Male Names for Basset Hound

A classic name that evokes the rich, reddish-brown tones often found in a Basset Hound's tricolor or bicolor coat. 'Copper' suggests warmth, earthiness, and durability, reflecting the breed's sturdy, heavy-boned build and its history as a resilient hunting dog. The name connects to the natural world where these hounds once trailed game, their coats providing camouflage in the underbrush. It implies a dependable and steadfast companion with a classic, timeless appeal, much like the metal itself.

From the Old English 'coper', derived from the Latin 'Cyprium aes', meaning 'metal of Cyprus', where it was mined in antiquity.

This name directly references the Basset Hound's original working environment: the dense forests and undergrowth of France. They were specifically bred with short legs to effectively navigate this difficult terrain while keeping their powerful nose to the ground. 'Forrest' evokes a sense of purpose, endurance, and a deep connection to the natural world. It suggests a dog that is methodical and relentless on a scent trail, embodying the very essence of a scent hound's existence.

From the Old French 'forest', derived from Latin 'foris', meaning 'outside'. It denotes a large area of land covered with trees.

Jasper is a type of quartz, often reddish-brown and speckled, visually reminiscent of the Basset Hound's common coat colors. The name, meaning 'bringer of treasure', can be interpreted as a nod to their hunting heritage, where they would 'bring' the hunter to the 'treasure' of the game. It suggests an earthy, solid, and dependable nature, which aligns with the Basset's heavy-boned build and loyal temperament. It's a classic name with a rugged, natural feel.

From Greek 'iaspis', via Latin and Old French, meaning 'spotted stone'. It is also of Persian origin, meaning 'bringer of treasure'.

A French name meaning 'handsome', 'Beau' is a charming and slightly ironic choice for the Basset Hound. While unconventionally handsome, their appeal is undeniable, found in their soulful eyes, velvety ears, and dignified (if droopy) expression. The name is a direct nod to the breed's French origins, where they were developed as hunting dogs for the aristocracy. It captures their endearing qualities and noble heritage in a single, elegant syllable, celebrating their unique form of beauty.

From the French word 'beau', meaning 'handsome' or 'beautiful', derived from the Latin 'bellus'.

This name is a direct homage to Saint Hubert, the patron saint of hunters, and the namesake of the St. Hubert Hound. The Basset Hound is a direct descendant of this ancient breed, developed by monks at the Abbey of St. Hubert in the Ardennes. 'Hubert' is a name steeped in history and purpose, signifying the very foundation of the Basset's lineage. It speaks to a noble, almost sacred, connection to the hunt, embodying centuries of careful breeding and dedication to the art of scenting.

From the Germanic elements 'hug', meaning 'heart, mind, spirit', and 'beraht', meaning 'bright, famous'.

A classic French name, 'Gaston' evokes the Basset Hound's country of origin and its history with French aristocracy. The name has a sturdy, somewhat grandiose sound, which amusingly fits the Basset's heavy-boned, substantial build and their often-comical self-importance. It suggests a character who is confident, perhaps a bit stubborn, but ultimately charming. This aligns well with the Basset's known temperament: intelligent but independent, and always full of personality.

A French name of Germanic origin, possibly from 'gast', meaning 'guest' or 'stranger'. It was the name of a 6th-century bishop.

This name is famously associated with Rosco P. Coltrane's lazy, lovable Basset Hound, Flash, from the TV show 'The Dukes of Hazzard'. 'Roscoe' has become a quintessential name for the breed, embodying the public perception of the Basset as a laid-back, slightly dopey, but utterly endearing companion. It captures the breed's transition from a determined hunter to a beloved family pet and pop culture icon. The name suggests an easygoing, friendly, and loyal dog.

From an Old Norse place name meaning 'deer forest', derived from 'rá', meaning 'roe deer', and 'skógr', meaning 'wood'.

An old English name that means 'son of consolation', 'Barnaby' has a gentle, comforting sound that suits the Basset Hound's affectionate nature. It evokes a sense of old-world charm and reliability. The name suggests a character who is both dignified and slightly bumbling, a perfect description for a Basset. It paints a picture of a loyal companion with a ponderous gait and a soulful expression, always ready to offer quiet companionship.

An English form of the Aramaic name Barnabas, meaning 'son of the prophet' or 'son of consolation'.

