Why Unique? The Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a long, low scenthound, bred for hunting small game. Its uniqueness in structure is an accommodation for balance due to its shortened forelegs. His ‘different’ stature, a result of achondroplasia, is commonly called dwarfism. However, his form of achondroplasia causes arrested development of only long bones, yet retention of his other normal-sized features. His body remains that of a larger, taller dog. In order to support the rather heavy body on shorter legs he needs a special wrap-around front. It is a balance issue: he needs to have a unique column of support. If one understands the reason for his different front, the Basset will not be difficult to judge and intelligently breed.

Since the original purpose of the Basset Hound was “to follow a trail over and through difficult terrain,” the breed should be an agile and effortless mover. His conservation of energy provides for endurance. It is important when evaluating a Basset to keep his original purpose in mind.

The Overall Proportion and Balance

The Basset Hound proportion is rectangular, approximately two to one; i.e., he is approximately twice as long as tall. We generally measure from forechest to the point of buttocks. In addition, the distance from the deepest point of the chest to the ground should be no more than 1/3 the total height of an adult.

Forequarter Assembly

Because the Basset is an achondroplastic breed, we sometimes find structural problems that are not generally seen in longer-legged breeds with straight columns of support.

The Basset has crook’d forelegs, meaning curving foreleg to accommodate the chest. Crook’d is not turned out feet, as is erroneously thought; this adaptation along with his heavy bone and large, well-rounded front paws are features that give him body support, especially to the forequarters. The chest falls below the elbow.

Front feet should be matched, that is, the feet will turn out a trifle and balance with the width of a proper shoulder, neither wide nor narrow. A prominent sternum is a hallmark of the breed. Short neck, lack of forechest, a short upper arm all suggest an ill-fitting and forward assembly. Proper shoulder length and matching length of upper arm, with elbows lying close to the chest, are mandatory in this hunting breed.

The shoulder angle in the Basset should be approximately 90 degrees, with the upper arm and shoulder blade of equal length. Good shoulders, if present, should be rewarded; they are very hard to breed.

Hindquarters

Rear angulation should also be 90 degrees with well-let-down stifles. Cow hocks and bowed rears are considered serious faults.

Ribcage

The Basset Hound ribcage should be long and smooth; the breed’s length is in his ribcage, not his loin. The posterior sternum should extend beyond the forelegs by about four inches. Flanged (flared, as in a flip hairdo) ribs are faulty.

Movement

Movement is a good indicator of the overall conformation. Without the correct movement, the Basset could not perform as originally intended. Movement is deliberate, in no sense clumsy. There should be good reach and drive, powerful and effortless, with backline level. Going away, the Basset hind legs should move true, and coming back, the front legs should show support and good depth of chest. That wrap-around front allows the legs to support the body by coming in under the dog. Bassets converge toward their center of gravity but do not single track. The down and back is important.

Some believe movement is not important because of the Basset’s unique structure. However, it is due to his unusual proportions, to be functional, that could not be further from the truth. The Basset should be penalized (to the extent of degree of departure) for the same movement faults commonly found in other breeds.

Head

The head is large, exhibiting a well-domed skull with a deep muzzle and moderate stop. The dewlap is pronounced. Eyes are dark, with prominent haw. Prominent haw does not mean gaping droop to the eyelid, hazardous to a hunter. Ears are long, velvety, low set, and turning slightly inward for funneling/stirring up scent. High set flat ears are a serious fault, the only serious fault not related to movement as defined in the standard but one related to function. Although the head displays important elements of breed type, we do not want undue emphasis placed here as we are not a head breed.

Size, Bone and Length of Leg

Some Bassets may have more bone or weight than others; some may be taller than others. Length of leg, ears, and body can all vary, but remain correct within the breed standard. It is up to the judge to determine if each hound meets the breed standard.

Regarding size, the standard says simply, “More bone, size considered, than any other breed.” Many breeders, exhibitors, and judges find this statement confusing. Perhaps a reasonable way to interpret the statement would be to consider the height of the exhibit being examined, and ask the question, “Does it have more bone than another breed of the same height?” For example, the Beagle. We are not suggesting the breed have bone of some of our taller dogs—St. Bernard, Wolfhound, or Mastiff.

Style VS. Type

It is important to understand the difference between correct breed type and style within breed type. The official breed standard identifies the features that define breed type. Style is an individual interpretation of that standard. More than one style may exhibit correct breed type and meet the standard. Think about your own breed, the breeds you know well, you have different styles within type.

All good type but shades of different styles.

‘Icing’

Another confusion of style and type is “icing”—type features we like but not in excess. The unique look and structure of the Basset lends itself toward caricature, but more is not better. Rewarding animals with highly exaggerated features at the expense of soundness is deleterious to the breed. Breeders and judges have a tendency to overemphasize one or two features, such as excess skin or bone, forgetting the soundness demanded for this breed.

Consistency in Judging

We often hear that a judge didn’t evaluate dogs consistently because two different styles have been awarded. Good judges and breeders look beyond “style” and award or breed the best examples of the breed, according to the standard, regardless of style.

Color, Markings and Temperament

Bassets may be any recognized hound color; markings and distribution of color are not important. The Basset is known for his even temperament: mild, never sharp or timid.

Prioritizing

It is important to understand how the breed standard prioritizes virtues and faults in the breed as you evaluate the “whole.” The standard prioritizes faults as follows: (italics below offer commentary)

• Serious faults: Faults relating to incorrect movement (running gear—especially forequarter assembly) which will hinder endurance and performance are considered serious faults. The only exception is the high set flat ear, also a serious fault.
• Faults: In general, faults relate to features that include the head, ribcage, topline features, and body proportion.
• Permissible But Not Desirable: Cosmetic details such as a liver-colored nose or light eye color are permissible but not desirable.

In general, faults relating to movement or which affect the health or well-being of the dog are to be penalized, based on the severity of the fault. Faults which are cosmetic in nature and do not impede the dog’s ability to perform are less serious. Judges and breeders alike must consider the dog as a whole, as individual parts are indeed useless if not in balance and able to work together.

Disqualifications

There are three disqualifications in the Official Basset Hound Breed Standard. Not seen often, they are:

1. Height over 15 inches: It is unusual to see a Basset over height in the ring. If a judge has any doubts, they should be comfortable measuring the exhibit.
2. Knuckling over.
3. Distinctly long coat.

Examining the Basset

The Basset Hound is expected to be judged on the ramp for all aspects of judging Bassets: breed, group, and BIS. The Basset is a sensitive breed and should be examined with efficiency and gentleness.

Please do not pull the Basset’s skin over its head or up on the back to check for elasticity or looseness. Be aware that when judging the Basset, loose clothing, long ties, scarves, or jewelry can interfere with the dog.

