No. Basset Hounds shed abundantly and, as a result, leave pet dander in your home. Dander is the cause of most pet-related allergies.
Basset Hounds will be lazy if overfed and under-exercised. Accustom them to regular, moderate daily exercise and minimize dog treats to keep their slothful tendencies at bay.
Basset Hounds can drool copiously because of the way their lips hang. Many owners keep a towel handy to wipe their dog's muzzle and minimize slippery, wet spots around the house.
Basset Hounds howl for the same reason as any dog: they want attention they aren't getting, they are responding to noises, they are trying to alert their owner to danger, or they are chatting with other dogs.
No. Basset Hounds hounds are not good swimmers. They can paddle around for a minute or two, but their legs are so short they can tire out quickly and struggle to keep their torso above water. Never leave a Basset Hound alone near a pool or another body of water.