA reports that the relative risk of various eye diseases occurring in bassets is twice as high as the average for all other breeds insured there. The most frequently mentioned symptoms are inflammation and infection of the conjunctiva and corneal ulcers.

Psychological:
Painful glaucoma has a significant impact on the well-being of dogs and leads to suffering. Visual impairment or blindness caused by this or other eye diseases have an impact on the behaviour of the animals and therefore on their well-being.

Burden category: 2-3

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Ear diseases (see also leaflet dog ears)

Physical:
In a study from Great Britain, basset hounds showed a 5.87-fold increased risk of otitis externa compared with mixed breeds. They were therefore the most affected breed. The long, drooping ears are a predisposing factor. O’Neill et al (2021) consider it possible that the long and deep ear canal of Basset Hounds delays the regression of an infection once it has started and therefore there is an increased risk of chronic otitis. Malassezia can be detected in the ear canal of healthy dogs, which can cause ear infections (see skin diseases). The affected skin is reddened, secretions may be discharged and a foul odour and swelling may be detected. The dogs are characterised by head shaking and ear scratching and show signs of pain. In chronic cases, the changes progress to stenosis of the external auditory canal. The length of the ears, which touch the ground when the head is lowered or even drag across the ground and protrude into the food, favours ear injuries and (chronic) ear diseases.
The relative risk of ear disease in Swedish bassets was about three times higher than the average of the dog breeds compared. 

Psychological:
Pain and itching have a significant impact on the well-being of dogs. Their hearing and thus their orientation can be impaired, which has an influence on their typical behaviour. The ears play a part in the expressive behaviour of dogs, with which they communicate with each other and with people. Long, floppy ears such as those of the Basset Hound prevent this communication and thus species-typical behavioural expressions.

Burden category: 2-3 depending on severity

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Excessive skin and wrinkling

The Basset Hound is known for its excessive wrinkling of the face, neck and legs. Although listed in the FCI group of running dogs and according to the breed standard not (or no longer) desirable to this extent („must on no account be excessive„), the skin folds of show-winning specimens are often still extreme and often hinder the animals‘ movement. 

Burden category: 2-3 depending on severity

In addition to motor impairments, this burdenful characteristic leads to various skin diseases:

Skin fold dermatitis/skin fold pyoderma

Physical:
Skin fold dermatitis/pyoderma is a common infection that occurs in skin folds where warm, moist conditions are created that favour the growth of bacteria. Skin pockets are particularly susceptible to these infections as they are difficult to ventilate and keep clean. In areas such as the mouth, leftover food can exacerbate the problem. Dog breeds with a lot of loose skin, such as Shar-Pei, Spaniel, Basset Hound, Pekingese and Boxer, are particularly affected. Commonly affected areas include the face, paws, lips, the base of the tail and the vulva. Overweight animals are more susceptible to this disease due to additional skin folds.

These factors promote an imbalance in the physico-chemical microenvironment of the skin, making it more susceptible to bacterial, parasitic and viral infections.

In a retrospective study from the UK, the Basset was among the most affected dog breeds with an annual prevalence of 1.96% and in the same study showed an odds ratio of 10.70 for skin fold dermatitis, predominantly on the lips, and thus has a 10-fold higher risk of disease than mixed-breed dogs.

In its Breed Report (2016-2021), AGRIA states that the Basset Hound has a relative risk (RR) of developing skin infections that is approximately 8 times higher than the average for all insured breeds. Itching is described about twice as often in Basset Hounds.

