Bon Bon at Six Weeks

 As is our way. When a litter reaches six week of age we feel that we can evaluate the pups knowing most of what we are looking at. For this we use a pseudo objective six point set of criteria which takes into account the American Kennel Club description of the breed (five points of physicality). And we assign one point which is purely subjective and takes into account beauty of coloring, form, and personality. This six point evaluation has served us well since we started using it nearly twenty years ago. At the time we began using the system those people interested in reserving a puppy would receive the information prior to choosing, but now this is much more of a formality since pups are usually chosen prior to six weeks. This is certainly true of this litter.

This litter of eight pups is the first for our Lilly (Dulce DeLeche AKC) and the third for our younger male Rocky (Rocketdog Rockford Rhoades AKC). The first litter for a female is difficult to predict any outcomes but, at six weeks old, there's ample reason to believe this will be a great litter. Rocky is a great male in the American Basset Hound style. We are trying to breed a smaller form of Basset and, though he carries the genes of a smaller dame (under fifty pounds and quite small), he is nearly sixty pounds at three years old and so is not a small Basset. Lilly is a small form female of thirty-five pounds and so some of her offspring should be smaller in size as adults. Only time will tell. Both parents are great examples of the breed and so we expect this litter will carry these great traits as they grow. Both have exceptionally long ears, we formed heads with thick necks and bodies which taper perfectly to their strong hips. Neither appear to be destined to hip troubles. Both have heavy foreleg bones and deep chests. This litter carries the right stuff and none of the pups will receive less than the full five AKC derived points for form. There is simple nothing wrong with any of them.

---

Bon Bon is a wonderful example of the smaller form of the Basset breed we are trying to bring into the world. She is also one of those puppies it is difficult to take a bad picture of. The camera loves her. Though a bit smaller that others, her personality plays a bit larger. She is more than able to stand her ground at play and the food dish, but is also the first to come for cuddles when she feels overwhelmed. She is very patient and loves lap sitting. 

If her smaller form continues she will likely weigh under forty pounds at three years old and will not reach fifty pounds unless over-fed. Bon Bon is, as are all of her siblings, a very good example of the Basset Hound breed. Her foreleg bones are quite heavy, for her size. Her body shape is quite athletic and runs smoothly from her shoulders to her hips. Her jaw is set perfectly and I would expect pronounces facial fews that will give her snout the right amount of "boxiness". BonBon's ears are wonderfully draped and set well back on her well domed head. Her hips are wide and her stance (how she appears when simply standing up) is aggressive and strong.  The combination of smaller frame and good stance indicates she is not likely to have bone issues later in life, but a lot depends on exercise. Structurally, this girl might win a regional show if trained to it. 

As with all Basset Hounds it would be best keep her active throughout her life to avoid becoming sedentary and overweight. Monthly ear and nail care, and a seasonal bath, would be all that is needed to maintain this lovely "lemon" girl.  Bon Bon might be bred to another high quality Basset if rights are secured.  All of this litter are six points in their evaluations, there simply is nothing wrong with any of them and all of them are quite beautiful, but even at a beauty pageant there are stand-outs, Bon Bon is a standout for appearance and attitude. One of the best of this already very good litter.