Never pick up a Basset Hound to drop its front, and don’t push down on the hindquarters. It should go without saying, never straddle or step over a Basset during an exam.

It is inappropriate to make sounds to see expression. If you feel the need to re-examine the Basset, please put it back on the ramp.

Generally speaking, the Basset Hound is not a “baiting” breed.

The photos/sketches are from Basset Hound Club of America’s JEC Materials: “Pocket Guide to the Basset Hound,” as well as a Judges Education CD. Other informational materials are available for interested individuals or breeders who wish to learn more about this fascinating breed through Basset Hound University.

The post Why Unique? The Basset Hound appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Thoughts on the Basset Hound: Today and Yesterday

I have been honored to judge the Basset Hound Club of America nationals several times, and have been made a Basset Hound Club of America life member for my work in helping to revise the Basset Hound Illustrated Standard as well as chairing the Judge’s Education Committee for a number of years. I believe that the exhibitors of today are much better at presenting a clean, well-groomed Basset Hound than they were when I first began showing Bassets back in 1962. In any case, there is no excuse for bringing a dirty dog into the ring. Any judge will appreciate a hound with a clean coat and teeth, and properly trimmed toenails. The real hazard in judging the Basset is that they have been known to shake their head and sling their slobber.

Unfortunately, once in a while it lands on an unsuspecting judge or bystander. When assessing a Basset Hound, I like to watch each Basset as it enters the ring, and stand back and look the dog over as he or she is stacked with the other entries as well as when they are stacked individually on the ramp. Is the dog balanced front and rear? Does he possess all the characteristics consistent with “breed type” as described in the standard, “a short-legged dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed…?” There is a great deal of wordage in the standard to describe the Basset’s beautiful, large, distinctive head. Much of the description has to do with preserving breed type. The head should be of moderate width—not narrow or broad. The prominent occiput, the extremely long, low-set ears, and the dark, sad, slightly sunken eyes describe the breed.

The third eyelid should be visible, but the eye should not have a droopy, protruding eyelid that would be nothing more than a scoop shovel for collecting debris when working in the field. Although the Basset Hound does have loose skin over the head and body, the standard does not call for superabundant amounts of loose skin or extremely heavy bone. There should never be as much loose skin as in the Bloodhound. The description of the head is very specific and is not difficult to learn; the standard just needs to be studied. The Basset should have a scissors bite, but an even bite is acceptable. In the last few years, a big improvement for the comfort of both exhibitor and judge has been greatly facilitated by the use of a ramp. In raising the dogs off the ground and placing them at a higher level, a judge may better see and evaluate the breed.

Thankfully, I no longer see judges leaning on a Basset’s back, to assist themselves with standing up after going over the dog! The ramp is also valuable at outdoor shows for the times when the grass covers the Basset’s feet or legs. Consider the fact that the Basset’s leg is only to be one-third their total height at the withers. Therefore, a Basset that is the proper height of fourteen inches at the withers would have front legs that would only be a little less than five inches to the deepest point of the chest. Even if a Basset were at the height limit of 15 inches at the withers, he still would have front legs that were only five inches to the deepest point of the chest. An inch or two of grass covering the feet and legs could throw off the whole balance. In judging the Basset Hound, special attention should be paid to the forequarters, as this is where most of his weight is borne. The standard describes a hound that “…possesses in marked degree those characteristics which equip it admirably to follow a trail over and through difficult terrain.” In order to do this, he must have a good front.

The correct front of a Basset is probably the most difficult to breed and also difficult for a judge to understand, if not familiar with an achondroplastic breed’s structure. The Basset shoulder blade is set-on at a 45-degree angle to the ground with 90 degrees separating the shoulder blade and upper arm. He should have a prominent sternum, with the elbows close to the side of the chest. The front legs cradle the chest and wrap around it (the “wraparound” front), but they must still leave about a “hand’s width” of space between the front legs. Both feet are “…inclined equally a trifle outward…” If the elbows are not close to the side of the chest, the Basset will be out at the elbow and/or wide in front, or both. If the shoulder is placed too far forward, the Basset will probably have no neck, and the desired sternum will be hiding behind the whole shoulder assembly. Length of neck helps him get his nose to the ground and is also a beautiful sight to see on any Basset. Basset Hounds should be approximately twice as long as tall. I hope that the length of body is due to a nice, long, deep ribcage and not just from a long loin.

The rib cage needs to be somewhat wide and deep, and oval in shape to house his heart and lungs in order that he can do the job he was bred to do. A long loin will not hold up over time. Praise God if he has a straight topline! A Basset Hound’s rear should not be slack, but nice and round instead, and about as wide as his shoulders, with a good bend of stifle. Generally, his hind legs appear to be not as heavy in bone as the front legs, but this is mostly due to the fact that they don’t have as much loose skin as the front legs. In moving, his hind legs should have strong drive and be in perfect coordination with the front legs, and move in a straight line with the front. In spite of his short legs, he must move in a free manner with the strength and determination of an athlete. When he enters the ring, I would hope that he would exhibit this quality, and knowing that there are no rabbits in his ring at that moment, he would hold his head up proudly as he circles the ring—instead of following his natural instinct to put his nose to the floor.

“His tail is set-on with a slight upward curve. I have been seeing the unfortunate reoccurrence of some sickle tails and flanged ribs lately, which I hope the breeders will be quick to remedy. In looking back at more than a half a century of breeding and exhibiting Basset Hounds, I have had the experience of handling many of my own Fort Merrill Bassets to their championships under a variety of judges. Over a hundred Bassets carrying the Fort Merrill prefix have finished their championships. Some were campaigned under the expert hands of professional Basset Hound handlers Bryan Martin and Pat Willer. Several were ranked among the Top Hounds of the Year. CH Fort Merrill Great Gatsby (Bomber) won 78 Group placements, 24 of which were Group Firsts. Then, after winning two all-breed Bests in Show in the US, he went on to Japan to become the top-winning dog, all-breed, in Japan in 2001. The record of CH Fort Merrill Lipz Stick (Stix) remained as the top specialty-winning bitch, from 1992 until 2014, winning three all-breed Bests in Show with 93 Group placements.

These two Bassets were campaigned by Bryan Martin. CH Fort Merrill Man In Black (Manny) was shown by Pat Willer, and garnered one Best in Show with 25 Group Placements, nine of which were Group Firsts. GCH Fort Merrill Topsfield Yahoo (Yahoo) was also shown by Bryan Martin, and won two Bests in Show with 22 Group Firsts. Yahoo was co-owned by Claudia Orlandi and Kitty Stidel for his show campaign. Currently, the top Basset Hound in my kennel is a son of Bomber by the name of GCH Fort Merrill Brunswick (Brunswick). He has been campaigned sparingly under the able hands of my friend and kennel manager, Aaron Costilla, whom I am proud to say took Brunswick to Best of Breed at our national specialty last November. There are two types of judges, the specialist judge and the multi-breed judge. Probably no judge can know every breed perfectly, but I would hope that all judges would be intimately familiar with the standard of the breeds they judge. They must keep up with all revised Breed Standards and know everything about the makeup of each breed they judge. I know that all judges look for each dog’s best qualities first, but I have put together a quick list of Basset Hound faults and how the standard weighs them, just to help with the decision.