Malassezia infection

Physical:
Malassezia (e.g. Malassezia pachydermatis) can be detected in both clinically normal Basset Hounds and those affected by Malassezia dermatitis. A small study with two Basset Hounds found a significantly higher incidence of Malassezia pachydermatis on the skin compared to other breeds. An evaluation of the available studies concludes that Basset Hounds belong to the breeds with an increased risk of malassezia dermatitis. This is confirmed by a retrospective study with a small number of animals and the World Association for Veterinary Dermatology. In the case of infection of the skin (seborrhoeic dermatitis), the oral cavity or mucous membrane could serve as a reservoir for malasseziae, which can be transmitted during grooming. Malasseziae are commonly found on the skin, in the ear canal, on mucosal surfaces, in the anal sac and in the vagina of healthy dogs. Malassezia populations are significantly increased in the affected areas. In addition to increased moisture, skin folds are likely to play a role as a predisposing factor for infections. It is assumed that malassezia dermatitis is usually preceded by another skin disease. The lesions occur locally or generalised and often affect the lips, ear canal, armpits, groin, ventral neck, interdigital spaces, perineal region and the area between the skin folds. Dermatoses such as allergies, keratinisation defects, skin manifestations of endocrinopathies and bacterial pyoderma can also occur. The clinical picture also includes itching. In generalised cases, the skin is erythematous, greasy or waxy, scaly and crusty. Chronic cases are possible.

Primary seborrhoea

Physical:
The World Association for Veterinary Dermatology also mentions an increased risk of primary seborrhoea in Basset Hounds. This is an inherited disorder of keratinisation. Clinical signs are hyperplastic otitis externa, dull coat with scaling of the skin, greasy skin with an unpleasant odour, especially in the area of skin folds, itchy areas, digital hyperkeratosis and dry and brittle claws. Areas particularly affected by seborrhoeic dermatitis are around the eyes and mouth, on the pinna, between the toes, in the armpits or in the groin region. The symptoms appear at an early age and progress with increasing age. Secondary infections caused by bacteria or malassezia are possible.

Atopy/atopic dermatitis

Physical:
The Basset Hound has a genetic predisposition to atopy or atopic dermatitis. The breed is described as having more than twice the relative risk of developing atopy and itching than the average of all other breeds.

The main symptom of atopy is persistent pruritus (itching). Pruritus leads to self-injury, alopecia, skin abrasions and ulcerations associated with the possible development of pustular dermatitis, crusting, scaling and hair loss. The following clinical signs may also occur: Conjunctivitis, otitis, hyperhidrosis and chronic changes due to pruritus, such as salivary spots, lichenification and hyperpigmentation. Acral itchy nodules and lick granulomas can be further possible secondary manifestations of atopic dermatitis.

Psychological:
Itching, which is associated with most of the skin diseases described above and occurs almost continuously, places a heavy burden on the animals and impairs their well-being. Behavioural changes due to severe and persistent itching are also described.

Burden category: 1-3 depending on severity

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Gastric dilatation and volvulus

Physical:
Although it is mainly large dog breeds that are affected by gastric dilatation with and without volvulus, the Basset Hound ranks eighth in this list when analysing different breeds in the USA. Compared to other breeds, the risk is 1.6 times higher in Basset Hounds. The main reason discussed is the Basset Hound’s particularly large ratio between thorax depth and width, combined with hepatogastric ligaments that become looser with increasing age. 

A comprehensive study from the UK with data from 50 clinics found a prevalence of gastric torsion in Basset Hounds of 4.6%. In a survey in the UK, the prevalence of morbidity in Basset Hounds was 3.5%, meaning that they have an increased risk of dying from the disease. Affected dogs exhibit gastric torsion and/or an (acutely) dilated stomach. Clinically, a distended abdomen, restlessness, dyspnoea, salivation, retching, regurgitation of mucus and abdominal tension can be observed. Sometimes the dogs already show signs of shock. The acute clinic of gastric dilatation and volvulus is often an emergency in which euthanasia is sometimes indicated to prevent further suffering. The survival rate is less than 50 %. The diagnosis is first made on average at the age of five.

Psychological:
Affected dogs can die from gastric dilatation (and volvulus) or be euthanised. Gastric dilatation and volvulus leads to extreme symptoms and severe suffering in affected dogs, so it must be assessed in each individual case whether or when euthanasia is indicated.

