Corgi Basset

The Basset Hound is a distinctive medium to large scent hound that combines substantial weight with surprisingly short stature, creating an immediately recognizable silhouette beloved by dog enthusiasts worldwide. Despite standing no more than 14 to 15 inches at the shoulder, Basset Hounds typically weigh 40 to 65 pounds, with some males reaching up to 80 pounds. This hefty build results from the breed possessing the heaviest bone structure relative to size of any dog breed. The Basset's short legs are a result of achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism that was deliberately bred into the line to create a dog that could track scent while moving slowly enough for hunters to follow on foot. The Basset Hound's head is large and well-proportioned, featuring a distinctively domed skull and prominent occiput. The breed's most memorable features include extremely long, velvety ears set low and well back on the head that can extend beyond the nose when drawn forward. These pendulous ears serve a functional purpose, helping to stir up ground scent and funnel it toward the nose, which possesses scenting ability second only to the Bloodhound. Deep-set eyes convey the breed's characteristic mournful expression, enhanced by prominent nictitating membranes and loose facial skin that forms wrinkles on the forehead. The dewlap, or loose skin around the neck, and heavy flews complete the distinctive facial appearance. The Basset Hound's body is long and low to the ground, with a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and a level back. The forelegs are short, heavy-boned, and often slightly crooked, with massive paws that turn slightly outward to provide stable support for the broad shoulders. The coat is short, smooth, and dense, providing adequate protection in the field. Any recognized hound color is acceptable, though tricolor combinations of black, white, and tan or bicolor patterns of lemon and white are most commonly seen. The long tail curves upward and is carried gaily when the dog is in motion.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small but remarkably sturdy herding dog with a distinctive long body and short legs that belie its surprising athleticism and working capability. Standing 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder, males typically weigh around 30 pounds while females average approximately 28 pounds. The breed is achondroplastic, meaning it is a true dwarf breed, with the characteristic shortened limbs that allow it to effectively herd cattle by nipping at their heels while ducking beneath retaliatory kicks. Despite their low stature, Pembroke Welsh Corgis possess a substantial, well-muscled body with sufficient bone to handle livestock much larger than themselves. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi's head is foxy in appearance, featuring a moderately wide, flat skull that tapers toward the eyes, erect ears that are slightly rounded at the tips, and an intelligent, interested expression. The medium-length neck flows into a deep chest and well-sprung ribs that provide ample heart and lung room for the breed's demanding work. The body is fairly long relative to height, though not extreme, and the topline is level. One distinguishing feature from the closely related Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the tail; Pembrokes are often born with naturally short tails or have their tails docked in countries where the practice is permitted. The breed's weather-resistant double coat consists of a short, thick, weather-resistant undercoat covered by a longer, coarser outer coat. Coat colors include red, sable, fawn, and black and tan, all typically displaying white markings on the legs, chest, neck, muzzle, and underparts. Some individuals display the distinctive fairy saddle marking, a pattern of lighter colored hair over the shoulders. The coat sheds heavily, particularly during seasonal changes, and requires regular brushing to manage loose hair. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi's combination of compact size, sturdy build, and big-dog personality has made it enormously popular worldwide.