Alice White
Basset Hound dogs are a good confirmation that appearance is not the main thing. Clumsy, short-footed, and very sad in appearance, in fact, they are quite active and mobile, belong to the class of hunting breeds that track their prey on the blood trail.
How Long Do Bassets Live?
On average, the breed lives between 10 and 12 years, which is the standard for medium-sized dogs. Some owners and breeders do not always agree with these numbers, claiming that bassets can live up to 15 years if they are properly cared for.
Factors affecting the lifespan of Basset are:
Food. A properly formulated diet allows the dog to remain healthy and active as long as possible. Junk food and large portions can trigger diabetes and obesity.
Walking. Insufficient physical activity affects not only the state of Basset’s body but also leaves an emotional mark. Without walking, which allows you to do what you love – hunting and stalking, the dog can become sad and depressed.
Pregnancy. The use of Basset girls for the constant production of new offspring will significantly shorten their life since pregnancies weaken the body and provoke hormonal changes.
Medical supervision. Without vaccinations, a dog walking on the street runs the risk of picking up both minor and deadly infectious diseases.
In addition, bassets need constant ear examinations, eye cleaning, and hygiene procedures. Saliva accumulating in the folds of the skin, if not wiped off, contributes to the development of dermatological diseases, uncleaned ears itch, and hurt.
Diseases of the Basset Hound
Bassets usually do not bring much trouble to owners of diseases, but, like every single breed, they have a list of “their” diseases:
Glaucoma, which is a consequence of the structure and shape of the eyelids.
Allergy. The need for tracking and sniffing sometimes turns into an allergy to pollen from flowers and plants.
Otitis. Abnormal ear shape contributes to the development of many hearing problems, including otitis externa.
Cysts and fungus. Due to the fact that the paws of the basset are very large between the toes, they often form cysts and the fungus is active. Daily treatment of paws with special wax will help to avoid such a problem.
Volvulus of the stomach. A broad chest is the main predisposing factor for digestive problems. At the first symptoms of a malfunction of the stomach and intestines, the dog should be immediately taken to the veterinarian.
Poor blood clotting. The disease is hereditary and can be traced back to the lineage.
Temporary lameness. Sometimes puppies start to limp after emotional overexcitation. It is not completely known what exactly provokes the pathology, but in most cases, by 1-2 years, it disappears without a trace.
To prolong the life of a beloved long-eared aristocrat basset, the owner can take careful care and attention. If the dog is full (not overfed), walked, washed, and vaccinated, most of the acquired diseases will not be scary to him.
