I've got to be honest, I don't think that photo is cute at all. I would not be impressed with Opus if he acted like that with me.
I've said this before, this kind of behaviour is one of the main reasons I don't allow Opus on the furniture. Bassets are champion sleepers, do not like to be disturbed and I don't want any friction, Opus has his many beds dotted about the house and I have my human furniture. Works perfectly. A snarling dog is a dog that is warning you not to push him, very dangerous behaviour in my view. And one that can progress to a snap or a bite very quickly.