Find out why a Basset Hound will or will not make a good pet
Basset Hounds are a favorite breed because they are good-natured, laid-back, even-tempered, and calm. Even with all these great attributes, there are a number of things that aren’t so great. No matter how many bad things people mention, a Basset Hound owner will be able to brush it off and say his pets are the best in the world. Below, he’ll find the good points along with the bad so he can decide if a Basset Hound as a pet will be right for his family.
Advantages:
Bassets are capable of independent problem solving and are quite intelligent, probably due to their hunting genes. They love the outdoors and are perfect for a family that enjoys hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
It is a social and good-natured breed not only with people, but also with other dogs and cats. Your Basset Hound pet will enjoy being physically close to his humans and with proper training he is good with children.
Their coats are easy to maintain even with all their shedding. Brushing every day will keep shedding to a minimum and will be something they look forward to. In general, Basset Hounds are a healthy breed.
Having fun seems to be their favorite pastime as they happily go through life.
Cons:
Bassets cannot swim due to their heavy torsos and short legs. They are small, but because of their long bodies, they can reach things on tables. Their long ears can lead to ear ailments, while eye disorders are possible because the folds under the eyes can collect dirt and cause infection.
A Basset Hound pet likes to just lie down, so he should be exercised regularly to maintain a healthy weight. This breed has a tendency to drool, which is messy and can cause yeast infections around the mouth if not kept clean.
Since they are sniffers, finding a scent and following it is what they do best, which means it can be a challenge to control them because they are so strong. When you walk your Basset Hound pet, you should keep it on a leash. If they find a scent they like, they will take off and not hear a single command to return. Shedding is an ongoing situation with Basset Hounds, but it can be controlled with regular brushing. Its doggy smell is a turnoff for some people.
House training can be a real challenge, especially when they are puppies, but it has to be done. Crate training is the best way to do this as it gives them a safe place to be while you are away. General training will need to be done with a lot of love and patience, as your pet Basset Hound can be stubborn and independent. Don’t discipline them, as they will hurt their feelings and then get angry. Many times the best way to train them is with food.
You should not leave your pet Basset Hound outside alone as they tend to bark or howl when they are alone. The neighbors will not appreciate this and many will not tolerate it. Bassets can be various dumpsters. Keep your trash covered at all times.
If a brisk walk with your dog is important to you, a pet Basset Hound may not be the right choice. Their short legs and tracking instinct can make walking with them a slow activity. Because they are long and short, they may have back problems and may need help getting into a tall space (a car, for example).
While Basset Hounds are a generally healthy breed, one major problem they can have is thrombopathy (a bleeding disorder). Typically, buying your pet through a reputable breeder will minimize this problem along with any others.
Even with this long list of faults, the typical Basset Hound owner will tell you that the good traits far outweigh the bad as far as they are concerned. The first time you meet his eyes is probably when he decides that this could be the ideal pet for you. Before deciding on one path or another, he visits a local breeder and some owners. You are likely to walk away with a new love for these unique pets. If you are an active family with the willpower and good humor to train them, then a Basset Hound as a pet could be what you are looking for.
