While I’m in rant mode on my favorite 4-legged subject, Allow me to futrher dispel the notion that a Basset is a ‘medium sized dog.
It is not.
It is a full-sized Bloodhound that the good Lord saw fit to attach 8 inch legs to. They are about 3 feet long nose to tush and weigh at least 50-60 pounds...for a small one,
Those ears everyone is so fond of drag in everything from poop to puddles and are a royal BiXXX to keep clean.
Those sagging jowels contain an ocean of chemical weapons known as dog drool and when they shake their heads, you will be cleaning your ceiling ...quite often actually.
Further more, you will be slowly but determinedly shoved off every chair you sit on, couch you lie on and bed you sleep in....even a California King. Because, stupid human, YOU are ALWAYS in the exact spot the Basset NEEDS to be.
I tell you this not to...well yes, to discourage you. Because you cannot find them for under about $1000 from a reputable breeder And As I want another one, I’m trying to drive the cost down any way I can ;)
All kidding aside however, they are prone some health issues (hip displasya) and they will rule your life 24/7/365.
They are not Basset Hounds, they are ATTENTION Hounds. And you better have enough people in your house to entertain them at ALL times...and thats after you train them.
I had to laugh at your description of the basset! Great job! I have never had a basset but been around them and you are right on! But I wanted to share the name given by my UK friends for that flying slobber. I learned it when I acquired an Italian Spinone from England years ago. They call it FLOB (flying + slobber). And yes, it goes all the way to the ceiling. When mixed with dark West Texas dirt it makes a sort of black concrete that is difficult to remove too, especially from white ceilings. Ahhh the joy of jowly dogs. :) Gotta love ‘em or you would...well, you know.