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 easy-going. 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 them off and say that 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 pet will be right for his family.
Advantage:
Bassets are capable of independent problem solving and are quite intelligent, likely 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 pet Basset Hound 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 be something to look forward to. In general, Basset Hounds are a healthy breed.
Having fun seems to be their favorite pastime as they go through life happily.
Cons:
Bassets cannot swim due to their heavy torsos and short legs. They are small, but due to 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 infections.
A Basset Hound pet likes to just lie around, so exercise him 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 trackers, finding a scent and following it is what they do best, which means it can be challenging to control them because they are so strong. When you walk your Basset Hound pet, you should keep him on a leash. If they find a scent they like, they’ll take off and not hear a single command to return. Shedding is an ongoing situation with Basset Hounds, but can be controlled with regular brushing. His dog-like scent is a turnoff for some people.
House training can be a real challenge, especially when they are puppies, but it must be done. Crate training is the best way to do this, as it gives them a safe place to be while you’re gone. General training will need to be done with a lot of love and patience, as your Basset Hound pet 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 Basset Hound pet outside alone, as they tend to bark or howl when left alone. 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 Basset Hound as a pet 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 low, they may have back problems and may need help getting into a high space (a car, for example).
While Basset Hounds are an overall healthy breed, one major problem they can have is thrombopathy (a bleeding disorder). Normally 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 when it comes to them. The first time you meet his eyes is probably when he decides that this might be the ideal pet for you. Before deciding on one way or the other, 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 necessary willpower and good humor to train them, then a Basset Hound as a pet might be what you are looking for.