The most iconic Basset Hound name of all, 'Droopy' comes from the classic MGM cartoon character known for his lethargic demeanor and surprisingly effective, deadpan heroism. The name perfectly describes the breed's most noticeable physical traits: the long, drooping ears, the loose, jowly skin, and the sad, soulful eyes. It embodies the melancholic yet charming expression that has made the Basset Hound a beloved figure in popular culture. The name is synonymous with the breed itself.

From the English word 'droop', meaning 'to hang or sag downwards'. Popularized by the cartoon character created in 1943.

A name that evokes the master detective, 'Sherlock' is fitting for a Basset Hound, a master of scent detection. Their ability to pick up a cold trail and follow it for miles is second only to the Bloodhound, making them the canine equivalent of a brilliant investigator. The name also has a pop culture link, as Elvis Presley famously sang 'Hound Dog' to a Basset named Sherlock. It suggests intelligence, focus, and a methodical approach to problem-solving—all traits of a top-tier scent hound.

From an English surname meaning 'bright-haired' or 'fair-haired', derived from Old English 'scīr' (bright) and 'locc' (lock of hair).

A name of great dignity and substance, 'Winston' perfectly suits the Basset Hound's portly, heavy-boned physique and solemn expression. It evokes a sense of old-world statesmanship and gravitas. This classic English name provides a humorous contrast to the breed's often goofy and stubborn nature, playing on the 'aristocratic clown' theme. It suggests a dog of great importance and character, who carries himself with a ponderous, deliberate gait, as if contemplating matters of great weight.

From an Old English surname and place name, meaning 'joy stone' or 'Wynn's town'.

A strong, Celtic name meaning 'one strength' or 'unique choice', 'Angus' fits the Basset Hound's robust and sturdy build. It's a name with substance and a friendly, rustic charm. It suggests a dog that is powerful in his own low-slung way, with the endurance to track a scent for hours. The name has a hearty, substantial feel, much like the breed itself, which is heavier in bone for its size than any other. It evokes a dependable and resilient character.

The Latinized form of the Gaelic name Aonghus, composed of elements meaning 'one' and 'choice'.

This musical term perfectly describes the Basset Hound's distinctive voice. They are known not for a sharp bark, but for a deep, resonant, and melodious bay or howl that can carry for long distances. This vocalization was a crucial tool for hunters following the pack on foot through dense terrain. 'Baritone' is a sophisticated and accurate description of this signature trait, celebrating a sound that is both functional and deeply characteristic of the breed.

From the Greek 'barytonos', meaning 'deep-sounding', via Italian 'baritono'. It describes a male singing voice between bass and tenor.

Meaning 'bear cub' in Latin, 'Orson' is a fitting name for the Basset Hound. It captures their heavy, somewhat clumsy, and powerful build, as well as their often lumbering, waddling gait. The name suggests a character that is strong and substantial, yet also endearing and lovable, much like a young bear. It reflects the breed's surprising weight and density—they are very heavy-boned dogs on short legs—and their gentle, affectionate nature despite their formidable appearance.

From a Norman French diminutive of 'ors', meaning 'bear', which comes from the Latin 'ursus'.

The French word for 'knight', 'Chevalier' is a title of nobility that harks back to the Basset Hound's aristocratic origins in France. It bestows a sense of chivalry and honor upon this low-slung hound. The name is deeply ironic, as a knight is typically imagined as tall and swift, not short and slow. This captures the 'aristocratic clown' paradox perfectly, celebrating both their noble lineage and their comical physique. It suggests a dog with a noble heart in a humble form.

From the Old French 'chevalier', meaning 'horseman' or 'knight', derived from 'cheval', meaning 'horse'.

A pun combining the Roman emperor Julius Caesar with the Basset Hound's notorious tendency to drool. The breed's loose, pendulous lips (flews) make them prone to slobbering, a trait many owners know well. This name humorously elevates this messy habit to an imperial level. It captures the Basset's paradoxical nature: they have a dignified, almost regal expression, yet they are also masters of the comical and undignified, like leaving a trail of drool on the furniture.

A pun on 'Julius Caesar', the Roman general and statesman, combined with the English word 'drool'.

An overly elaborate, aristocratic-sounding name that directly and humorously references the Basset Hound's most prominent features. 'Sir Reginald' suggests nobility, while 'Von Floppy' comically undercuts it by pointing to their long, floppy ears and loose skin. This name is a perfect embodiment of the 'aristocratic clown' persona, acknowledging their noble French hunting lineage while simultaneously poking fun at their droopy, unconventional appearance.