Burden category: 3

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Thrombopathy

Physical:
Basset hound thrombopathy is a congenital blood coagulation disorder in which platelet function is impaired. It is a defect in signalling transduction. Other causes are described. The clinical picture ranges from asymptomatic to intermediate cases of platelet dysfunction to severely affected dogs. Intermittent episodes of bleeding may occur, up to severe anaemia due to prolonged bleeding time, and increased bleeding tendency.

Psychological:
In the case of a pronounced clinic, affected dogs suffer from general weakness and are thus restricted in their typical behaviour.

Burden category: 2-3

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Severe combined immunodeficiency

Physical:
Affected dogs have an impaired immune response. The symptoms appear in the first few months of life. They are characterised by a higher susceptibility to infections and are delayed in their development. Attempts at therapy often fail. 

In Sweden, Basset Hounds showed an approx. 2-fold increased relative risk of immunological problems compared to the average of all other breeds.

Psychological:
The lives of many dogs are severely shortened until they usually die or have to be euthanised within the first three to four months of life.

Burden category: 3

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Mortality

At the beginning of the 1990s, the Basset Hound was already one of the high-risk breeds in Sweden for an increased mortality rate. Among other things, the occurrence of gastric torsion was cited as a frequent cause of death. In a follow-up survey of mortality rates of dogs insured in Sweden, the Basset Hound no longer appeared due to the low number of insured animals. Current data on the breed’s mortality cannot be reliably collected for the same reason (AGRIA, personal communication, December 2024).

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Overall rating

When comparing the most common dog breeds in the UK, the Basset Hound was the fourth most affected breed directly associated with the appearance required by the breed standard.

Due to the problems identified in the Breed Watch System in the UK, the Basset Hound was upgraded to the (highest) Breed Watch Category 3 from 1 January 2025. Category 3 includes „Breeds with visible health concerns linked to exaggerated conformation, requiring increased support and proactive measures„. The following visible conditions requiring proactive measures were indicated for the Basset Hound:

• Eyelids not in normal contact with the eyeball, they are turned inwards or outwards
• Ears that extend more than slightly beyond end of muzzle
• Signs of dermatitis irritation in skin folds, and/or hair loss or scarring from previous dermatitis
• Inadequate ground clearance – overly deep body and/ or presence of excessive skin
• Incorrect bite
• Too fat
• Excessive skin on the head, body and/or legs

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Conclusion:

In the Basset, the breed-related (standard-related) initial values already result in an overall burden category of 2-3.

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Animal-ethical evaluation of the torture breeding problem in the Basset Hound

Based on the facts stated in QUEN Fact Sheet No. 31, which lists the probability of a number of breeding-related defects in burden categories 2-3 (moderate to severe burden) and 3 (severe burden), it can be stated from an animal ethics perspective that continued breeding with affected animals of this breed is to be classified as highly problematic, as a breeder must expect that the animals he brings into the world through his breeding will endure considerable and prolonged pain or suffering. This is already unacceptable if at least one of the „foreseeable“ hereditary defects in the burden categories 2-3 mentioned in the fact sheet occur in a foreseeable manner in at least one of the animals bred by him, whereby „foreseeable“ means hereditary changes in the offspring even if it is uncertain whether they will only occur after a generation jump in later generations.

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6. Heredity, genetics, known gene tests, if applicable, average coefficient of inbreeding (COI), if applicable

Chondrodystrophy and chondrodysplasia

A connection between chondrodysplasia and the FGF4 retrogene, which is located on the CFA 18 gene (chromosome 18), has been demonstrated. Chondrodystrophy is inherited polygenically with different characteristics. Genome studies in one breed of dog were also able to link chondrodystrophy to the FGF4 retrogene on the CFA 12 gene (chromosome 12). Dogs with both gene variations, such as the Basset Hound, have particularly short legs. The gene variation on chromosome 12 is particularly associated with the occurrence of intervertebral disc disease.

A genetic test is available.

Other genetic tests available for the breed

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) exon 2

Hyperuricosuria

Lafora epilepsy

Malignant hyperthermia

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG)

Progressive retinal atrophy (prcd-PRA)

Thrombocytopathy

X-linked severe immunodeficiency

7. Diagnosis – necessary examinations before breeding or exhibitions

Caution: Invasive examinations that are stressful for the animal should only be carried out in justified cases of suspicion in breeding animals and not if visible defects already lead to a ban on breeding and showing.

