Basset Hound Feeding Guide
Published by DosageGuide · Reviewed
How much to feed your Basset Hound, daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originating in France, the Basset Hound is a medium-sized hound breed that currently holds the #40 spot in AKC registrations. Their ears are the longest of any breed, and when pulled forward they extend past the tip of the nose, helping to funnel scent toward the nostrils. The Basset Hound is a member of the Hound Group, dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their tendency toward weight gain during less active periods. An adult Basset Hound needs between 831 and 1196 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult Basset Hound weighing 40 to 65 lb needs about 831 to 1196 kcal a day, around 1019 kcal for a neutered dog at a healthy weight with moderate activity. On a dry food of 380 kcal per cup that is 2.2-3.1 cups daily, roughly 232 to 327 grams, split into two meals; on wet food alone, 3.3-4.8 cans of 250 kcal; on a raw diet, 13-31 oz of food, about 2-3% of body weight. Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by cup, since kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, count treats inside that total rather than on top of it, and keep them under ten per cent of the calories. A Basset Hound that gains or loses weight on these amounts needs a vet's opinion, not simply a different scoop: these figures are a starting point for a healthy dog, and they assume the 12-to-13-year life stage and activity level described below rather than pregnancy, illness or working days.
Two of the conditions this breed is screened for change how it should be fed, and the less common one matters more here because it is the one a general feeding guide never mentions. With obesity, this breed gains easily, so the ration on this page is a starting point to be reduced as soon as the waist disappears; treats count towards it and are the usual reason a careful owner still ends up with a heavy dog. With intervertebral disc disease, every extra pound is leverage on the discs, and in this breed the difference between a lean dog and a heavy one is often the difference between a mobile dog and a surgical one. Neither is a reason to choose a different food off the shelf; both are reasons to weigh the ration rather than estimate it.
A third predisposition worth knowing is ear infections: repeated infections in this breed are usually about ventilation and moisture rather than diet, but recurrent cases without an obvious trigger are among the situations where an elimination diet earns its place. A Basset Hound that never develops any of these still benefits from the same habits, because the habits are simply good feeding practice made specific.
A short coat makes body condition visible, which is the one advantage that matters at feeding time: the waist and the ribs can be seen and felt without parting fur, so the weekly check takes seconds and needs no scale. For a Basset Hound, that is the check worth making weekly.
Males and females of this breed differ enough in size that one ration does not fit both: around 53 lb against 46 lb on average, a gap of 15 per cent. Feeding both from the same scoop overfeeds one and underfeeds the other, and the figures on this page should be read against the dog in front of you rather than against the breed average.
Adult Basset Hounds (40–65 lbs) typically need 0.6 to 1.3 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. A formula suited to medium breeds provides appropriate nutrient density. A moderate daily walk of 30 to 60 minutes is sufficient; they should not be over-exercised as puppies due to their heavy bone structure., adjust portions based on activity level. Budget $62–95/month for food costs.
Daily Calorie Needs for Basset Hound
Adult
831-1196
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1155
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
738-1063
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Basset Hounds
With a calm, low-energy temperament, the Basset Hound is particularly susceptible to overfeeding. Their daily requirement of 2.2-3.1 cups may seem surprisingly small, but exceeding it regularly leads to weight gain. A weight-management or light formula can help, and measuring every meal with a proper cup, not estimating, is essential for this breed.
Bloat Prevention for Basset Hounds
Basset Hounds are predisposed to Bloat (commonly known as bloat), one of the most serious emergencies in veterinary medicine. The stomach fills with gas and can twist on itself, cutting off blood supply. How you feed your Basset Hound directly impacts this risk. Deep-chested breeds like the Basset Hound are anatomically more susceptible, but proper feeding practices significantly reduce the odds.
Essential Feeding Practices
- Divide daily food into 2-3 smaller meals instead of one large feeding
- Use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent gulping air while eating
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 30-60 minutes before and after meals
- Keep your dog calm during and after mealtimes, excitement increases air swallowing
- Consider moistening kibble with warm water to reduce expansion in the stomach
- Avoid elevated bowls if your vet hasn't specifically recommended them
Weight Management for Basset Hounds
Weight management is a critical health priority for Basset Hounds. To determine if your Basset Hound is at a healthy weight (40–65 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. An overweight Basset Hound carrying just 10-20% extra body weight faces significantly higher risks of joint problems, cardiovascular strain, and shortened lifespan.