A constructed humorous name combining a classic English first name, a Germanic noble particle ('von'), and a descriptive English word ('floppy').

An auditor is someone who conducts an official inspection of accounts. This name humorously describes the Basset Hound's behavior on a walk: a slow, methodical, and exhaustive inspection of every single scent. They are stubborn and single-minded in their 'audit' of the environment, refusing to be rushed. The name captures their serious, focused expression as they work, as well as the frustratingly slow pace they often set for their owners.

From the Latin 'auditor', meaning 'a hearer', from 'audire', 'to hear'. In modern English, it refers to an official examiner of accounts.

A pun on the medical term for a general feeling of discomfort or lethargy. This name humorously captures the Basset Hound's default state of being: slow-moving, sleepy, and seemingly world-weary. Their sad, droopy eyes and lethargic posture often give them an air of profound boredom or mild depression, even when perfectly content. The military title 'General' adds a layer of mock authority, creating a comical image of a high-ranking officer who is simply too tired to care.

A pun on the medical term. 'Malaise' is a French word meaning 'discomfort', adopted into English.

Short for 'bulldozer', this name humorously describes the Basset Hound in two ways. First, it refers to their love of 'dozing' or sleeping. Second, it captures their low-slung, powerful, and heavy-boned build. When they are determined, they can move with a surprising, stubborn force, 'bulldozing' their way through obstacles (or towards the food bowl). The name suggests a combination of extreme laziness and unstoppable, slow-moving power.

Shortened form of 'bulldozer', a heavy tractor with a front blade. Also a play on the verb 'to doze', meaning to sleep lightly.

An ironic name for the slow-moving Basset Hound, 'Flash' is famous as the name of Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane's lethargic canine companion in 'The Dukes of Hazzard'. The humor lies in the stark contrast between the name's meaning (speed, sudden brightness) and the breed's actual pace. It celebrates the Basset's pop culture persona as a laid-back, unhurried, and lovable sidekick. The name is a playful nod to their deliberate, methodical nature.

From the Middle English 'flashen', meaning 'to splash or dash'. It refers to a sudden burst of light or speed.

A friendly, sturdy, and classic short name, often a diminutive of Angus or Augustus. 'Gus' has a solid, dependable, and unpretentious feel, which perfectly suits the Basset Hound's temperament. It suggests a dog who is both strong and gentle, a loyal and easygoing companion. The name has a pleasant, slightly rumbling sound that echoes the Basset's low-slung, heavy-boned build and their deep, grumbling vocalizations.

A short form of Augustus (Latin, 'great, magnificent') or Angus (Gaelic, 'one choice').

This name honors the French aristocrat and military officer who was a hero of the American Revolution. It is commonly believed that Lafayette gifted some of the first Basset Hounds to George Washington. This name connects the breed not only to French nobility but also to the founding of the United States. It is a name of great historical weight, suggesting a character of revolutionary spirit and transatlantic friendship, humorously housed in a short-legged, droopy-eared dog.

The name and title of Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, a French aristocrat and key figure in the American and French Revolutions.

A classic, stately name of Aramaic origin, 'Bartholomew' has a long, ponderous sound that perfectly matches the Basset Hound's deliberate, unhurried nature. It is a name of great substance and dignity, befitting their heavy-boned frame and solemn expression. The name evokes a sense of old-world charm and gentle wisdom, suggesting a character who is thoughtful, calm, and perhaps a little bit stubborn in his ways.

From the Aramaic name 'Bar-Talmai', meaning 'son of Talmai', which means 'abounding in furrows'.

A distinguished Norman French surname meaning 'Gumaric's mountain', 'Montgomery' has a noble and substantial ring to it. It suits the Basset Hound's dignified demeanor and their surprisingly heavy, powerful build. The name evokes a sense of old money and established heritage, a nod to the breed's history as a dog of the European aristocracy. It suggests a dog of quiet confidence and unshakeable, if slow-moving, resolve.

From a Norman French place name, derived from the Germanic personal name Gumaric and the Old French 'mont', meaning 'hill'.