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Interview with Dr. Claudia Orlandi of Topsfield Basset Hounds

Where did you grow up?

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: I was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, but spent my younger years on a large country property in Harwinton, Connecticut, where my life revolved around horses and dogs. At the age of 12 I joined an excellent 4-H horse club and was greatly influenced by our leader’s belief in hard work, commitment, and achieving excellence. Along with mastering horsemanship and learning stable management, our written tests and oral presentations on equine structure and movement not only helped develop my eye for a horse (and later, a dog) but also set standards that would shape my future as a dog breeder and educator.

Do you come from a doggie family? If not, how did your interest in breeding and showing purebred dogs begin?

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Although we always had Poodles, when I was 14 years old my father, Edmund Waller, wanted to add a pet Saint Bernard to our family. We subsequently arranged to purchase a puppy from Betty Roberts’ Shagg-Bark Kennels in Tolland, Connecticut. The day we arrived at the kennel, Betty was not feeling well and asked her husband to take us to see the puppies. As luck would have it, the wooden barrier separating the pets from the show-quality prospects fell down, and the entire litter was running together. We picked out a gregarious male with good bone and a gorgeous head and named our newest family member Bowser Waller.

Early on, there was an eye-catching balance and something special about our puppy that spurred me to learn everything I could about Saint Bernards. I was familiar with equine structure, angulation, and movement, and after studying the AKC standard along with photos of top-winning Saints, I believed Bowser was quite beautiful. With my family’s encouragement, I took handling classes and started entering dog shows where I enjoyed success in the breed ring and as a junior handler.

These experiences led to my lifelong love of the dog fancy. When I went away to boarding school, we gave Bowser back to Betty where he ended up becoming a multiple Best in Show-winning dog, handled by Bob Forsyth. He was indeed one of the best Saints she had ever bred and I have often wondered what would have become of my life if that barrier between the pet- and show-quality puppies had not fallen down!

Who were your mentors in the sport? Please comment on their influence.

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: After falling in love with a Basset Hound at a horse show in 1985, my husband, Dom, and I purchased Salmon Brook Sweet Emma from Michele Maulucci’s Salmon Brook Kennel in Vermont. Although she worked with show bloodlines, Michele’s passion was pack hunting. Emma, who proved to have a good nose, soon formed part of the Salmon Brook pack along with several other Bassets we subsequently purchased from the Timber Ridge pack of Maryland. Michele mentored us in the fabulous world of the hunting Basset until she and her hounds relocated to Maine in the early 1990s at which point we decided to breed Basset Hounds for the show ring. We had just retired a record-breaking Morgan English Pleasure horse from the show circuit and this, combined with our prior dog show experience, eased our transition into the world of conformation Basset Hounds.

The established breeders with whom we wished to work not only offered us access to their valuable bloodlines but also their ongoing support. These early mentors included Eric and Erica George (Strathalbyn Bassets), Penny and Randy Frederiksen (Ambrican Basset Hounds), Jinny and Frank Kovalic (Stoneybluff Bassets), and Pat and Ted Ellis (Bone-A-Part Basset Hounds). In addition to providing advice and pedigree histories, they introduced us to other important breeders with whom we would later work, including Claire “Kitty” Steidel (Sanchu Basset Hounds), who would become a valued partner and co-breeder.

Joy Brewster, a prominent professional handler who had shown for Eric George, also became an early influential mentor. For several years I was her part-time assistant at shows, and in addition to teaching me how to present a Basset Hound, she taught me the ins and outs of the dog show world. Joy had a balanced take on winning and losing, and one particular weekend after I experienced an especially disappointing loss, she said, “Claudia, everybody deserves their day in the sun.”

It was a gracious comment about that day’s winner and a lesson in good sportsmanship. I still remember it and have often repeated this phrase to others. Joy’s strict rules and attention to detail were reminiscent of the high standards of my 4-H horse club and working with her contributed greatly to my success as a breeder.

The Topsfield Bassets are widely known, highly successful and well respected. What breeding philosophies do you adhere to?

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Our highest priority is health, followed by breeding Basset Hounds that conform to the breed standard and are capable of performing their original function, which is to follow the scent of rabbit and hare. I can’t overstate how strongly I feel a dog breeding program can benefit from not only having an eye for a dog and avoiding kennel blindness but also understanding genetic principles, which includes knowledge of how genes pass from parent to offspring, breeding systems, the pedigree, and selection. We began working with three bloodlines and from these lines determined the dogs with the best breeding values based on phenotypic selection. Our aim over time was to create and maintain two or three distinct family lines within the Topsfield program. This approach avoided breeding ourselves into a corner if a particular bloodline did not nick or produced a health problem.

Breeding success begins with having a clear picture in mind of the dog you are trying to produce. Our ideal Basset Hound is a correctly proportioned and angled dog whose individual parts fit together seamlessly, setting the stage for smooth, powerful, effortless movement as called for in the standard.

Having visualized our ideal, our goal was to bring this picture to life using a palette of bloodlines. Given the importance placed on movement in our breed, an ongoing challenge is producing Basset Hounds with angles that approach 90 degrees between shoulder blade and upper arm, and 90 degrees between pelvis and upper thigh and upper and lower thigh. Because a dog’s phenotype provides reliable clues to the genes it carries for a trait, to improve angulation we focused on mating together animals with good health status in which, importantly, both front and rear angulation came as close as possible to 90 degrees.

It bears repeating that health has been and continues to be our highest priority, followed by selecting for whatever trait(s) we are attempting to improve. Our best results came from loose linebreeding and outcrossing because it gave us more time to observe how our bloodline combinations were progressing and allowed us to change direction when necessary.

As we moved forward, we worked with a number of bloodlines, from time to time discovering wonderful nicks, while other matings simply did not work. Our program continues to employ light linebreeding and outcrossing and still adheres to maintaining individual family lines. To improve genetic variation and lower the risks of producing disease as well as effects of inbreeding depression, we do not inbreed. In controlling genetic defects, honesty about health problems has been a cornerstone of our breeding philosophy.

Tell us about your current facilities and how the dogs are maintained.

