Basset Hound
Description
The Basset hound is also known as the “Hush Puppy” dog. Basset Hounds have the head of a bloodhound and the body of a dachshund. The Basset Hound is a short-legged dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed of dog. Movement of Basset Hound is humorous looking and slow, but not clumsy. It is mild, never sharp or timid in manner but sometimes can be stubborn. The Basset hound also can be vocal at times with his charming deep, sonorous bark. The Basset hound is a lovely and amusing household pet for people with a good sense of humor. The Basset Hound is essentially a hunting dog with strong natural instincts and will power. Absolutely obedient and devoted to his master, he makes a wonderful family companion.
Size of Male: Height: <15 inches Weight: 50 – 80 pounds
Size of Female: Height: <15 inches Weight: 40-70 pounds
Temperament
The Basset Hound is sweet, gentle, devoted, peaceful and naturally well-behaved. The Basset Hound fits into family life well. The Basset Hound’s temperament should always be friendly with never an indication of sharpness or viciousness. They are mild but not timid; very affectionate with its master and friendly with children. It is incapable of biting, but it may be a bit stubborn. They like to do tricks for food and it has a deep musical bark. Housebreaking is difficult, but they do well with gentle patient training and positive reinforcement. With proper training, they are obedient, but when they pick up an interesting smell, it’s sometimes hard to get their attention as with other scent hounds.
Living Conditions
The Basset Hound will do ok in an apartment. Basset Hounds are very inactive indoors but outdoors they will run for hours in play if given the chance. Basset Hounds will do okay without a yard, but should be given plenty of opportunities to run and play to keep it healthy. So do make sure you bring your dog outdoors to gt enough exercise each day.
Upkeep
The Basset Hound needs mild daily exercise, which can be satisfied by walking on leash or playing in the yard. Basset Hound does best as a house dog with access to a yard. As with other dogs, exercising is very important to remove misbehavior and make your pet healthy as well. The Basset Hound’s coat needs only minimal grooming, but its face may need regular cleaning around the mouth and wrinkles. Basset hounds also tend to drool.
Health
Major concerns: foreleg lameness, Osteochondrosis dissecans, entropion, ectropion, otitis externa, intervertebral disc disease, glaucoma, von Willebrands disease, Hip dysplasia, gastric torsion
Minor concerns: foot cysts and infection
Life expectancy: 8 – 12 years