Wednesday, November 21, 2012

All About Hounds: Are Basset Hounds Lovable

By Steve McLain


They're cute and comical, but are Basset Hounds lovable? Yes, they are. They're gentle, friendly, sociable, and just plain old-fashioned lovable. But is this breed the right choice for your family.

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.

The stubby little legs are deceptive. Bassets are large dogs that weigh between 45 and 75 pounds when full grown. Sweet but stubborn, they don't win obedience trials. Training requires patience and gentle corrections.

With such a stocky neck, flat collars are useless. One backwards pull and they're off. Use either a harness or a no slip collar for walks. Bred to sniff out and chase rabbits, no amount of training will make your Basset a reliable off leash dog.

These are talkative dogs. They bark, howl, and whine to keep the family informed of their feelings, needs, and observations. Not a good choice if you live in an apartment.

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.

Wrinkly skin is a breeding ground for dirt and infection. Ears, eyes, and the folds around the mouth must be cleaned daily. Their skin has a naturally "doggy" smell and they shed year round. Regular baths and a light dusting with talcum powder will keep your pet fresh and clean.

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.

Another health issue for this breed is bloat and torsion. The stomach bloats which may be followed by twisting. To lessen the risk, feed several small meals a day. No running or playing allowed for 30 minutes after each meal.

Why are Basset Hounds lovable. Because they're friendly, sweet, gentle, sociable, good with children, a great family pet. Stubborn and excitable, not dependable off leash, but they can be lots of fun at the dog park. Be very careful at the beach, they're not good swimmers. They shed all year round. Wrinkly skin and droopy ears need daily cleaning to stave off smelly infections. They need company. A lonely Basset is a noisy and destructive Basset.




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