As the first “Hush Puppy dog,” the Basset Hound Breed is a beloved and renowned canine breed with a historic place. People of all ages loved them because they were identified with the adorable mascot of the well-known shoe business.
Popular characteristics of Basset Hounds are their calm disposition, short height, noble appearance, and exceptional hunting instincts. They have maintained their exceptional scent-hounding skills since they were first bred for small game hunting, especially rabbits. Their charm and usefulness are enhanced by their particular characteristics, including their large, low-set ears and characteristic baying bark. Second only to the Bloodhound, Basset Hounds are scent hounds with a remarkable sense of smell. They often have a traditional tri-color pattern and have short, silky coats with a firm texture that are easy to maintain.
Bassets get along well with families and other pets since they are peaceful, devoted, and gregarious about the house. They can be heavy eaters, so regular exercise prevents weight gain and associated health problems. Long walks are fun for owners and bassets because of their tremendous endurance and love of scent tracking.
Because Bassets can be difficult at times, training them may require patience. These emotionally sensitive canines respond best to training that is gentle and pleasant. Their distinct voices—howls and a murmured whine—make for entertaining talks and frequently result in them receiving delectable delicacies from their devoted owners. Combining their hunting pedigree with a kind and loving nature, Basset Hounds make wonderful family companions. Their kind and laid-back disposition makes them a fantastic addition to any home, even with quirks like howling and drooling.
Basset Hound Size
Medium to huge in stature, the basset hound mixed with pitbull is known for its low-to-the-ground appearance. They usually weigh between fifty and sixty-five pounds and have a shoulder height of thirteen to fifteen inches. Despite their comparatively large weight, Basset Hounds are small, robust dogs. They have a distinctive and charming appearance due to their large, heavy-boned torso and small legs. Bassets can move gracefully and elegantly and are surprisingly agile for their size. Their physical characteristics and funny basset meme, such as their loose, wrinkled skin and drooping ears, add to their endearing and distinctive look, which makes them instantly identifiable and adored by many.
Basset Hound Personality
The basset hound is a laid-back, gregarious canine. They were originally used for pack hunting and got along well with other dogs and pets. Bassets enjoy spending time with youngsters and are people-oriented. Although they are quite intelligent dogs, bassets can inquire about training due to their stubborn nature. A firm, patient hand with lots of imagination is needed to bring out the best in them. Because of their strong feet and claws, bassets tend to dig and can bark loudly. They still strongly desire to hunt and will go hunting alone if they are not securely contained.
Basset Hound Health
Although Basset Hounds are typically strong and healthy canines, they might develop some health issues like any other breed. Even though not all Basset Hounds will experience these problems, it’s still wise to be educated if you’re considering adopting this lemon basset hound. Finding a trustworthy breeder who can provide health clearances for both dogs’ parents becomes crucial when looking for a Basset Hound puppy. These health clearances prove that the dogs have been examined and are free of certain illnesses.
Comprehensive health clearances for Basset Hounds should include tests for von Willebrand’s disease, elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia (with a fair or better score), and hypothyroidism, all of which are approved by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Auburn University’s health clearances for thrombophilia and the Canine Eye Registry Foundation’s (CERF) certification of normal eyes are crucial. A brief visit to the OFA website (offa.org) will yield the required confirmation to validate these clearances.
Knowing possible health issues and working with ethical breeders can enhance your beagle basset hound companion’s longevity and general well-being.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): GDV, sometimes called bloat or stomach torsion, is a potentially fatal illness mainly affecting dogs with deep chests, such as Basset Hounds. It happens when gas or air causes the stomach to swell, twisting to capture the extra air and stop the dog from vomiting or belching. Shock, possible organ damage, and a reduction in blood pressure result from this. Eating one large meal per day, eating quickly, drinking a lot of water after meals, and engaging in intensive exercise right after meals are all variables that can cause GDV. Feeding several smaller meals, refraining from vigorous exercise right after eating, and considering raised feeding dishes to lower the risk of GDV is advised.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: Von Willebrand’s disease is a genetic condition that impairs a dog’s capacity to clot blood, resulting in mild to major bleeding episodes and persistent bleeding. If your Basset Hound exhibits symptoms of profuse bleeding or has a protracted bleeding period, it’s critical to speak with your veterinarian and have it examined for this issue. With the right care and precautions, affected dogs can have normal, contented lives.
- Panosteitis (Wandering or Transient Lameness): Young Basset Hounds frequently suffer from the enigmatic condition known as panosteitis, which causes abrupt episodes of lameness that can range in severity. Inflammation of the long bones, which can cause pain and limping, is the hallmark of this illness. But when they are two years old, most puppies outgrow panosteitis, which rarely causes long-term issues. Owners must be aware of this problem to prevent needless procedures and, if required, seek professional advice.
- Glaucoma: Glaucoma, a disorder where pressure accumulates inside the eye and can induce optic nerve damage and visual loss, is common in Basset Hounds. Glaucoma is painful and needs to be treated by a veterinarian immediately. If you observe any symptoms of squinting, tears, redness, or bulging eyes, take your Basset Hound to the veterinarian for a comprehensive eye exam.
- Allergies: Similar to many other breeds, Basset Hounds may experience allergies related to food, contact (such as bedding or shampoos), or inhalation (due to dust and pollen) allergens. Itching, skin irritation, and ear infections are symptoms that can arise from allergies. Managing allergies in Basset Hounds requires determining the allergen and administering the proper care, which may include medication or dietary changes.