This name, famously associated with firearms, is a direct nod to the Basset Hound's original purpose as a hunting dog. Bassets were developed as slow-moving hounds that hunters, armed with early firearms that were slow to reload, could easily keep up with on foot. The name 'Remington' evokes the world of sport hunting, fields, and forests. It suggests a dog with a strong connection to its working roots and a powerful, innate instinct to track game.

From an English surname and place name, possibly meaning 'settlement on the edge of a stream'.

A name of Germanic origin meaning 'bold voyager', 'Ferdinand' is a grand, slightly old-fashioned name that amusingly contrasts with the Basset Hound's homebody nature. While they may not be bold voyagers in the traditional sense, they are incredibly bold when voyaging on a scent trail. The name has a royal, substantial feel that suits their dignified (if droopy) appearance and their history with European nobility.

From the Germanic elements 'fardi', meaning 'journey', and 'nanthi', meaning 'daring, brave'.

A name of legendary and noble standing, 'Arthur' evokes images of kings, knights, and chivalry. This classic name suits the Basset Hound's dignified demeanor and their aristocratic heritage. Despite their comical appearance, they carry themselves with a certain gravitas. The name suggests a character of quiet strength, loyalty, and a noble heart, all qualities found in the Basset's temperament. It’s a timeless name for a dog with an ancient lineage.

The origin is disputed, possibly from Welsh 'arth' (bear) and 'gwr' (man), or from the Roman family name Artorius.

A classic, dependable name of Greek origin meaning 'farmer' or 'earth-worker'. This connects to the Basset Hound's strong ties to the land and their purpose of tracking over terrain. 'George' is also a royal name, fitting for a breed with aristocratic origins. The name is sturdy, unpretentious, and timeless. It suggests a reliable and steadfast character, much like the Basset itself. It also has a historical link, as Lafayette is said to have gifted Bassets to George Washington.

From the Greek name 'Georgios', from 'georgos', meaning 'farmer, earth-worker'.

A classic Germanic name meaning 'peaceful ruler', 'Frederick' has a dignified and substantial sound that suits the Basset Hound. The name also has a direct link to the breed's pop culture history through 'Fred Basset', the long-running British comic strip character. This name captures both their noble, commanding presence (when they choose to exert it) and their famous, easygoing public persona. It suggests a dog who rules his home with a gentle and peaceful, if stubborn, authority.

From the Germanic name Friedrich, from the elements 'fridu' (peace) and 'rīc' (ruler, power).

A timeless name of Germanic origin meaning 'home ruler', borne by numerous kings of France and England. 'Henry' is a perfect fit for the Basset Hound, a breed with deep roots in the aristocracies of both nations. The name is strong, classic, and dependable. It suggests a dog who is the quiet, steady master of his domain—the house and the yard—surveying his kingdom with a solemn gaze from his favorite spot on the couch.

From the Germanic name Heimirich, from the elements 'heim' (home) and 'rīc' (ruler, power).

A Greek name meaning 'gift of God', 'Theodore' is a name of substance and warmth. It has a distinguished, classic feel that suits the Basset Hound's solemn expression and their history as a cherished breed. The name suggests a character who is both wise and lovable. It reflects the feeling of many owners that their gentle, loyal Basset is a true gift, a comforting and steady presence in their lives.

From the Greek name 'Theodōros', from 'theos' (god) and 'dōron' (gift).

A strong, classic Germanic name meaning 'powerful warrior'. This is a humorously grand title for the slow-moving Basset Hound, but it aptly describes their formidable power when it comes to tracking. The name also has a pop culture connection for breed fans, as it was the name of the Basset Hound in the 1999 film 'Carrie 2: The Rage'. It's a solid, dependable name with a friendly, old-fashioned charm.

From a Germanic name composed of the elements 'wald' (power, ruler) and 'hari' (army, warrior).

This name refers to the Ardennes, a region of forests in Belgium and France, historically linked to the Abbey of St. Hubert. The Basset Hound's ancestors, the St. Hubert Hounds, were developed in this very region. It evokes a sense of deep-rooted heritage and connection to the wild, dense terrain these dogs were bred to navigate. The name carries an air of ancient nobility and purpose, reflecting the breed's origins as a meticulous hunting companion for medieval friars and aristocracy.

From the Gaulish 'Arduenna silva', meaning 'high forest'. It is the name of a forested region in Belgium, Luxembourg, and France, central to the breed's ancestry.

