The Duchess Wears a Feathered Hat and Very Long Ears
Her ears are so long they could wrap around her like a shawl, and the duchess knows how to wear a hat. The tricolor Basset Hound looks straight out with deep, soulful brown eyes, her black and tan ears hanging down on either side of her white chest. Her pink hat sits at a jaunty angle, covered with golden braid, small roses and soft pale feathers. Below, her gown is a tumble of pink silk and lace with golden embroidery and a ribbon at the neck. The sky behind her is a pastel haze with golden scrolls.
The wistful look is the heart of the portrait. It gives her a gentle, noble sadness, like a duchess who has just remembered that dinner is still two hours away.
Basset Hounds are scent hounds with long ears that brush the ground and help stir up scent trails. They are friendly, easygoing and often stubborn, since their noses can lead them wherever a good smell goes. Because of their long bodies and heavy bones, they should be kept lean and discouraged from jumping off high furniture. Their ears need regular cleaning and drying to avoid infections, and their skin folds should be kept clean. Your vet can suggest the right diet, exercise and ear care routine for your dog.
The hat is magnificent, and the duchess is gracious. But her true talent is finding anything edible within a mile.
