From the ArcaMax Publishing, Cats & Dogs Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/catsanddogs/s-177149-610479
The Basset Hound is a short-legged scent hound, bred to hunt by scent.
A breed of French lineage, medieval French friars bred them as
shorter-legged dog capable of following a rabbits and hare under brush
in thick forests.
The Basset Hound is a very calm, companionable, and especially loyal
breed known for their pleasant disposition and emotional sensitivity.
They're an excellent pet for families with children and other pets.
Bassets hate to be alone and, if they're to be left unattended
fegularly for any length of time a second pet is recommended. Like
other hounds, Bassets are often difficult to obedience train as
they'll obey commands when offered a food, but will "forget" later.
Bassets are also notoriously difficult to housebreak. Bassets might
howl or bay rather than bark when they want something. They also use a
low, murmuring whine to get attention, which sounds to many owners as
though their Bassets are "talking."