Alice White
Basset Hound refers to dog breeds that were bred to hunt small animals, such as rabbits. Dogs of this breed are considered excellent family members who are very fond of children.
The Basset Hound has long been particularly popular. It can often be found in various commercials, as well as in the homes and lawns of many families who wish to have a good and devoted four-legged friend. The noble appearance and loyal character make this dog an excellent pet for almost any family.
Future owners of Basset Hounds often have questions about the character, content of the dog, etc. We have selected the most frequently asked questions and answered them in this article.
Is it difficult to care for a Basset Hound’s coat?
The Basset Hound does not need careful grooming. Its short, tough coat is good at repelling dirt and water. It is enough to comb the dog once a week to remove dead hairs. You can bathe your dog only 4-6 times a year, the rest of the time you can wipe it with a hard glove or brush, thereby removing dirt. Through regular grooming, the emotional bond between the owner and his pet is enhanced.
Can Basset Hounds swim?
They can, but with certain difficulties. 2/3 of the Basset Hound’s weight comes from the front of the body, and with these short legs, they can only swim short distances, and even then with difficulty. If you are on a boat with your dog, you should take care of a dog’s life jacket or another suitable flotation device.
Never leave your dog unattended near the swimming pool. If your Basset Hound loves to climb into the pool, teach him how to get ashore.
Do Basset Hounds have disadvantages?
Yes, there are drawbacks (this does not mean that your dog should have the entire list of shortcomings, which is published below, everything is very individual and depends on many factors):
- dogs howl when they are alone for a long time (and their voice is loud!),
- like to wander, leaving the site, or if they are taken outside without a leash,
- they love to eat, so they will definitely go for the “tasty smell”, even if it is across the street or in another house,
- carried away by some trace, they are poorly oriented and, as a result, cannot find their way home,
- drool and can stain everything around them (for some people this causes unpleasant emotions),
- not very neat when they eat,
- very stubborn.
Will a Basset Hound be a good companion?
Yes, this is one of the breeds that are best suited for family life. They are very loyal and treat all family members equally well. They are very kind, sweet, loving creatures, although sometimes they are quite stubborn.
They get along well with other pets. For a protective dog, they have little aggression, but they can be taught to bark at unfamiliar noise. If the dog is not taught this, then it will simply sniff the stranger and return to its favorite place.
Basset Hounds are very versatile dogs. They can play with the child, go hunting with the owner, just quietly sit next to the hostess.
How much do Basset Hounds eat?
Adult Basset Hounds eat 2-4 cups of food a day. Basset Hounds often gain excess weight, as they look at the owner with such a pitiful look that he simply cannot refuse them an extra portion of the feed.
Gluttony is dangerous for dogs of any breed. Don’t give too many treats. Limit yourself to quality, well-balanced dry food, and canned food. Many experts argue that it is not necessary to give your dog any kind of nutritional supplements when using premium food.
If you think you need to give vitamins, then check with your veterinarian.
How much physical activity do Basset Hounds need?
Basset Hound puppies should not be overloaded, as their paws carry a powerful heavy skeleton. Pay attention to protecting the front of the puppy’s torso when he jumps from somewhere – from a ladder, from a chair, etc.
What is the life expectancy of a Basset Hound?
The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is a very broad figure that only provides a rough estimate of how long a dog will live. Basset Hounds live roughly 10-12 years, but some owners disagree with this statistic. The owners claim that their pets have lived for more than 15 years with proper full-fledged care.
Is the Basset Hound a healthy breed?
The Basset Hound breed is prone to certain diseases. In order to reduce their occurrence to zero, choose an experienced breeder and good grandparents.
Possible diseases of the breed:
- volvulus;
- von Willebrand disease;
- lameness not associated with joint dysplasia;
- glaucoma;
- allergies;
- dislocation of the patella;
- vascular thrombosis;
- twist of the century;
- back problems;
- ear infections;
- obesity;
- adenoma of the third century.