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Ours is an informal hobby kennel on 200 acres in northern Vermont. We can comfortably house approximately 40 Basset Hounds. The dogs have 24/7 access to long outside runs, which provide good exercise. A training room with a ramp and mirror is used for preparing the show dogs.

To assess hunting potential, at 10 weeks of age puppies are started in the bunny barn, where two rabbits live and run freely. Cinder blocks and a configuration of tree trunks provide shelter and hiding spaces. The bunny barn allows us to assess a pup’s interest in rabbits as well as its tendency to give voice and put nose to ground. Because they usually see rabbits at some point during this exercise we only bring them to the barn two or three times to avoid dependence on sight chasing.

After bunny barn training, puppies are worked in a small outdoor pen where we can begin to more fully evaluate their ability to follow a line as well as their insistence and searching capabilities. We gradually move to a slightly larger pen and finally to a 6-acre field. Retired Bassets and those not kept for breeding are placed in loving pet homes. Sue Frischmann (show manager/handler), Linda Panella (kennel manager), and Candy Carswell (handler) have all been with me for close to 30 years and we would not have enjoyed the success we have had without their hard work, talent, and loyalty.

Who were/are some of your most significant dogs, both in the whelping box and in the show ring?

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Topsfield has produced over 180 champions and has won over 140 Bests in Show and more than 500 Group Firsts. They have been Number One All-Breed Basset Hound for 17 out of the last 21 years and hold a number of breed records. Ch. Topsfield Bumper Cars CD, ROM, winner of 45 Bests in Show, is the top Group-winning Basset Hound in breed history with 250 Group Firsts. He was Number One Hound All Breeds in 2001 and Number Two Hound All Breeds in 2002.

Ch. Topsfield Beethoven was Number One Basset Hound in 2005 and 2006 All Systems and Number 2 All-Breed Hound; he was Number 11 All-Breed Dog in 2006 as well as the Purina Hound Show Dog of the Year.

Beethoven’s daughter, Ch. Topsfield-Vision Silver Noodles CD BN RA NAP NJP CGC TDI, bred by Nancy Richmond, Lisa Brackett, Anne Testoni, and Bjorn Zetterlund, is the top-winning bitch in breed history.

All of these foregoing dogs were expertly handled by Bryan Martin. Ch. Topsfield Bumper Cars, Ch. Topsfield Sanchu Pop Art O’Bridi, Ch. Topsfield Sanchu Eenie Meeny Miny Moe, Ch. Topsfield Sanchu Poppycock, and Ch. Jollytime My Way At Topsfield are BHCA Best of Breed National Specialty winners. Ch. Topsfield-Sanchu King of Queens and Ch. Topsfield Sanchu Cannoli were sent to Chris Lawrence’s Beauchasseur Kennels in Australia and they and their get have had great success in that country.

In the whelping box, Ch. Topsfield Jingle Bells, ROM, is the top-producing Basset Hound dam in breed history with 21 titled offspring. With regard to our most influential stud dog, no one Topsfield male takes top billing in this category since we have strived not to over-use any one particular dog. We have always avoided what may be called a “popular sire,” whose potential to pass on hidden recessive genes for genetic defects can be detrimental not only to a breeding program but to a breed population as a whole.

Please comment on your breed’s present condition and what trends might bear watching?

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Relatively speaking, the Basset Hound is quite healthy compared to other breeds and overall health has perhaps even improved in past years, thanks to the availability of DNA tests for a broader range of diseases as well as a greater openness and honesty about health problems. Having knowledge of carriers and dogs affected with a genetic defect is the most important step in being able to successfully control disease in a breeding program.

On the conformation side of things, many important and influential breeders have passed away in the last 10 to 15 years, resulting in fewer dogs being produced for the show ring. Focusing on the overall breed type (correctness) of the Basset Hounds we are currently producing and showing remains an even higher priority and is more important than ever before.

The sport has changed greatly since you first began as a breeder-exhibitor. What are your thoughts on the state of the fancy and the declining number of breeders? How do we encourage newcomers to join us and remain in the sport?

The decline in breeders is certainly discouraging. I have always felt that education is a key to attracting newcomers and many good courses are available on AKC’s Canine College website. Successfully breeding healthy purebred dogs requires: (1) a working knowledge of genetics; (2) avoiding kennel blindness; and (3) having an eye for a dog, which involves understanding principles of anatomy and movement. Learning genetics is a step-by-step process and the average breeder is best served by following a systematic course of study.

Anyone can apply rules of genetics in a breeding program, and although some scientists disdain simplification, making genetics easy-to-understand has proven to be the most successful approach for the lay person dedicated to breeding dogs. Similar to learning our ABCs before we can read and write, a dog breeder first needs a practical knowledge of how genes are passed from parent to offspring in order to better understand breeding systems (inbreeding/linebreeding and outcrossing), the pedigree, and the selection process. Because it increases confidence, pride, and a sense of accomplishment, breeder education programs that award a Certificate of Achievement upon fulfilling course requirements are more likely to encourage participation on the part of newcomers.

Where do you see your breeding program in the next decade or two?

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Following the death of my first spouse in 2007, I married my now husband, Guillermo, 10 years ago. Guillermo has bred hunting Bassets in Spain under the Lebrera prefix for over 50 years, and since our marriage, we have focused on breeding the dual champion Basset Hound, which is one that has earned a championship title in both conformation and field trial competition. Topsfield’s foundation bloodlines originated from hunting stock and Guillermo and I believe strongly in the importance of maintaining a breed’s original purpose. Our focus going forward is to keep meeting the worthwhile challenge of breeding champion Basset Hounds for the bench and field.

Finally, tell us a little about Claudia outside of dogs… your profession, your hobbies.

Dr. Claudia Orlandi: Upon earning an MA and PhD in Spanish in the mid-1970s, I began course work toward a second PhD, this time in psychology at the University of Vermont. Although commitments to my family’s business curtailed plans for completing another doctoral degree, my studies in experimental psychology and the sciences furthered my interest in genetics.

For over 50 years, my family’s FoodScience Corporation, which oversees Vetri-Science and DaVinci Laboratories of Vermont, has been a pioneer in the field of preventive medicine through researching and formulating nutritional supplements for veterinarians and physicians. Although I sold the company in 2021, my experience in the field of canine preventive health and a love of academics and teaching continue to improve my life as a breeder. My husband’s and my life revolves around our dogs but we also enjoy hunting wild boar and fox in Guillermo’s native Spain, in addition to traveling, antiquing, reading, and going to the movies!

The post Interview with Dr. Claudia Orlandi – Topsfield Basset Hounds appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Interview with Jana Pašková, Breeder of Grand Grades

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

I live in the center of Europe, in the Czech Republic. The Basset Hound breed has accompanied me in my life for 35 years. This year marks 22 years since the birth of the first puppies in my kennel.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

My kennel is called Grand Grades. I now have six bitches, and that’s my maximum. I will never have more. Two of them are older and resting, two are still young, and two are of reproductive age. All bitches are from my breeding; the two young ones are already sixth generation Grand Grades. All of my bitches are loved and are members of my family. I don’t keep male dogs and I don’t even think about it.

Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?

At World Shows, two of my females have been Class Winners in the past; “Ginny” and her daughter, “Janette.” All bitches on my property are multi-champions. Janette is perhaps the best of my bitches, for her fantastic movement.

Which have been my most influential sires and dams?

My third generation bitch, C.I.B., C.I.E, MCH Daya Grand Grades, is in the pedigree of all my current bitches. She was exceptional for me, and my breeding is based on her.

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

All of my dogs live with me in my house where they have one room only for themselves, but they often move elsewhere in the house (on couches). The box with the puppies is in my bedroom until they are about three weeks old. Then the puppies get a bigger playpen, and when the weather is nice, they are also outside during the day. I devote all the time I have to my puppies. All puppies of my breeding are excellently socialized before going to their new homes.

What is my “process” for selecting Show Puppies? Performance Puppies?

Everything starts with choosing a suitable male for my bitch. I have been planning for a long time, and I often go abroad with my bitch for mating. I carefully study pedigrees and search the Internet for information about individuals in the family tree that I do not know. I usually choose a male that I know personally. I know his parents and offspring, and he is close in type, exterior, and character to what I imagine as an ideal. And health tests are also very important to me. Choosing a puppy for exhibition and breeding is not difficult for me. I will only sell puppies to breeders that I would keep for my own breeding.

Do I compete in Companion Events? Performance Events?

All bitches in my breeding have hunting titles. Most of them are also with a CACT working title. One of the females is a Working Champion. This year, I would like to complete this degree with Janette. (She must have 3x CACT; she has 2x so far.)

Is “performance” part of my decision-making when it comes to breeding?

Yes, I consider verification of hunting characteristics important. It is not, however, my strict condition for using a male for breeding. I work with my bitches for fun. I enjoy it and they are excited too. Together we will pass the tests to verify hunting characteristics, but in practice, I do not use my bitches for hunting.

How would I define “conditioning” as it relates to my breed?

The Basset Hound must not be too heavy, must not have a large amount of loose skin, and must move easily. In Europe, it is sometimes possible to see these too-heavy individuals. The Basset Hound is originally a hunting breed. It must look so that it can move easily in the field.

Are there any health-related concerns in my breed? Any special nutritional needs?

Puppies are very demanding on proper nutrition for correct growth and development. Bad and unbalanced feeding can cause serious growth problems, especially in the front limbs. It is necessary to watch over a puppy carefully during its growth, and above all, not to burden it too much with long walks, climbing stairs, and jumping from a height. Some Bassets may be prone to skin problems.

Some genetic diseases must also be monitored in Bassets. These are, for example, POAG, Lafora, thrombopathy, MPS1, and others.

Do I think my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

In Europe, the Basset Hound is not among the most popular of breeds. Rather, it is one of the less popular dog breeds. The population is sufficiently diverse, however, due to the cooperation of the best breeders from different states.

Is my breed well suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

The Basset Hound is the best family dog. They love everyone, including small children, and are never aggressive towards people or other animals.

What is the biggest misconception about my breed? What is my breed’s best-kept secret?

A lot of people think that the Basset Hound is a fat, lazy, and somewhat stupid dog that wants to spend its life on the couch. It’s not true. The Basset is a dog with a big heart full of love, and is a gentle and calm companion. But the Basset can also handle active walks, hunting, and other activities that their owners invent for them.

If I could share a comment or two with judges of my breed, what would I like to say to them?

World and European shows are usually judged by specialist judges who know our breed perfectly. Sometimes, at some international exhibitions, judges judge for all breeds, where it is very clear that they have not read the Breed Standard for our breed in a long time and cannot judge it well. My message is: “Hey, read the Standard; the Standard has changed in recent years.“

Do I have any words of wisdom to pass along to newer breeders?

The breeder must have his own breeding goal towards which he is aiming. He must strive to ensure that each next generation of his breeding is of the same quality or better than the previous one. They have to study pedigrees, look for information, and think about mating breeding pairs. In addition to the exterior, you also need to watch the character (aggression or timidity), and the most important thing is to monitor the health of our breed.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Hound?

My life with Bassets is one big fun. They try to look dignified, but they are clowns. Dignity disappears the moment they see anything that can be eaten or smell anything foul-smelling that they can lie down in.

Are you looking for a Basset Hound puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder?

Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Basset Hound dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Basset Hound Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the Basset Hound dog breed with articles and information in our Basset Hound Breed Magazine.

If you enjoy the Basset Hound Breed Magazine, help us educate the community by sharing it.

The post Grand Grades | Jana Pašková appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Interview with Matt Hess, Breeder of Bedrock Bassets

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Matt Hess: I live in Versailles, Indiana. I have been in dogs for 30 years, 25 years as a breeder.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

Matt Hess: My kennel name is Bedrock Bassets. I currently keep four dogs.

Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?

Matt Hess: GCH Clanwillows Centenary Pride (Eddie) and Lussy Grand Grades (Gradey) have been my noteworthy winners. Both were handled by me, but bred by two different breeders.

Which have been my most influential sires and dams?

Matt Hess: My most influential dam has been Bedrocks Yaba Daba Doo. She was the foundation of my Basset Hounds and has since produced a couple champions in the show ring, and her offspring are now producing champions.

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Matt Hess: I have a 12-kennel run that is heated and cooled. The runs are 8 ft. wide by 30 ft. long. I hire someone to whelp my puppies because I am on the road showing almost every weekend. They raise the puppies indoors in their whelping room.

What is my “process” for selecting Show Puppies? Performance Puppies?

Matt Hess: I wait until puppies are 6 weeks of age. I begin to look for personalities at this age. I then begin to look at overall conformation at 8 weeks of age. By 12 weeks of age, I can determine which ones will have the personalities along with the conformation for the ring. I look for solid toplines, good tail sets, nice wrap-arounds in the front along with solid fronts, nice sternum, angulation, and length of ear along with ear set. Heads have parallel plains and the muzzle is in proportion as well. Shoulders are also important, so I make sure that they have the correct shoulder set.

Do I compete in Companion Events? Performance Events?

Matt Hess: I compete in Conformation only.

Is “performance” part of my decision-making when it comes to breeding?

Matt Hess: Only the Breed Standard is in mind when breeding; the Standard for the conformation ring. I always keep in mind: “Can the dog do what it is bred to do?”

How would I define “conditioning” as it relates to my breed?

