Friday, December 14, 2012

All About Hounds: Are Basset Hounds Lovable

By Steve McLain


Are Basset Hounds lovable? They're as adorable as newborn babies. With their wrinkly faces, stubby legs, and floppy ears, they're comical, energetic, and adorable. But are they the right dog for your family and household?

They're friendly and gentle, great with kids of all ages. They can live with cats but their first instinct will be chasing and barking. They don't chase to kill. They'll alert the family when strangers pass by but aren't aggressive or territorial.

Their short legs belie their true size. These are large dogs, 45-75 pounds full-grown. Training requires patience and gentle correction. They have a sweet temperament but are excitable and sometimes stubborn.

Their instinct to chase always trumps obedience training. Never walk a Basset off leash. With their wide necks, flat collars easily slip off. Use a harness or no slip collar instead.

Think twice before bringing a hound into an apartment. They howl or bark when they want something, or when they sense something wrong or unusual. They tend to whine for attention and treats, a low murmuring sound often called "talking" by their owners.

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.

Their long bodies are prone to spine and hip injuries. Excess weight can lead to spinal injury, even paralysis. Jumping should be discouraged for the same reason. Lift by wrapping your arms under the belly keeping their 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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