The Basset Queen Mother Took in the Whole Room With Tired Eyes

The Basset's long black ears hang beside her face like heavy velvet curtains, and a black lace veil is draped over her head. Her tricolor face is white and tan, with a wrinkled brow and warm, sad brown eyes. She wears a black velvet gown with golden flowers and leaves stitched across the chest, and a single strand of pearls rests at her throat. A soft golden light glows at the left, and the old, dark background makes her white chest and muzzle stand out.

Basset Hounds are gentle, easygoing dogs with one of the best noses in the dog world. They were bred to follow scent trails, and many will happily sniff their way along a walk. A secure fence and leash are important, because a Basset on a scent may ignore calls. Their long ears should be cleaned and checked often, and the folds of their face need regular wiping. Their long backs and short legs mean it is wise to avoid jumping from furniture and to keep them at a healthy weight. Ask your vet about exercise and diet.

The queen mother watches the room with great patience. She has seen many dinners, and she has a good sense of when the next one is coming. Her dignity is real, and her ears are even more so.