Matt Hess: This is important when showing a dog in Conformation. You want to make sure that your dog is looking its best when it is performing in the ring. The physical look and emotional performance mean a lot. You want a dog that has a nice coat and is groomed properly. You want the dog to be toned, with well-developed muscling, not flabby or with excess skin. The dog can make it around the ring while proudly presenting itself with the head held high. Food plays a big role in conditioning as well. You want to make sure that they are getting the proper nutrition and that the food is providing enough vitamins to keep the coat healthy and vibrant.

Are there any health-related concerns in my breed? Any special nutritional needs?

Matt Hess: The biggest health concern in Basset Hounds would be their eyes and the Lafora testing. They can develop cataracts and they can also carry a gene called Lafora. This is basically epilepsy. There are no special nutritional needs necessarily.

Do I think my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

Matt Hess: I feel the breed doesn’t have enough preservation breeders. We have a few larger kennels in the breed that have produced nice quality dogs in the past but haven’t produced as much recently, though they do continue to produce top dogs. I feel we need more options in the gene pool to continue the quality of the Basset.

Is my breed well suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

Matt Hess: Yes, the Basset Hound is a loving and loyal hound. They do very well in a family setting with children. They are loyal and loving companions. Older couples do well with the breed as well because the breed is smaller in stature and is easier to maneuver versus a larger breed.

What is the biggest misconception about my breed? What is my breed’s best-kept secret?

Matt Hess: The biggest misconception is that Bassets are barkers. This actually isn’t always true. The most they bark is when someone pulls up to the kennel or when they are alerted by a strange animal in their area. Most people think they smell, but the best-kept secret is that it is possible to keep the yeast out of the wrinkles if properly cared for.

If I could share a comment or two with judges of my breed, what would I like to say to them?

Matt Hess: Please keep in mind that these are dogs that are supposed to have sternum and they have a height standard. The Basset is supposed to be a hunter and is low to the ground. They have to be able to break through the brush to get to the rabbit. They need sternum to help break through the rubbish and they need the correct length of ear to help gather the scent.

Do I have any words of wisdom to pass along to newer breeders?

Matt Hess: Align yourself with someone who has been in the breed for many years and who has produced top-quality dogs. They will help you go further with your breeding program and help you succeed.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Hound?

Matt Hess: When one of the Bassets bays, they all bay together. You then have an orchestra—ha ha!

Are you looking for a Basset Hound puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder?

Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Basset Hound dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Basset Hound Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the Basset Hound dog breed with articles and information in our Basset Hound Breed Magazine.

If you enjoy the Basset Hound Breed Magazine, help us educate the community by sharing it.

The post Matt Hess | Bedrock Bassets appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Interview with Kaylynn Finke, Breeder of Northwind Basset Hounds

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Kaylynn Finke: We are located in Jackson, Tennessee. We are fairly new to the Basset Hound community. David has been showing Bassets for about four years and Kaylynn got involved about two years ago. David had his first litter of Basset Hounds two years ago.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

Kaylynn Finke: Our kennel name is Northwind Basset Hounds. We currently have three Basset Hounds.

Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?

Kaylynn Finke: David got his start in the Basset Hound show community with his first Basset Hound, GCH Northwind’s Merry Mabeline of the Ozarks (Mabel). He had some luck with her in the show ring and she mothered his first litter of Basset Hounds. From that first litter, we kept one puppy, Northwind’s Dixieland Delight.

Shortly after Mabel’s first litter went to their homes, we imported MBISS GCHS Lussy Grand Grades (Gradey). We have had great luck with Gradey, and she is currently the No. 1 Breed Basset Hound and the No. 2 All-Breed Basset Hound in the AKC (4/5/23). We have been extremely lucky and blessed to have had such success so early on in our Basset Hound involvement.

Which have been my most influential sires and dams?

Kaylynn Finke: We feel that Gradey will be a great dam for our breeding program. We feel her structure and temperament are excellent. We are so excited to see the puppies that she produces. We love Mabel. She’s David’s heart dog and she’s done great. She is only two points from her GCHB. But after showing her, David could see her faults and was looking to improve on them. Our hope one day is to be able to get her and Gradey’s lines in a litter of pups. After Mabel finished her Grand Championship, the show bug bit David and he wasn’t ready to stop showing. So, he started searching for his next pup. With the guidance of our handler, friend, and mentor, Matt Hess, we started looking.

David’s name was on a couple of waiting lists, but they didn’t pan out. Then he found Jana (Jana Paskova, Grand Grades Kennel, in the Czech Republic) and she had a litter out of Dream Chaser Bohemia Horrido (Eva and Iva Cernohubova) and her “Helen.” Chaser is a son of “Monkey,” MBIS MBISS GCHP BY-U-CAL’S MONKEY ON THE BAYOU, a legendary Basset in the US. The puppies looked great. They had the bone we were looking for and straight fronts, and he knew that that was the litter. Jana was great. David asked her about several of the girls and she said that “Lussy” (now Gradey) was what we needed for the US. (She was afraid the others might be too much for the States.)

Now she’s ours and doing better than we ever expected. I hope we’ve made Jana, Iva, Eva, and Sharon Calhoun (Monkey’s “mom”) proud.

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Kaylynn Finke: Our puppies are whelped and raised in our homes with us. We like to be extremely involved and keep a constant eye on them, so this allows for that. Kaylynn works as a Canine Trainer and Behaviorist. She is very knowledgeable in puppy development and life stages. She helps with puppy socialization, desensitization, exposure, and training. We raise our puppies to be confident and well-adjusted adults.

What is my “process” for selecting Show Puppies? Performance Puppies?

Kaylynn Finke: When we are selecting show puppies from our litters, we keep them till around 9-12 weeks old. At that point, we assess their overall balance. We are looking for good bone, a nice straight topline, straight front, strong rear, good rear angles, ear length, and length of body.

Do I compete in Companion Events? Performance Events?

Kaylynn Finke: We now feel that we have found our footing in the Conformation ring and are starting to expand into Performance Events. We have started training Dixie and Mabel in Scent Work and Tracking. We hope to enter them in Scent Work Trials and Tracking at the upcoming Basset Hound National Specialty in August. Gradey has earned her CGC and FDC. Mabel has earned her CGCA, TDI, and FDC.

Is “performance” part of my decision-making when it comes to breeding?

Kaylynn Finke: When we pick sires and dams for our breeding program, we base who we choose on what the Basset Hound’s function is. Per the AKC, a Basset Hound should have remarkably heavy bone, powerful legs, massive paws, and the strength and stamina of a big dog. These characteristics help them in the field when tirelessly following the scent of rabbits. They are scenthounds that use their long, velvety ears to help brush up and funnel scent to their nose. These are all qualities that we take into account when we select a breeding pair.

How would I define “conditioning” as it relates to my breed?

