Saturday, December 1, 2012

All About Hounds: Are Basset Hounds Lovable

By Steve McLain


Are Basset Hounds lovable? Who can resist those sad eyes, the wrinkly face, the floppy ears, the long, low body with stubby little legs. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages before choosing a Basset Hound as your next companion animal.

Bassets bark and howl when strangers approach, then greet them enthusiastically. They're not aggressive or territorial. They're excellent family pets, friendly and gentle, enjoying children of all ages. They're good with other dogs. They don't chase to kill but will have a difficult time "not chasing" the cat.

Their short legs make them look smaller than they are. This is a large dog weighing 45-75 pounds. Gentle but stubborn, they're not the most obedient dogs but they are the most comical. Housebreaking takes a bit longer for this breed.

Their neck is wider than their head so flat collars fall off. They should be walked with a no slip collar or a harness. They enjoy sniffing and snooping but are surprisingly fast when they decide to chase something. Always keep your Basset Hound on a leash. Their instinct to chase usually overwhelms any obedience training.

Bassets have a deep bark and also enjoy a good howl. They bark or howl when they see anything move outside the window. They talk when they want attention, food, treats, walks, playtime. They're happiest in a family home with lots of company. They don't do well left alone all day.

With short stubby legs and a heavy body, they don't swim well. In fact they can drown in a few minutes. Don't leave this breed unsupervised around the backyard pool.

Don't be fooled by the short hair. They shed year round. Their natural odor is "doggy", and the wrinkly skin and droopy ears are fertile ground for infections and odors. Ears, eyes, and mouth should be cleaned daily.

Dogs with long bodies are at risk for hip and spinal cord injuries. Bassets should be discouraged from jumping. They shouldn't race up and down stairs. Excess weight is excess pressure on the spine that can lead to injury and paralysis. If you must lift your dog, wrap your arms around the belly keeping his back straight.

This breed is at risk for bloat. The colon inflates with gas then twists on itself. Minimize risk by feeding several small meals a day and don't allow running or playing for 1/2 hour after mealtimes.

Are Basset Hounds lovable? They're lovable and they're a great family pet. If you choose this breed, you must take a few minutes a day to clean eyes, ears, and mouth. They don't win obedience trials but they're friendly and gentle with kids. They don't swim well. They're not trustworthy off leash. They are good with other dogs, great fun at the dog park.




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