Chondrodystrophy and chondrodysplasia

The assessment of the external appearance is indicative. The bones and growth plates can be assessed more precisely by X-ray. If necessary, a genetic test can be carried out for differentiation.

Elbow dysplasia

The typical deviation of a normal paw and foreleg position can be determined by inspection. Imaging procedures, e.g. computer tomography, enable detailed visualisation of the bony parts of the joints. In addition, computer tomography not only enables the detection but also the monitoring of the progression of elbow dysplasia.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

For an initial assessment, a medical history is taken and a neurological examination is carried out. Imaging procedures such as MRI, CT and myelography can be used to examine and assess the affected areas in more detail. If necessary, a genetic test can be carried out.

Eye diseases

A complete ophthalmological examination and, depending on the suspected diagnosis, a gonioscopy, for example, should be carried out. If necessary and before breeding or showing, a corresponding genetic test should be carried out. 

Ear diseases

In addition to the medical history, a thorough examination of the ears and ear canal as well as the skin (e.g. due to malassezia infections) should be carried out.

Skin diseases

In addition to a detailed medical history, further diagnostic tools should be used to examine the skin, such as cytological examinations and skin scrapings. 

Gastric dilatation and volvulus

In addition to the medical history and clinical examination, imaging procedures such as X-rays and/or ultrasound are used for a more precise assessment in suspected cases. Blood tests, e.g. to determine the lactate level, should be carried out in order to assess the condition and the next steps. 

Thrombopathy

Platelet function can be analysed using various (sometimes very complex) test procedures. 

Severe combined immunodeficiency

As part of the diagnostic process, blood tests are carried out in addition to the medical history, for example to detect potential lymphopenia and to determine immunoglobulin concentrations.

8. Necessary or possible orders from an animal welfare perspective

Decisions on breeding or exhibition bans should be made in connection with the burden category (BC). Depending on the severity and findings, the decisive factor for a breeding ban may be the most severe finding, i.e. the finding that most affects the animal, and its categorisation in one of the burden categories (BC), or also the correlation assessment if many individual breeding-related defects or breed-typical predispositions are present. The individual genomic inbreeding coefficient of an animal and its status as a carrier animal for risk genes should also be taken into account. 

In general, care should also be taken when breeding Basset Hounds:

In addition to external, anatomical and functional characteristics and the behaviour of both breeding partners, the possibilities of breeding hygiene advice at molecular genetic level should be used and in particular the genetic inbreeding coefficient, the heterozygosity value and the dog leukocyte antigens (DLA) for the breed should be determined. Increasingly, so-called matching tools/scores can also facilitate the selection of suitable breeding partners.

a) Orders that appear necessary

 Breeding ban according to § 11b TierSchG or possibly only restricted breeding licence for animals  with hereditary/breeding-related defects in burden categories 2 and 3, in particular with

• Intervertebral disc diseases (IVDD)
• Elbow dysplasia
• Eye diseases, if breeding-related defect
• Skin diseases
• Thrombopathy
• Severe combined immunodeficiency

 

Exhibition ban according to § 10 TierSchHuV

• Ears that touch the ground when the head is lowered
• Eye diseases, in particular ectropion, entropion, macroblepharon
• Excessive wrinkling, especially on the limbs
• Too little floor clearance
• Carriers of risk genes

b) Possible orders

• Order for permanent infertility (sterilisation/castration) in accordance with 11b (2)
• Ordering measures to restrict breeding, selection of suitable breeding partners (Matching Tools)
• Determination of the genomic inbreeding coefficient (COI) of both breeding partners,
• Order to carry out genetic tests on both breeding partners.

    

Please note:

Measures taken by the competent authority must be recognizably suitable for averting future harm to the animal concerned and/or its offspring. With regard to the type and depth of processing of orders and breeding bans, decisions are always made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the competent authority, taking into account the circumstances found on site.