Kaylynn Finke: Conditioning for a Basset Hound can be a little tricky because they are a true dwarf breed. Due to being a dwarf breed, Bassets cannot participate in rigorous, repetitive exercise. Instead, they are able to participate in activities such as going for walks, tracking/hunting in the woods, and even swimming.

Are there any health-related concerns in my breed? Any special nutritional needs?

Kaylynn Finke: There are a few genetic health concerns that are currently prevalent in Basset Hound bloodlines.

These genetic disorders are:

• POAG
• Lafora
• MPS1
• Thrombopathia

Other health needs that we pay close attention to are joint, back, and skin health. Since Basset Hounds are a dwarf breed, we make sure to take exceptional care of their joint health. We keep our Bassets on a daily joint support supplement.

Also, with Basset Hounds being a long-backed breed, we have to pay extra attention to their weight. By keeping them at a healthy weight, you help to keep their backs strong and healthy. Lastly, as many can see, Basset Hounds have many wrinkles and lots of extra skin. Due to this, they are at a higher risk for yeast build-up and skin issues. We keep our Bassets on a daily skin support supplement and regularly bathe them.

Do I think my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

Kaylynn Finke: While David and I are still very new to the Basset Hound community, we do feel that there are a number of good preservation breeders. That being said, they are a very close group of people and it can be a little hard to get into the group as an outsider. And because this community is so close-knit, it can sometimes be hard as a newcomer to purchase and show a good show-quality Basset Hound without a contact to help. It can be a little intimidating to start, but now that we are showing and meeting people, we see how amazing everyone really is.

A group of us are in the process of starting a Basset Hound Club in the Mid-South (Mid-South Basset Hound Club). Our goal for this club is to be very inclusive and help educate the general public about the amazing Basset Hound breed and what they are capable of doing!

Is my breed well suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

Kaylynn Finke: Basset Hounds make great family dogs. They are lovable and goofy. Basset Hounds have a moderate energy level. While they do not need excessive amounts of exercise, they do need some. They enjoy going for walks and sniffing around the yard with their owners. Training a Basset Hound can be a bit of a challenge because they are a very stubborn breed. A good candidate to own a Basset Hound must be very patient when training them. They will need to be okay with giving their Basset weekly baths and paying close attention to their back and joint health. It can be a lot of work owning a Basset Hound, but their lovable personalities make it all worth the work.

What is the biggest misconception about my breed? What is my breed’s best-kept secret?

Kaylynn Finke: The biggest misconception that I have seen about Basset Hounds is that they are fat, lazy dogs. Yes, they have lower energy levels than your Sporting breeds, for example, but they are not lazy. All of the Bassets that I own and have encountered love activity and sport. Their sports may look a little different than other dog sports, but they still have a drive to do them. Scent Work, Hunting, and Tracking take a huge amount of energy for a dog to accomplish successfully. My personal Basset is so determined to keep up with my other large-breed dogs that she wrestles with and chases them daily. Heck, I have even seen Basset Hounds participate in Agility!

If I could share a comment or two with judges of my breed, what would I like to say to them?

Kaylynn Finke: We would like to thank all of the judges who have shown Gradey so much love and success. We are incredibly proud of her and all of her achievements. Those achievements would not be possible without these judges. Their recognition of her means more to us than they could ever know.

Do I have any words of wisdom to pass along to newer breeders?

Kaylynn Finke: Like I have said, David and I are still very new at all of this, but from our experience, we encourage newer breeders to do their research and be persistent. We recommend that you attend as many shows as you can. If you can find one, attend a specialty show. Pick out the dogs and bitches that you really like, then try and talk to their owner or handler. If you are able, purchase a catalogue to look them up and you can contact them that way. If you really like one, be persistent. You may have to meet with them a few times to convince them that you are serious and to prove that you are interested.

We strongly encourage you to NEVER purchase off the Internet. Always do your research on the breeder and their puppies. Look up show pictures and pedigrees. You shouldn’t just be looking at the puppies’ parents, you should look several generations back. You must also insist on genetic health testing. Like we’ve said before, there are some genetic health disorders in this breed and you want to make sure that you know the genetics of the puppy you are purchasing. Most of all, get a mentor! Guidance and advice from someone experienced in the breed is invaluable.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Hound?

Kaylynn Finke: “Dixie” (Northwind’s Dixieland Delight) goes to work with Kaylynn pretty much every day. She attends daycare and helps Kaylynn with the training of the other dogs at the resort where she works. In daycare and when interacting with the other dogs, Dixie is determined not to be outdone or left behind by the big dogs. You can always find Dixie wrestling with the German Shepherd Dogs or chasing down a German Shorthaired Pointer. Her strong will, however, can sometimes backfire on her in funny ways.

There was one day when Dixie was determined to chase down a Golden Retriever at daycare. The retriever cut a sharp corner and went through a fenced gate opening. Dixie was not going to fall behind, and so she took a quick turn as well. The only problem was that Dixie turned a little too soon and ran directly into the fence. She bounced off the fence and flew backwards. She quickly got up, shook her head, and kept on truckin’. (We would have been concerned about her vision had Kaylynn not just brought her to the ophthalmologist the day before this took place.) It was probably the funniest experience that we have ever had with one of our hounds!

Are you looking for a Basset Hound puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder?

Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Basset Hound dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Basset Hound Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the Basset Hound dog breed with articles and information in our Basset Hound Breed Magazine.

If you enjoy the Basset Hound Breed Magazine, help us educate the community by sharing it.

The post Kaylynn Finke | Northwind Basset Hounds appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

Interview with Claudio Da Cruz Conceicao, Handler of Lake Park Bassets, by Allan Reznik

Where did you grow up?

I am 47 years old, and I was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I have lived for two years in the USA, in North Carolina.

Do you come from a doggy family? If not, how did the interest in breeding and showing purebred dogs begin.

No, I do not come from a family of dog breeders or exhibitors. This passion started naturally when I was very young. I had always liked dogs. I started working and learning with obedience dogs. Eventually, I got to know the world of show dogs and I am still in it today.

Who were your mentors in the sport? Please elaborate on their influence.

I always had good people by my side. As a professional handler of all breeds, I had Sr. Divoney Rasera. With Basset Hounds, I was lucky enough to have one of the best breeders and handlers to learn from, Sr. Jorge Algusto Dias of Park Melody Kennels. I also worked for 13 years with breeder Tatiana Pagliane of Canil Brave Basset Hounds. I showed her Bassets and it served as a great learning experience.

What breeding philosophies do you adhere to?

The first thing I prioritize is good health. I always try to study pedigrees and genetic issues, as well as correct breed type.

How many Bassets do you currently house? Tell us about your facilities and how the dogs are maintained.

