Are Basset Hounds Hard to Own? A Comprehensive Guide
Owning a Basset Hound presents unique challenges, but with proper understanding and preparation, it’s absolutely manageable; italicized for emphasis. Whether a Basset Hound is hard to own depends largely on your lifestyle and willingness to cater to their specific needs.
Understanding the Basset Hound Breed
The Basset Hound, with its distinctive droopy eyes and long, velvety ears, is a breed that captivates hearts. Originating in France, these dogs were bred for hunting small game by scent. Their strong noses and low-to-the-ground stature made them excellent trackers. However, their breeding also contributes to certain characteristics that potential owners should be aware of. Knowing the breed’s history helps prospective owners appreciate the unique quirks and potential challenges that come with owning a Basset Hound.
The Pros and Cons of Basset Hound Ownership
Are Basset Hounds hard to own? The answer is nuanced. They possess many endearing qualities, but also some challenges. Before bringing one home, consider these factors:
- Pros:
- Affectionate and Loyal: Basset Hounds are known for their gentle and loving nature, making them excellent family pets.
- Relatively Low-Energy: While they need daily walks, Basset Hounds are generally content to lounge around the house.
- Good with Children and Other Pets: Their patient and tolerant temperament makes them suitable for households with children and other animals.
- Cons:
- Stubbornness: Basset Hounds are notoriously stubborn and can be difficult to train.
- Excessive Drooling: Their loose jowls cause them to drool, which can be messy.
- Prone to Certain Health Issues: They are susceptible to conditions like bloat, glaucoma, and ear infections.
- Strong Scent-Following Instinct: Their powerful noses can lead them astray, making recall challenging.
- Vocal Tendencies: They are prone to barking and howling, which may be a problem in apartment settings.
Training a Basset Hound: Patience is Key
Training a Basset Hound requires immense patience and consistency. Their independent nature means they’re not always eager to please. Here’s what you need to know:
- Start Early: Begin training as soon as you bring your Basset Hound puppy home.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Basset Hounds respond best to rewards like treats and praise.
- Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun: Their attention spans are limited, so keep sessions brief and engaging.
- Be Consistent: Use the same commands and training methods every time.
- Address Recall Early: Due to their strong scent-following instincts, recall training is essential.
Addressing Common Health Concerns
Basset Hounds are prone to certain health issues due to their unique build. Prevention and early detection are crucial. Here’s a look at some common concerns:
| Health Issue | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ————————————————————————————————————————————————————————- | ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————- |
| Bloat (Gastric Torsion) | A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, cutting off blood supply. | Feed smaller meals throughout the day, avoid exercise immediately before or after eating, and consider a slow-feeder bowl. |
| Ear Infections | Their long, droopy ears trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. | Regularly clean their ears with a veterinarian-approved solution and keep them dry. |
| Glaucoma | Increased pressure inside the eye that can lead to blindness. | Regular eye exams by a veterinarian are crucial for early detection. |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | A condition where the discs between the vertebrae bulge or rupture, putting pressure on the spinal cord. | Maintain a healthy weight and avoid excessive jumping. |
| Obesity | Basset Hounds are prone to weight gain due to their love of food and relatively low activity levels. | Feed a measured amount of high-quality food and provide regular exercise. |
Managing Drool: A Basset Hound Reality
Drooling is an unavoidable aspect of owning a Basset Hound. Their loose jowls simply make it impossible to contain all the saliva. Here’s how to manage it:
- Keep Towels Handy: Always have a towel nearby to wipe up drool.
- Consider Bibs: Some owners use bibs to catch excess drool.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Regularly bathe your Basset Hound to prevent skin irritation from drool.
- Accept It: Ultimately, accepting the drool is part of loving a Basset Hound.
Grooming Requirements: Beyond the Drool
While drool management is a primary concern, Basset Hounds also require regular grooming to maintain their health and appearance. This includes:
- Brushing: Brush their short coat several times a week to remove loose hair.
- Ear Cleaning: Clean their ears regularly to prevent infections.
- Nail Trimming: Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
- Wrinkle Cleaning: Clean the wrinkles on their face to prevent bacterial buildup.
Common Mistakes Basset Hound Owners Make
New Basset Hound owners often make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a happy and healthy life for your dog:
- Underestimating Stubbornness: Basset Hounds are independent thinkers and require patient, consistent training.
- Neglecting Ear Care: Their long ears are prone to infections, so regular cleaning is essential.
- Overfeeding: Basset Hounds are prone to obesity, so carefully control their food intake.
- Ignoring Recall Training: Their strong scent-following instincts necessitate thorough recall training to prevent them from wandering off.
- Lack of Socialization: Early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness or aggression.
Finding a Reputable Breeder or Rescue
If you’ve decided that a Basset Hound is right for you, it’s important to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization.
- Reputable Breeders: Will health test their dogs, be knowledgeable about the breed, and provide a clean and healthy environment.
- Rescue Organizations: Offer Basset Hounds in need of loving homes and can provide valuable information about the breed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Basset Hounds hard to own? Consider the following FAQs to get a better understanding of the challenges and rewards of owning a Basset Hound.
Are Basset Hounds good family dogs?
Yes, Basset Hounds are generally considered excellent family dogs. They are known for their gentle, patient, and tolerant nature, making them well-suited for households with children. They also typically get along well with other pets.
How much exercise do Basset Hounds need?
While Basset Hounds aren’t high-energy dogs, they still need regular exercise. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of walking each day to keep them healthy and happy. Be mindful of their short legs and avoid strenuous activities.
Do Basset Hounds bark a lot?
Basset Hounds are known to be vocal dogs. They may bark or howl when left alone, bored, or when they detect an interesting scent. Early training and socialization can help manage excessive barking. However, some vocalization should be expected from this breed.
Are Basset Hounds easy to train?
No, Basset Hounds are not considered easy to train. They are known for their stubbornness and independent thinking. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods.
What is the average lifespan of a Basset Hound?
The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is 10-12 years. Providing proper care, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and veterinary checkups, can help them live long and happy lives.
What are some common health problems in Basset Hounds?
Some common health problems in Basset Hounds include bloat, ear infections, glaucoma, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and obesity. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for early detection and management.
How much does it cost to own a Basset Hound?
The cost of owning a Basset Hound can vary, but you can expect to spend around $1,000-$2,000 per year on food, vet care, grooming, and other expenses. This estimate does not include any potential medical emergencies that might arise.
Do Basset Hounds need a lot of grooming?
While their short coat is relatively low-maintenance, Basset Hounds do require regular grooming. This includes brushing, ear cleaning, nail trimming, and wrinkle cleaning. Regular grooming helps prevent skin and ear problems.
Are Basset Hounds good for apartment living?
Basset Hounds can be suitable for apartment living if their exercise needs are met and their vocal tendencies are managed. However, their barking and howling may be a nuisance to neighbors in close quarters.
What should I feed my Basset Hound?
Feed your Basset Hound a high-quality dog food that is formulated for their age and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as they are prone to obesity. Consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.
Are Basset Hounds prone to separation anxiety?
Yes, Basset Hounds can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if left alone for long periods. Providing them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship can help prevent separation anxiety. Early crate training and socialization can also be beneficial.
How can I prevent my Basset Hound from wandering off?
Due to their strong scent-following instincts, it’s crucial to keep Basset Hounds on a leash when outdoors and to ensure your yard is securely fenced. Microchipping is essential for easy identification if they do get lost. Also begin recall training from the moment you get them home.