Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

Basset Hound dogs make good family companions that are loving and amusing household pets. With a deep musical bark and short legs, their movement is humorous looking and slow but not clumsy. These dogs are essentially hunting dogs that sport immense amounts of will power and strong natural instincts. While they are heavier in bone, considering size, than any other breed of dog, they are capable of impressive endurance in the field. As pets, they are loyal, devoted and obedient to owners. They get along well with other pets and children thanks to their mild temper. Basset Hound dogs are good-natured and will never be sharp or timid.

TEMPERAMENT

The Basset Hound fits perfectly into family life with its sweet, peaceful and gentle nature. These dogs are well behaved and always friendly. Incapable of biting, Basset Hounds never have an indication of sharpness or viciousness although they can be a bit stubborn. They are rather obedient, with proper training, but can be distracted if they pick up an interesting smell. They like doing tricks for food to please their owners and their stomachs.

GROOMING

With a short and hard coat, Basset Hounds require minimal grooming. Their shiny and smooth fur needs little brushing and is dense enough for all weather. Beneath their coat, Basset Hound dogs have loose and elastic skin.

HEALTH

Basset Hound puppies and dogs are one of the healthier dog breeds. They do have a tendency toward obesity but this can, and should, be controlled through proper diet and exercise. Otherwise, obesity can be a serious problem that causes spine or leg issues including hip and elbow dysplasia. Basset Hounds are susceptible to skin and ear infections as well as glaucoma. Like most other dogs, this breed may suffer from bloat – the second largest killer of dogs to cancer. With their deep chests, Basset Hounds are particularly susceptible to bloat. When delivering puppies, Basset Hounds usually need cesarean sections.

EXERCISE

To help avoid obesity issues, good amounts of moderate exercise are ideal for Basset Hounds to keep them trim and fit. The best forms of exercise include long walks or scent games.

TRAINING

This breed should receive basic obedience training starting at an early age. Basset Hound dogs can have a strong self-will that mixes with their natural scenting ability to tempt them away into hot pursuit without proper, persistent training.

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