9. General assessment of animal welfare law

a) Germany

From a legal point of view, dogs with the defects/syndromes described above are classified in Germany as torture breeding in accordance with § 11b TierSchG.

Justification:

According to § 11b TierSchG, it is prohibited to breed vertebrates if breeding knowledge indicates that, as a result of breeding, the offspring or progeny will have, among other things

• body parts or organs are congenitally missing or unsuitable or deformed for use in accordance with the species and this results in pain, suffering or damage (§ 11b Para. 1 No. 1 TierSchG) or
• the keeping is only possible with pain or avoidable suffering or leads to damage (§ 11b Para. 1 No. 2 c TierSchG).

The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defines pain as 

„an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with or resembling actual or potential tissue damage (https://www.iasp-pain.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/revised-definition-flysheet_R2-1-1-1.pdf) 

Pain is defined in animals as an unpleasant sensory perception caused by actual or potential injury, which triggers motor or vegetative reactions, results in learned avoidance behaviour and can potentially change specific behaviours (Hirt/Maisack/Moritz/Felde, TierSchG, Kommentar 4th ed. 2023 § 1 para. 12 mwN; basically also Lorz/Metzger TierSchG 7th ed. § 1 para. 20).

Suffering is any impairment of well-being not already covered by the concept of pain that goes beyond simple discomfort and lasts for a not insignificant period of time (Hirt/Maisack/Moritz/Felde Tierschutzgesetz Kommentar 4th ed. 2023 § 1 para. 19 mwN; Lorz/Metzger, TierSchG Komm. 7th ed. 2019 § 1 para. 33 mwN). Suffering can also be physically and mentally debilitating; fear in particular is categorised as suffering in the commentary and case law (Hirt/Maisack/Moritz/Felde Section 1 TierSchG para. 24 mwN; Lorz/Metzger Section 1 TierSchG para. 37).

Damage occurs when the physical or mental condition of an animal is temporarily or permanently altered for the worse (Hirt/Maisack/Moriz/Felde TierSchG Komm. 4th ed. 2023 § 1 para. 27 mwN; Lorz/Metzger TierSchG Komm. 7th ed. 2019 § 1 para. 52 mwN), whereby completely minor impairments based on a physical or psychological basis are not taken into account. „The target condition of the animal is assessed on animals of the same species. The absence of body parts is regularly assessed as damage in the commentary literature“ (VG Hamburg decision of 4 April 2018, 11 E 1067/18 para. 47, also Lorz/Metzger TierSchG Komm. § 1 para. 52).

The breeding of Basset Hounds in the presence of the defects described above fulfils the offence of torture breeding due to the single or multiple damages, pain and suffering described in detail in section 5:

• Damage to the spine and extremities and associated pain, damage and suffering (e.g. due to restricted movement, incontinence caused by herniated discs).
• Eye diseases and associated pain, damage and suffering.
• Ear diseases and associated pain, damage and suffering.
• Skin diseases and associated pain, damage and suffering.
• Gastric dilatation and volvulus and associated severe pain and suffering
• Thrombopathy and severe combined immunodeficiency and associated suffering from generalised weakness and damage from premature mortality

It should be noted that a breeding ban applies not only when breeding is carried out with animals that themselves have traits relevant to cruelty (trait carriers), but also when it is known or must be known that an animal used for breeding can pass on traits that can lead to one of the detrimental changes in the offspring (carriers, in particular animals that have already produced damaged offspring; Lorz/Metzger, Kommentar zum TierSchG § 11b Rn. 6 with further evidence).

 – An important indication of a hereditary defect is that a disease or behavioural abnormality occurs more frequently in related animals than in the overall population of the dog species. The fact that the breed or population has proven to be viable over a longer period of time does not speak against damage (see Lorz/Metzger commentary on the TierSchG § 11b para. 9).

Data from major pet health insurance companies show that Basset Hounds are at several times the average risk of various diseases compared to other breeds.

