What should you know before buying a basset hound puppy?
Basset hounds are some of the sweetest dog breeds. Besides their distinctive appearance, basset hounds are also beloved for their gentle nature and eagerness to please.
The breed is family-oriented too, making it paw-fect for households with kids and other pets. Basset hounds are also high-energy dogs. Even if you don’t intend to enroll them in local canine sporting tournaments, having these gentle giants around can help you keep up with your morning runs.
However, there are specific issues to settle before bringing a basset hound puppy home. Read below as we shed more light on that.
1) Not every breeder is credible
When looking for basset hound puppies for sale, you may often have to choose between dog rescue shelters and breeding homes. Insist on getting the pup from a breeding facility.
More importantly, research a breeder’s reputation before buying a basset hound. Seek out ethical breeders who place canine health above the bottom line.
Besides, proper health records must be obtained before buying a basset hound pup. The document should detail any underlying medical conditions, genetic predispositions, received vaccinations, vaccination schedule, and the breed’s personality.
2) Observe early warning signs of danger
Basset hounds are generally adorable. But since each animal is unique, it’s best to observe a pup for any behavioral issues.
Closely watch how a basset hound puppy interacts with his handlers and other dogs at the breeding facility. Especially pay attention to signs of aggression and anxiety.
Besides, use the opportunity to watch out for any health concerns. Limping, fatigue, and excessive sleepiness are reliable red flags of an unhealthy pup.
3) Size matters
The basset hound is a relatively large dog breed. Mature males are 12 – 15 inches (30 – 38 centimeters) tall, while females stand at 11 – 14 inches (28 – 36 centimeters) tall.
In terms of weight, male basset hounds weigh in at 66 – 75 pounds (25 – 34 kilograms) while females weigh 45 – 65 pounds (20 – 29 kilograms).
For perspective, mature basset hounds are difficult to lift. Keep that in mind before bringing these gentle giants to a storied home.
The basset hound’s size is also worth considering if you’ll be keeping the dog in a kennel or a dedicated room.
4) Easygoing personality can be a blessing or a drawback
Basset hounds are social dogs. Thanks to their friendly personality, the breed is excellent for households with kids and other pets.
Basset hounds are remarkably intelligent, too. They’re smart enough to avert conflicts with other pets while acknowledging their position in the family’s hierarchical structure.
However, the basset hound’s easygoing personality can turn them into wanderers if not restrained. The dog may stray into unfenced yards in the neighborhood, where they could face vicious attacks by other dogs.
5) Make sufficient provision for exercise
All dogs require regular exercise to stay in shape. Among the key benefits of dog walking are relieving anxiety, elevating mood, and minimizing the risks of chronic illnesses.
Basset hounds notably require plenty of exercise, due to their high energy levels and eagerness to please. The dog’s daily routine should include at least one long walk or playing the game of fetch.
However, ensure you’re in complete control when exercising your basset hound. Restrain the dog from jumping aimlessly or wandering off track to explore nearby scents.
Regular training can also help to manage undesirable basset hound behaviors, including excessive barking and digging.
6) Establish a family pecking order
While basset hounds are intelligent, they can be quite obstinate. One way to manage their stubbornness is by establishing a pecking order in the family before adoption.
When you bring a basset hound pup home, immediate training is necessary to help the dog understand its position in the family hierarchy. An ideal pecking order would place all humans first. That includes kids. Other resident pets follow suit, with your newly adopted pup coming third.
You can reinforce the pecking order by prioritizing feeding, grooming, and petting.
7) Don’t forget grooming and veterinary visits
The basset hound’s smooth, shorthaired coats make them remarkably easy to groom. Simply comb or brush the dog’s fur with a firm bristle, applying shampoo only when required.
However, note that the basset hound is a constant shedder. So, regular grooming is necessary to keep your pup’s coat healthy and radiant.
Remember to wipe your basset hound’s ears weekly and trim the toenails every fortnight.
Above all, keep up with all scheduled vet visits. It helps diagnose medical issues early enough and treat them before they escalate into full-blown diseases.
Regular checkups can also uncover issues with your basset hound’s grooming, diet, and exercise routine, enabling you to adjust appropriately.
Think before you give a basset hound a home
Basset hounds are undeniably adorable. However, they can be challenging due to their exercise requirements and strong wills. Adequate preparation is critical before bringing this dog breed home.
Ensure you understand the basset hound’s physical characteristics and personality. This is particularly important if you have kids or other resident pets.
Besides, supply your basset hound with the recommended nutritional and exercise needs. Despite being an active breed, exposing the dog to a sedentary lifestyle can lead to severe chronic illnesses.
More importantly, schedule regular visits to your vet. Routine medical examinations can uncover early warning signs of disease and treat the conditions before they take a toll on your basset hound’s health.