Basset Hound Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.1-1.6 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.1-1.6 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Basset Hound
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 2.2-3.1 cups | 831-1196 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 3.3-4.8 cans | 831-1196 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 13-31 oz | 831-1196 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 2.2-3.1 cups
- Calories
- 831-1196 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 3.3-4.8 cans
- Calories
- 831-1196 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 13-31 oz
- Calories
- 831-1196 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Basset Hounds
The Basset Hound has modest exercise needs, 20-30 minutes of gentle walks and indoor play daily is usually sufficient. Because of their low activity level, there is rarely a need to adjust food intake for exercise. The bigger risk is overfeeding a relatively sedentary dog. If your Basset Hound gets less activity than usual (bad weather, recovery from illness), consider reducing portions by 10%.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Basset Hounds, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Overfeeding because the Basset Hound always seems hungry
Some breeds appear perpetually hungry due to genetics or behavior. Stick to measured portions and use low-calorie treats like baby carrots, green beans, or ice cubes. If your Basset Hound inhales food, try a slow-feeder bowl.
Feeding one large meal per day
Basset Hounds are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency. Always split daily food into 2-3 smaller meals and avoid exercise immediately after eating. Consider an elevated bowl and a slow-feeder.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early, even at 1-2 years old, is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change, brand, flavor, or formula, should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Basset Hounds included.
Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget
Treats should never exceed 10% of your Basset Hound's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories, significant for a dog that only needs 788 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.
Basset Hound-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Basset Hounds, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Portion Control
This breed is prone to weight gain. Measure portions carefully, limit treats to 10% of daily calories, and avoid free-feeding. Consider a weight management formula.
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day instead of one large meal. Use a slow-feeder bowl. Avoid exercise 30 minutes before and after meals.
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Basset Hound Ideal Weight
To determine if your Basset Hound is at a healthy weight (40–65 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their coat type allows for relatively easy visual assessment.
Male Basset Hound
40-65 lbs
18-29 kg
Female Basset Hound
34-57 lbs
15-26 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
An adult Basset Hound typically needs 831-1196 calories per day, which translates to approximately 2.2-3.1 cups of dry kibble daily, split into two meals. However, this is a starting point, your specific dog's needs depend on their exact weight within the 40-65 lb range, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're spayed/neutered (which reduces calorie needs by about 20-30%).
Adult Basset Hounds should be fed twice a day, ideally 12 hours apart (morning and evening). Because this breed is at risk for bloat, splitting food into 2-3 meals is especially important, never feed the entire daily portion in one sitting. Consistent meal times help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and make house training easier.
Look for a food that lists real meat (not meal or by-products) as the first ingredient, contains 22-30% protein, and is formulated for medium breeds. A standard adult formula from a reputable brand that meets AAFCO standards provides complete nutrition.
Some Basset Hounds have a genetic tendency toward increased appetite. Certain Basset Hounds have an increased food drive that may be breed-related. If your dog seems constantly hungry: ensure you're feeding the correct amount (2.2-3.1 cups/day), use a slow-feeder to extend meal duration, add low-calorie bulk (green beans, pumpkin) to meals, and rule out medical causes like hypothyroidism with your vet.
Given the Basset Hound's predisposition to joint issues, consider: glucosamine HCl (500-1000mg/day), chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fish oil (EPA/DHA). Green-lipped mussel extract is also showing promise in studies. Many premium dog foods already include glucosamine, check your current food's label before adding supplements. Start joint support early (1-2 years old) for prevention rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Always consult your vet before starting a supplement regimen.
Bloat (GDV) prevention through feeding: divide daily food into 2-3 meals rather than one; use a slow-feeder bowl; avoid vigorous exercise 30-60 minutes before and after meals; keep meal times calm; consider moistening kibble with warm water; and don't let your dog drink excessive water immediately after eating. While no feeding method guarantees bloat prevention, these practices significantly reduce the risk in susceptible breeds like the Basset Hound. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet, especially if you're getting a puppy.
Raw (BARF) diets are an option for Basset Hounds, with proponents citing shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. A typical raw diet provides 2-3% of body weight daily, for a Basset Hound, that means roughly 13-31 oz per day. The diet should include muscle meat (70%), raw meaty bones (10%), organ meat (10%), and vegetables/fruits (10%). However, raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance if not properly formulated. Consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching.
A healthy adult Basset Hound weighs between 40-65 lbs (males: 40-65 lbs, females: 34-57 lbs). Use the body condition score (BCS) method: you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure but not see them, observe a visible waist when viewed from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. If your Basset Hound exceeds 75 lbs or you can't feel the ribs, consult your vet about a weight management plan.
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.