 – The prohibition applies regardless of the subjective facts, i.e. regardless of whether the breeder himself recognised or should have recognised the possibility of harmful consequences. Due to this objective standard of care, the breeder cannot invoke a lack of subjective knowledge or experience if the respective knowledge and experience can be expected from a careful breeder of the respective animal species (see Hirt/Maisack/Moritz, Tierschutzgesetz, Kommentar, 4th ed. 2023, Section 11b TierSchG para. 6).

– Inheritance-related changes in the descendants are also foreseeable if it is uncertain whether they will only occur in later generations after a generational leap (cf. Goetschel in Kluge § 11b para. 14).

b) Austria

Dogs with the defects/syndromes described above are categorised as torture breeding in Austria in accordance with § 5 TSchG

In particular, anyone who “ breeds in a way that is foreseeable to cause pain, suffering, harm or fear to the animal or its offspring (torture breeding), so that as a result of genetic abnormalities in particular one or more of the following clinical symptoms occur in the offspring not only temporarily with significant effects on their health or significantly impair physiological life courses or cause an increased risk of injury“ is in breach of Section 5 of the Austrian Animal Welfare Act.

*The word „in particular“ means that the list is not exhaustive, but exemplary. This means that traits and symptoms other than those listed in §5, if they lead to breeding-related changes that may be associated with pain, suffering or damage, are also recognised as torture breeding traits.

Chondrodystrophy/chondrodysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, elbow dysplasia: Breeding with dogs that suffer from pathological changes of the spine and limbs or are genetically predisposed to do so is to be qualified as torture breeding if one of the following symptoms listed in § 5 is realised: movement abnormalities, neurological symptoms.

Ear length/excessive wrinkling/wrinkling: Breeding with dogs that suffer from pathological changes to the ears or are genetically predestined to do so is to be qualified as torture breeding if one of the following symptoms listed in § 5 is realised: movement abnormalities.

Ectropion or entropion: Breeding with dogs that suffer from pathological changes of the eyes or are genetically predestined to do so is to be qualified as torture breeding if one of the following symptoms listed in § 5 is realised: inflammation of the conjunctiva and/or the cornea, blindness.

Skin infections/primary seborrhoea: Breeding with dogs that suffer from pathological changes to the skin or are genetically predestined to do so is to be qualified as torture breeding if one of the following symptoms listed in § 5 is present: inflammation of the skin.

Gastric dilatation and volvulus: Breeding with dogs that suffer from pathological changes of the gastrointestinal tract or are genetically predestined to do so is to be qualified as torture breeding, as significant effects on health or physiological life courses are realised.

c) Switzerland

Anyone wishing to breed with an animal that exhibits a trait or symptom that may lead to moderate or severe burden in connection with the breeding objective must first have a burden assessment carried out. Only hereditary burdens are taken into account in the burden assessment (see Art. 5 of the FSVO Ordinance on Animal Welfare in Breeding (TSchZV)). Dogs with defects that can be assigned to burden category 3 are subject to a breeding ban in accordance with Art. 9 TSchZV. It is also prohibited to breed with animals if the breeding objective results in category 3 defects in the offspring. Breeding with animals in category 2 is permitted if the breeding objective is for the offspring to be less affected than the parents (Art. 6 TSchZV). Annex 2 of the TSchZV lists characteristics and symptoms that can lead to moderate or severe burden in connection with the breeding objective. Degenerative joint changes, skull deformities with disabling effects on the ability to breathe, the position of the eyes and the birth process, excessive wrinkling, slipped discs, eye dysfunctions, persistent entropion and cataracts are explicitly mentioned. In addition, individual breeding forms are expressly prohibited in accordance with Art. 10 TSchVZ. In other cases, however, a breeding ban is only imposed on a case-by-case basis. Animals that have been bred on the basis of unauthorised breeding objectives may not be exhibited (Art. 30a para. 4 let. b TSchV).

d) Netherlands

It is prohibited in the Netherlands under Article 3.4 „Breeding with domestic animals“ of the Animal Keeper Decree to breed with domestic animals in a way that is detrimental to the welfare and health of the parent animals or their offspring.

