breed of hound known for its lively, extroverted nature and its bold and hardy ability to hunt rabbits by scent in thick underbrush and over rocky terrain; coat is rough and long and harsh to the touch; has thick, erect eyebrows, narrow, long-hanging ears, and long, hairy, erect tail; eyes are dark in color; adult stands 13–15 in. (33–38 cm) tall at shoulders and weighs 25–35 lbs (11–16 kg); originated in France; also called vendéen basset.