The origins of the Bully Basset are not totally known. However, we do know the history of the Basset Hound and Bulldog parent breeds. Experts believe that the Basset is a descendant of the St. Hubert Hound, which is also an ancestor of the Bloodhound. Many think that the Basset Hound came about as a mutation in the St. Hubert breed which resulted in a dwarf version of the Blood hound. It is thought that eventually the dwarf hounds were bred on purpose once they were observed as being highly astute at tracking rabbits under brush in thick forests. The French aristocracy first took great interest in the Basset Hound; from there, a French nobleman introduced the breed to England in 1874. The first Basset Hound was shown in an English dog show in 1875. Alexandra, Princess of Wales at the time, kept Basset Hounds in the royal kennels. It is assumed that the Basset Hound came to the United States during Colonial times; however, this is not known for certain. The Basset Hound became popular in the United States around 1928 after Time magazine published a story detailing the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show through the eyes of a Basset Hound puppy. In the 1960s, the Basset Hound became synonymous with the Hush Puppy shoe brand. Also, the Fred Basset comic strip became popular at this time; it is still popular to this day. Throughout the United States, the Basset Hound is celebrated with picnics and “waddles” – occasions for Basset Hound owners to get together and promote the breed. These events usually raise money to donate to Basset Hound rescues. The Bulldog, thought to be a descendant of the Mastiff, earned his name because of his original purpose of bull-baiting. Also forced into the pits as a fighter, this breed is much happier and calmer now today, as a beloved companion of many. The 4th ranked dog in popularity according to the American Kennel Club, this breed still has a massive head and a muscular body. Now adored as a family member and friend, the beloved Bulldog serves a nicer purpose than he did in the 1800s. He is a mascot for the United States Marine Corp as well as for several universities and sports teams. A quiet dog, he is no longer the ferocious fighter he was first developed to be - instead he is dignified and respected as he deserves. The Bully Basset is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the Dog Registry of America, and the International Designer Dog Canine Registry.