In any case, breeding must prevent as far as possible that

1. serious hereditary defects and diseases are passed on to the offspring or can occur in them;
2. external characteristics are passed on to the offspring or can develop in them that have harmful consequences for the welfare or health of the animals.

The following hereditary diseases or abnormalities are recognised in the Basset Hound in accordance with Article 3.4: elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, spinal anomalies.

The following harmful external characteristics can be passed on to the offspring of the Basset Hound: very short legs, long back, excessive skin folds.

Detailed legal assessments and/or expert opinions, if already available, can be made available to veterinary offices for official use on request.

10. Relevant jurisdiction

1. Germany: Not for basset hounds but for elbow dysplasia: VG Schleswig-Holstein, judgement of 02 July 2018, 1 A 52/16
2. Austria: Not known
3. Switzerland: Not known.
4. Netherlands: Not known
5. Sweden: Not known
6. Norway: Not known.

11. Order example available?

No.

Examples of orders are only made available to veterinary offices for official use on request.

12.  Bibliography/ References/ Links

Only a selection of sources on the defects described above and, where applicable, general literature on breeding-related defects in dogs is given here. More comprehensive literature lists on the scientific background will be sent exclusively to veterinary offices on request.

Note: The description of health problems associated with the trait, for which there is not yet sufficient scientific evidence, is based on the experience of experts from veterinary practice and/or university institutions as well as publicly accessible databases or publications from animal insurance companies and therefore originates from different evidence classes.

As breeding and showing are international nowadays, the information does not usually only refer to the prevalence of defects or traits in individual associations, clubs or countries.

Sources:

AGRIA Pet Insurance Sweden. Basset Hound Agria Breed Profiles Veterinary Care 2016-2021.

Bond, R., Morris, D. O., Guillot, J., Bensignor, E. J., Robson, D., Mason, K. V., Kano, R., & Hill, P. B. (2020). Biology, diagnosis and treatment of Malassezia dermatitis in dogs and cats: Clinical Consensus Guidelines of the World Association for Veterinary Dermatology. Veterinary Dermatology, 31(1), 73-77. https://doi.org/10.1111/vde.12834

Bundesamt für Lebensmittelsicherheit. (2015). Verordnung des BLV über den Tierschutz beim Züchten. https://www.fedlex.admin.ch/eli/cc/2014/747/de 

Bundesgesetz über den Schutz der Tiere (TSchG) Österreich (2005). https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/GeltendeFassung.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&Gesetzesnummer=20003541

Federal Act on the Protection of Animals (TSchG) Austria (2005). https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/GeltendeFassung.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&Gesetzesnummer=20003541

Federal Food Safety Authority. (2015). FSVO Ordinance on Animal Welfare in Breeding. https://www.fedlex.admin.ch/eli/cc/2014/747/de 

Dees, D. D., Fritz, K. J., MacLaren, N. E., Esson, D. W., Gaerig, A. M. S., Atkins, R. M., & Knollinger, A. M. (2014). Efficacy of prophylactic antiglaucoma and anti-inflammatory medications in canine. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 17(3), 195-200. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/vop.12069

Evans, K. M., & Adams, V. J. (2010). Mortality and morbidity due to gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in pedigree dogs in the UK. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 51(7), 376-381. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2010.00949.x

Freyer, J., Labadie, J. D., Huff, J. T., Denyer, M., Forman, O. P., Chodroff Foran, R., & Donner, J. (2024). Association of FGF4L1 Retrogene Insertion with Prolapsed Gland of the Nictitans (Cherry Eye) in Dogs. Genes, 15(2), 198. https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15020198

Gelatt, K. N., & MacKay, E. O. (2004). Prevalence of the breed-related glaucomas in pure-bred dogs in North America. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 7(2), 97-111. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1463-5224.2004.04006.x

Genetics Committee of the American College of Veterinary Opthalmologists (ACVO). (2023). ACVO 2023-Blue Book Ocular disorders presumed to be inherited in purebred dogs. ACVO-Blue-Book-2023.pdf

Gough, A., Thomas, A., & O’Neill, D. (2018). Breed predispositions to disease in dogs and cats (Third edition). Wiley.

