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A tricolor Basset Hound wearing a red Santa hat sits in front of a stone fireplace with stockings hanging. 3 / 26

A Basset Hound in a Santa Hat Waits by the Fire, Very Seriously

AI imagebasset houndsanta hatfireplace

The long ears, droopy eyes and tiny red Santa hat make a combination that's hard to resist. A tricolor Basset Hound sits in front of a stone fireplace, where a small fire glows and two stockings hang from a garland-covered mantel. His soulful brown eyes meet the viewer with the calm weariness of a dog who has seen many Christmases, and a plaid blanket and a basket of gifts sit nearby.

Basset Hounds were bred to track scents, and their incredible noses, long ears and low bodies make them perfect for the job. They're typically gentle, laid-back dogs, though they can be stubborn when something smells interesting. Those long ears can trap dirt and moisture, so regular cleaning helps keep them healthy. They also love food, and holiday tables are full of things dogs shouldn't eat, such as chocolate and fatty scraps. A fireplace should always have a screen, and a hat should only be worn for a short time and removed if the dog seems bothered.

We'll name him Walter. He wears his hat with great seriousness, like a retired sheriff in a festive mood. The fire crackles, the stockings wait, and Walter sits patient and dignified, ready for a holiday scrap of bacon that probably won't come. With a face like that, he'll receive a treat or two before the night is over anyway.

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