About the Basset Hound
Dog lovers all over the world adore the lovable and instantly recognizable Basset Hound. This low-slung and low-key dog might be stubborn at times, but he is always lovely and devoted.
The Basset Hound was developed as a hunting dog with the hare as its natural prey. Nothing makes him happier than placing his nose to the ground and tracking down a scent. He has a deep, loud bark, yet he is normally sociable.
Health problems that drive Basset Hound insurance claims
These are the conditions associated with the breed — the reason insuring a Basset Hound early, before anything is diagnosed and excluded as pre-existing, is the whole game.
Entropion
$300–$1,500
typical treatment
Intervertebral disc disease
a disease of the spine
$2,500–$7,000
typical treatment
Treatment ranges are estimates compiled from veterinary sources (linked below); actual costs vary by region and severity.
Renting with a Basset Hound
Most of our readers rent — and the pet policy decides more than the insurance does. From the apartment communities we track nationwide:
81%
of apartment communities with a stated pet policy allow dogs
~26%
of apartments that publish a dog weight limit would accept a 65 lb adult (median cap: 50 lb)
$30/mo
median pet rent — about $360/year before any vet bill
$300
median one-time pet fee (a similar refundable deposit is common too)
Source: SafeButler apartment community dataset, 23,533 communities with published pet terms, July 2026. Full numbers in our apartment pet fees report.
Two costs stack for apartment dog owners: the building's pet charges, and the vet bills the building's fees do nothing about. Pet insurance addresses the second — and for renters, the liability side of a dog (bites, damage) runs through your renters policy, not your pet policy.
Care and grooming
Dogs with floppy ears are prone to infections. Ask vet about specifically preventive care for their ears.
Regular grooming sessions are essential for the breed's health and happiness. The short hair of the Basset can shed a lot. Shedding can be controlled by brushing the dog with a soft brush or using a shedding tool at least once a week. Grooming is like an all-body massage that enhances his skin and overall health in addition to removing hair that is ready to shed. The Basset's nails should be cut on a regular basis, and a bath every now and again will maintain his coat clean and shining.
Common questions
How much does basset hound insurance cost?
There is no single price — pet insurance premiums depend on your dog's age, your ZIP code, and the coverage you choose, and breed matters because it predicts claims. For the Basset Hound, the conditions to price against are real: intervertebral disc disease treatment alone can run up to $7,000. Comparing quotes for your specific pet takes about a minute and is the only accurate answer.
What health problems do Basset Hounds have?
The breed-associated conditions worth insuring against include Entropion, Intervertebral disc disease. Costs for these range from routine management to four-figure treatment bills, which is why insuring a Basset Hound young — before anything becomes a pre-existing condition — matters more than for a mixed breed.
Can I have a Basset Hound in an apartment?
Usually, but check the pet policy before you fall in love with a floor plan. In our apartment dataset, 81% of communities with a stated policy allow dogs, and among those that publish a weight limit, roughly 26% would accept a 65 lb adult Basset Hound (the median cap is 50 lb). Expect pet rent and a one-time fee on top of your own rent — and note some buildings apply breed restrictions regardless of size.
Does insurance cover my Basset Hound biting someone?
Not pet insurance — that covers your dog's own medical care. Liability for a bite falls to the liability portion of your renters or homeowners policy, and some carriers apply breed exclusions there, so it's worth checking both policies. Our guide to renters insurance and dog bites covers the details.
Before anything is pre-existing
See real prices for your basset hound
Quotes reflect your dog’s age and your ZIP code — compare top pet insurers in about a minute.
Other dog breeds
References
Our articles are intended for informational purposes and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Our articles are not written or reviewed by insurance agents. Consult your policies with your agent or a professional for details regarding terms, conditions, coverage, exclusions, products, services, and programs.
SafeButler Inc. strives to ensure that the information on this site is up to date, but we will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. This site and all materials contained on it are distributed and provided "as is" and "as available" for use. SafeButler.com makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, as to the operation of this site or to the information, content, materials, or products included on this site. You expressly agree that your use of this site is at your sole risk.