If you're considering adding a Basset Hound to your family or already have one wagging its tail around your home, you're in for a delightful journey with this charming breed. Basset Hounds, with their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and affectionate demeanour, capture the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of Basset Hound ownership, covering everything from their distinctive traits and health concerns to training tips, accessories, and nutrition essentials. Shop Basset Hound Essentials Here
Basset Hound Traits: Understanding the Essence
Basset Hounds are renowned for their distinctive appearance and gentle temperament. Here are some key traits that define this lovable breed:
- Appearance: Bassets are low to the ground with long, droopy ears, soulful eyes, and a wrinkled brow that gives them a perpetually sad expression.
- Temperament: Known for their gentle and laid-back demeanour, Basset Hounds are affectionate, loyal companions who thrive on human company.
- Scent Hounds: Bassets have an exceptional sense of smell, inherited from their hunting ancestry, which can lead them to follow interesting scents for miles if given the opportunity.
Basset Hound Health Issues: Prioritising Well-being
While Basset Hounds are generally healthy dogs, they are prone to certain breed-specific health issues, including:
- Hip Dysplasia: A common condition in larger breeds, hip dysplasia can affect Basset Hounds, leading to discomfort and mobility issues.
- Intervertebral degenerative disc disease (IVDD): Due to their small legs and long backs Basset Hounds are prone to developing IVDD, also known as a slipped disc
- Obesity: Their love for food combined with their sedentary nature can predispose Bassets to obesity, which can exacerbate other health problems, including IVDD
- Ear Infections: Those long, floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making Basset Hounds susceptible to ear infections.
- Dermatitis: Due to their skin folds Basset Hounds are prone to developing dermatitis
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and adequate exercise are crucial for maintaining your Basset Hound's health and well-being.
Basset Hound Personality: Endearing Quirks and Charms
Basset Hounds have a personality as unique as their appearance. Here's what you can expect:
- Affectionate: Bassets adore their human family members and thrive on companionship and attention.
- Laid-back: While they enjoy outdoor adventures, Basset Hounds are equally content lounging on the couch with their favourite humans.
- Stubborn: Their independent streak can make training a challenge, but patience and consistency yield rewarding results.
- Chatty: They are known for their love to sing, howl and bark, Bassets are known for being a more vocal breed
Basset Hound Training: Nurturing Obedience and Bonds
Training a Basset Hound requires patience, positive reinforcement, and a good dose of humour. Here are some tips for successful training:
- Start Early: Begin training and socialisation from a young age to prevent undesirable behaviours from becoming entrenched.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and rewards to motivate your Basset Hound during training sessions.
- Be Patient: Bassets have a stubborn streak, so consistency and patience are key to successful training outcomes.
Walking Accessories For Basset Hounds: Ensuring Comfort and Safety
When it comes to walking your Basset Hound, the right accessories can make all the difference:
- Harness: A harness is a great option for spreading the pressure and relieving strain if your Basset Hound likes to pull, which is common due to their scenting nature. We recommend an adjustable neck harness, such as the Ruffwear front range harness, as you will be able to adjust them to fit your Basset Hounds deep chest.
- Collar and lead set: If you’re looking to walk your Basset Hound on a collar and lead we recommend our Padded Italian leather collar and lead sets, the padding on the collar makes them super soft and supportive on your Basset’s neck and the matching lead is a must-have for any style conscious pooches
Best Dog Toys for Basset Hounds: Keeping Them Entertained
Basset Hounds have a playful side that thrives on interactive toys and games. Here are some favourites:
- Plush Toys: Soft, squeaky plush toys appeal to your Basset Hound's natural hunting instincts and provide hours of entertainment. The GiGwi Duraspikes are great for hunting dogs as they are made to be more durable than your average plush dog toy so should last longer!
- Fetching Toys: Due to your Basset’s hunting heritage they are likely to love a game of fetch, we particularly love the Nerf toys for playing fetch with. The Trackshot Launcher Duck will take your games of fetch to a whole new level, it’s an elasticated slingshot toy and can launch up to 75 feet. The Air Strike thrower is great for dogs who just love to chase after a tennis ball, it elevates the classic game of fetch into a long-distance chasing exercise - perfect for their hunting instincts.
- Tug-of-War Ropes: Sturdy ropes are perfect for interactive play sessions and help satisfy your Basset's urge to chew. We have a big selection of rope toys to choose from for your next game of tug of war with your Basset Hound.
- Puzzle Toys: Challenge your Basset's mind with puzzle toys that dispense treats as rewards, keeping them mentally stimulated and engaged. They are scent dogs so having them work for their food using puzzle toys is a great way to stimulate them. We particularly love the Nina Ottosson interactive toys, there is a big selection of interactive toys to keep your Basset Hound’s mind busy.
Best Bed for a Basset Hound: Prioritising Comfort and Support
Given their love for lounging, choosing the right bed for your Basset Hound is essential:
- Cosy & Calming Puppy Crate Bed: Our Cosy & Calming puppy crate beds are perfect for when you first bring your Basset puppy home, they fit exactly half the crate so are perfect for crate training.
- Luxury Box Beds: Box beds are perfect for dogs who love to spread out whilst they sleep and are perfect for when they graduate from their cosy & calming bed. Our box beds come in all of our signature fabrics so there’s sure to be something that matches your style!
- Orthopaedic Bed: Basset Hounds, like many larger breeds, benefit from the support and comfort of an orthopaedic bed, especially as they age. Our Orthopaedic Twill mattresses are crafted with thick orthopaedic foam and a plush fur top, so are perfect for supporting your Basset.
Basset Hound Food and Treats: Nourishing Their Appetites
Proper nutrition is vital for your Basset Hound's health and vitality. Here are some considerations:
- High-Quality Diet: Choose a well-balanced, high-quality dog food formulated for your Basset's age, size, and activity level. Our favourite food brands include Orijen, Acana and Carnilove, they’re all designed with your dog’s health and nutrition at the forefront.
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Portion Control: Monitor your Basset's food intake to prevent overeating and obesity.
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Healthy Treats: Offer nutritious, low-calorie treats in moderation to reinforce good behaviour and strengthen the bond between you and your Basset Hound.
In conclusion, welcoming a Basset Hound into your life is a journey filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. By understanding their unique traits, addressing their health needs, providing appropriate training and enrichment, and nourishing them with love and care, you'll enjoy a fulfilling companionship that lasts a lifetime. With the right guidance and dedication, your Basset Hound will become not just a beloved pet but a cherished member of your family. Shop all the essentials for your Basset Hound here!