Hale, F. A. (2021). Dental and Oral Health for the Brachycephalic Companion Animal . In Health and Welfare of Brachycephalic (Flat-faced) Companion Animals (1st, pp. 235-250). Taylor and Francis Group. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9780429263231-14/dental-oral-health-brachycephalic-companion-animal-fraser-hale

Hirt, A., Maisack, C., Moritz, J., & Felde, B. (2023). Tierschutzgesetz: Mit TierSchHundeV, TierSchNutztV, TierSchVersV, TierSchTrV, EU-Tierransport-VO, TierSchlV, EU-Tierschlacht-VO, TierErzHaVerbG: Kommentar (4th edition). Publisher Franz Vahlen.

Lorz, A., & Metzger, E. (2019). Tierschutzgesetz: Mit Allgemeiner Verwaltungsvorschrift, Art. 20a GG sowie zugehörigen Gesetzen, Rechtsverordnungen und Rechtsakten der Europäischen Union: Kommentar (7th, neubearbeitte Auflage). C.H. Beck.

Kluge, H.-G. (ed.). (2002). Animal Welfare Act: Commentary (1st ed.). Kohlhammer.

Dutch State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation of 19 October 2012, no. 291872, Directorate for Legislation and Legal Affairs. (2024). Dutch Livestock Decree. Livestock Decree. https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0035217/2024-07-01/#Hoofdstuk3_Paragraaf1_Artikel3.4

Oliver, J. A. C., Ekiri, A., & Mellersh, C. S. (2016). Prevalence of pectinate ligament dysplasia and associations with age, sex and intraocular pressure in the Basset hound, Flatcoated retriever and Dandie Dinmont terrier. Canine Genetics and Epidemiology, 3(1), 1. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40575-016-0033-1

O’Neill, D. G., Volk, A. V., Soares, T., Church, D. B., Brodbelt, D. C., & Pegram, C. (2021). Frequency and predisposing factors for canine otitis externa in the UK – a primary veterinary care epidemiological view. Canine Medicine and Genetics, 8(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40575-021-00106-1

O’Neill, D. G., Yin, Y., Tetas Pont, R., Brodbelt, D. C., Church, D. B., Pegram, C., & Mustikka, M. (2022). Breed and conformational predispositions for prolapsed nictitating membrane gland (PNMG) in dogs in the UK: A VetCompass study. PLOS ONE, 17(1), e0260538. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0260538

O’Neill, D. G., Rowe, D., Brodbelt, D. C., Pegram, C., & Hendricks, A. (2022). Ironing out the wrinkles and folds in the epidemiology of skin fold dermatitis in dog breeds in the UK. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 10553. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-14483-5

Plant, J. D., Rosenkrantz, W. S., & Griffin, C. E. (1992). Factors associated with and prevalence of high Malassezia pachydermatis numbers on dog skin. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 201(6), 879-882. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.1992.201.06.879

Smolders LA, Bergknut N, Grinwis GCM, Hagman R, Lagerstedt AS, Hazewinkel HAW, et al. (2013) Intervertebral disc degeneration in the dog. Part 2: Chondrodystrophic and non-chondrodystrophic breeds. Vet J., 195(3):292-9. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1090023312004339

Thatcher H, Targett M, Alcoverro E, Stee K, Schofield I, Lowrie M, et al. (2024) Incidence and clinical characterisation of thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusions in Basset Hounds compared with Dachshunds. Vet Rec, 194(1):e3212. https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/vetr.3212

The Kennel Club, UK. (2024). Breed Watch (health and welfare of show dogs). https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/events-and-activities/dog-showing/judging-dog-shows/breed-watch-health-and-welfare-of-show-dogs/

The Kennel Club, UK. (2024). Basset Hound Category 3. https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/events-and-activities/dog-showing/judging-dog-shows/breed-watch-health-and-welfare-of-show-dogs/basset-hound-category-3/