Today, I live in North Carolina with my wife, Dr. Lisa Sarvas, a veterinarian and a breeder of Miniature Schnauzers. We have a beautiful kennel with great accommodations and lots of space for the dogs to play. Our priority is the physical and emotional well-being of our dogs. As a professional handler, we have our clients’ dogs here, as well as our own Basset Hounds.

When did you start showing in the USA, and how did that come about?

Although I was living in Brazil, I had been to the USA to show dogs of other breeds at such events as the AKC National, Potomac, and Westminster. My first Basset Hound that I showed in the USA was in 2009 at the AKC National Championship/Eukanuba Cup.

Who were/are some of your most significant dogs, both in the whelping box and in the show ring?

I have been very attached and hugely dedicated to the dogs I showed. I can highlight a list of dogs that stand out a lot, and name a few Basset Hounds in particular, but I respect everything all my other Bassets have done. I’ve been living with Bassets for more than 20 years now.

MBIS MSBIS GCHS BR Lake Park Sullivan (Sullivan)

• 104 Bests in Show in Brazil and the USA
• Holds the all-time BIS Brazilian record for all breeds.
• American Grand Champion Silver
• Brazilian Grand Champion
• No. 1 Basset in Brazil 2015, 2016 & 2019
• “Sullivan” has achieved the greatest number of Bests in Show won in Brazil to date, over all breeds.
• Breeders/Owners: Mr. Leonir Bampi and Mrs. Luciana Bampi

GCH Lomarol Hounds Akila (Chloe)

• Westminster Best of Breed Winner, 2021
• Breeders/Owners: Mrs. Sandra Marques and Mr. Hugo Cuenca

GCH Brave Basset Tracy

• One of the finest females I have ever seen. Perfect movement.
  We won top ranking and some Bests in Show in Brazil.
• Breeder: Tatiana Pagliane
• Owner: Sonia Tacla

MBIS MSBIS GCHS BR Lake Park Ethan

• No. 1 Basset Hound, 2022
• Westminster Best of Breed Winner, 2022
• Only Basset Hound to win Best in Show in 2022 in the USA.
• Breeders: Leonir and Luciana Bampi
• Owners: Claudio Cruz and Lisa Sarvas
• Co-Owners: Matthew Hass and Marcelo Leca

GCH AM, CH ARG, GR BR Park Melody Apache

• 20 Bests in Show
• No. 1 Basset in Brazil
• No. 3 Brazilian-Bred Dog, All Breeds
• Breeder/Owner: Jorge Algusto Dias (In Memoriam)

Please comment positively on your breed’s present condition and what trends might bear watching.

I respect the many breeders and handlers who are involved in the Basset Hound breed. It is not easy to produce special Bassets all the time. There is no such thing as a perfect Basset Hound, and there never will be, but it’s important to look at the whole dog.

I am very fond of the following comments made by a great judge, and try to follow the philosophy expressed:

“Any fool can discover a dog’s faults; it takes a connoisseur to appreciate its virtues. The judge mentality that can really help a breed progress is all positive, having the ability and desire to reward dogs for their virtues while keeping their flaws in perspective. By recognizing dogs with exceptional qualities, judges can contribute to the creation of a breed. Cursing an excellent dog based on a minor flaw is just throwing out the baby with the bath water.”

In the words of the great judge Beatrice Godsol, often quoted by another great judge, Frank Sabella:

“Even the great dogs have faults; they just carry them better.”

One point that does worry me a lot is that I see too few people from the younger generations stepping up to become the breeders and handlers of the future. We need those who love the Basset Hound to also want to breed and show.

Where do you see yourself in the next decade or two?

Now that I am focused on raising my own Basset Hounds, I know the type I want and the kennels I admire. I want to work with their dogs for my breeding program. It’s not an easy mission, but I am always working to try to make beautiful champions.

Finally, tell us a little about Claudio outside of dogs… your occupation, your hobbies.

In addition to the dogs, I have a Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, and have achieved some victories in the martial arts, my favorite hobby. I am always studying, dedicating myself to the canine world, and looking for opinions from important people in our sport. I don’t think anyone does anything alone. I learn from my wife, Dr. Lisa Sarvas, a veterinarian and Miniature Schnauzer breeder, every day. Playing with and enjoying my dogs makes me feel very happy.

Thank you for the opportunity to talk about my passion for Basset Hounds.

Are you looking for a Basset Hound puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder?

Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Basset Hound dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Basset Hound Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the Basset Hound dog breed with articles and information in our Basset Hound Breed Magazine.

If you enjoy the Basset Hound Breed Magazine, help us educate the community by sharing it.

The post Lake Park Bassets | Claudio Da Cruz Conceicao appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

And honestly, folks, that’s all they wrote! There is no list of colors in the AKC Basset Hound Breed Standard, and no fault, serious fault, or disqualifications assigned to color.

In their Encyclopedia of K-9 Terminology, Edward and Patricia Gilbert assert that references to “recognized hound color” as used in the Basset Standard, or “true hound color” as used in the Beagle Standard, refers to “hound color is identified in the English Foxhound Standard as black, white and tan or any combination of these three, or any combination of the various ‘pies’ composed of white and the color of the hare and badger or yellow or tan.”

They go on to say, “Any breed developed in England that uses the term hound color or true hound color is referring to the color of the English Foxhound.”

It’s true that the classic Basset marking most featured in art of Bassets is a blanket tri-color, typically with a black blanket over brown on the body and head, with a white chest, belly and legs/socks. But this is far from the only acceptable color, and some of those colors would go beyond the colors identified in the encyclopedia.

They include Bassets that are almost completely a deep mahogany in color, and Bassets very heavily ticked in black and white with only minimal brown points over the eyes, on their cheeks, and around the base of the tail, with an overall color that is quite reminiscent of a Bluetick Coonhound. And true lemon Basset Hounds, which are fairly rare but correct in color, have only subtle, pale yellow color markings on largely white coats.

Blue Bassets appear from time to time, a dilute form of tri-color. They are rarely seen in the show ring. There is a French breed called the Basset Bleu de Gascone, recognized by the FCI. This is a distinct breed from the Basset Hound and is not a “blue” Basset, despite the name.

Basset Bleu de Gascone are described in the FCI Breed Standard as “entirely mottled (black and white) giving a slate blue effect.” However, this is not a “Blue Basset,” which is a dilute form of tri-colors due to a recessive gene. No hound explicitly accepts a blue dilute coloration, so this is one of the few colors that I would consider as not being a recognized hound color.

Are you looking for a Basset Hound puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder?

Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Basset Hound dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Basset Hound Dog Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the loyal Basset Hound dog breed with articles and information in our Basset Hound Breed Magazine.

If you enjoy the Basset Hound Breed Magazine, help us educate the community by sharing it.

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