The name 'River' suggests a steady, persistent flow, mirroring the Basset Hound's methodical and relentless nature when following a scent trail. Just as a river carves its path through the landscape, a Basset follows a scent with unwavering determination. The name also evokes a sense of calm and tranquility, reflecting the breed's laid-back and easygoing personality at home. It captures the duality of a focused worker and a serene companion, a key aspect of the Basset's character.

From the Old French 'riviere', derived from the Latin 'riparius', meaning 'of a riverbank'. It refers to a large natural stream of water.

This name refers to a weight suspended from a pivot, swinging freely. It perfectly captures the image of a Basset Hound's long, heavy, pendulous ears swinging back and forth as they walk or run. This motion is not just incidental; the ears are functional tools that help stir up scent from the ground and waft it towards their powerful nose. 'Pendulum' is a mechanical and rhythmic name that describes a key piece of their integrated sensory apparatus.

From the Latin 'pendulus', meaning 'hanging down', via 'pendere', 'to hang'.

This name honors Jacques du Fouilloux, the French author who gave the first known written mention of a 'basset' dog in his 1585 hunting text, 'La Venerie'. Naming a Basset 'Fouilloux' is a tribute to the very moment their type was first recorded in history. It signifies a connection to the deepest roots of the breed's identity and its long association with the sport of hunting in France. The name is a piece of living history, embodying the breed's literary and cultural origins.

A French surname, likely of geographical origin, referring to a place with leafy trees ('feuillu').

This name honors Sir Everett Millais, a key figure in the Basset Hound's history in England during the late 19th century. He was instrumental in developing and popularizing the breed outside of France. Millais is credited with breeding a heavier type of Basset, contributing significantly to the modern breed standard. The name signifies the breed's transition and refinement under the influence of the British dog fancy, a pivotal chapter in their story.

An English surname of French origin, famously associated with the Pre-Raphaelite painter Sir John Everett Millais.

The dewlap is the loose fold of skin under the throat, which is very pronounced in the Basset Hound. This feature, along with their long ears and wrinkled brow, is believed to help trap and hold scent particles close to the nose, enhancing their tracking ability. 'Dewlap' is a name that singles out a specific, functional piece of their anatomy. It's a quirky, affectionate, and knowledgeable choice that celebrates one of the breed's most distinctive and purposeful traits.

From Middle English, combining 'dew' and 'lap' (a fold or flap), possibly from the way it gathers moisture.

This name directly references the famous brand of shoes that has used a Basset Hound as its mascot since 1958. The brand's name itself comes from a Southern food, supposedly thrown to barking dogs to 'hush' them. The name is a multi-layered piece of pop culture history, inextricably linked with the breed's public image as a comfortable, casual, and friendly companion. It’s a nod to the Basset's role in advertising and their rise as a beloved family pet.

The brand name for a type of casual shoe. The term 'hush puppy' also refers to a deep-fried cornmeal fritter, a Southern U.S. food.

This name combines two key Basset traits into one comical package. 'Professor' refers to their often thoughtful, solemn, and wrinkled-brow expression, which gives them an air of deep academic contemplation. 'Loaf' refers to their tendency to lie down in a compact, loaf-like shape and their general inclination towards inactivity. The name creates the image of a brilliant intellectual who prefers to conduct their research from a comfortable bed.

A constructed humorous name combining the academic title 'Professor' with the colloquial term 'loaf' for a lazy person or the shape of bread.

An ironic and self-aware name that lovingly acknowledges the Basset Hound's more challenging traits. They can be 'nuisance barkers' with their loud, carrying bays, and their stubbornness during training can be a trial. Their powerful noses can lead them to become 'nuisance diggers' or countertop thieves. This name embraces these difficulties with a sense of humor, suggesting that their charming qualities far outweigh their mischievous tendencies.

From the Old French 'nuisance', meaning 'harm' or 'annoyance', from the verb 'nuire', 'to harm'.

A cute and humorous name that refers to a Basset Hound's tendency to drool. Due to their loose lips and jowls, they often leave little 'puddles' of drool, especially after drinking water or when anticipating a treat. The name can also describe the way their long, low body seems to 'puddle' on the floor when they lie down. It’s an affectionate name that embraces one of the messier, but still endearing, aspects of the breed.

From the Middle English 'puddel', meaning a small pool of water, especially of rainwater on the ground.