- Patellar Luxation: In petite dog breeds like Basset Hounds, patellar luxation, also called “slipped stifles,” is a common orthopedic problem. It results in lameness and an irregular gait when the patella (knee cap) is not correctly placed within the femur (thigh bone). Dogs may become temporarily lame in moderate situations, but surgery may be necessary in severe cases to realign the patella correctly and stop additional problems like arthritis.
- Thrombopathia: Basset Hounds occasionally have thrombophilia, a blood platelet condition that impairs their capacity to clot blood. Excessive bleeding from small wounds or procedures can result from this disorder. A blood test can verify the diagnosis of thrombopathia in your Basset Hound. Dogs with thrombopathia can enjoy normal, trouble-free lives if you take the right precautions and work with your veterinarian.
- Eyelid and Eyelash Problems: Eyelid disorders that cause lashes to irritate the surface of the eye include ectropion, in which the eyelids turn outward, and entropion, in which the eyelids roll inward, are common in Basset Hounds. These disorders may cause eye damage as well as discomfort and irritation. A veterinarian’s routine eye exams can identify these problems early, and surgery may be required to treat the discomfort and preserve the dog’s eye health.
Basset Hound Mixed with English Bulldog Care
Generally quiet canines, basset hounds thrive in various settings, including apartments and tiny homes. They must live with their family, preferably in a yard, even though they are happy indoors. However, They should not be left outside for extended periods or exposed to extremely high or low temperatures. Even though Basset Hounds live peacefully indoors, they still require regular movement to stay healthy and maintain weight. They will be content with a long stroll and lots of sniffing time, but you don’t want them to become couch potatoes because fat can cause joint pain.
It’s important to keep Bassets in a gated yard or on a leash when they’re outside to discourage them from getting lost after intriguing odors. To prevent undue strain on their back and front legs, limit their use of stairs and discourage them from hopping on and off furniture until they are a year old. Given that Bassets aren’t known for their jumping prowess, giving them a ramp or stairs can be beneficial.
Kindness, consistency, and positive reinforcement—particularly through food rewards and praise—are essential for training Basset Hounds. Strict training techniques will make them less receptive and more obstinate. Make instruction entertaining and intriguing to maintain their interest. When bassets are drawn to something more fascinating, they acquire selective hearing.
Despite their suitability for indoor existence, basset hounds require frequent exercise and training to maintain their health and manners. A well-mannered and obedient Basset companion requires constant training techniques and good reinforcement because they are independent thinkers.
Basset Hound Coat Color And Grooming
In addition to offering sufficient protection in various weather circumstances, Basset Hounds’ sleek, short coat efficiently deters water and filth. They look like adorable droopy hound dogs because of their stretchy and loose skin. However, the breed standard permits all hound colors, tri-color (tan, black, and white), black and white, brown and white, or red and white, to be the most popular. Although it is uncommon, lemon and white are also appropriate. Conversely, gray or blue Basset Hounds are possible, but this coloring is undesirable because of a recessive gene linked to certain genetic issues.
Fortunately, besides the odd drool, facial wrinkles, and the need to wipe their ears, Basset Hounds are comparatively easy to groom. Regular baths are rarely necessary because of their short coats, which protect them from water and filth. They only need a thorough rubdown with a bristle brush, coarse cloth, or hound glove to keep their coat in top shape. They shed all year long, but if you brush them once a week, it shouldn’t be a big deal.
Because their long ears retain dirt, basset hounds may be exposed to ear infections due to inadequate air circulation. It would help if you used your veterinarian’s prescribed solution to clean the inside of their ears at least once a week, wiped the outside to remove debris, used a moist towel to clean any wrinkles on their faces, and completely dried them. Also, look for sores between the toes on their big paws regularly.
Brush your Basset Hound’s teeth twice or thrice a week to control bacteria and tartar from building up and endangering their dental health. Even better, brush every day to avoid foul breath and gum disease. Trim their nails earlier or twice a month; if you hear them clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim.
As a puppy, begin acclimating your corgi basset hound mix to grooming practices by regularly handling its mouth, ears, and paws. Praise and rewards can help make grooming enjoyable, laying the groundwork for simple veterinarian examinations and care as it matures. Your Basset Hound will lead a happy and healthy life if you give it the right attention and maintenance.
History of the Basset Hound
The history of the basset hound dates back to the 1500s, when the French, who lived before the French Revolution, an adult French bulldog used heavy-bodied, low-slung hounds to chase rabbits. The French term “bas” means “low,” which is appropriate given the size of the basset hound. The 1800s saw England refine some short, bowlegged French hunting canines, including the modern-day basset hound. Besides height and leg shape, french bulldog breeders near me are comparable to the St. Hubert’s hound.
In addition to their exceptional scenting abilities, bassets were chosen because hunters could keep up with the slow-moving canines. They were occasionally used to track larger injured game in addition to hunting rabbits and hares.
The Basset swiftly transitioned from hunting dogs to family pets in the US. Nowadays, the basset hound is mostly used as a companion French bulldog Boston terrier mix after becoming popularized by cartoons like Fred the Basset and advertisements like Hush PuppiesTM shoes.
Basset Hound Breed Highlights
Like any hounds, basset hounds can be stubborn and difficult to housetrain and train. Crate training is suggested as a beneficial strategy. These puppies can become single-minded and follow an enticing scent, even if it brings them in danger. Always keep them on a leash when you’re outside, and think about taking obedience classes that use patient, gentle approaches because hounds usually don’t respond well to aggressive training methods.
The loose skin around their lips causes Basset Hounds to drool excessively, one of the main reasons they wind up in shelters or adoption centers. They can also make a big mess when they’re intoxicated. There are better choices than a Basset Hound for people who want a more organized home. This basset hound cocker spaniel mix may experience flatulence, so it is advised to speak with a veterinarian about potential dietary changes.
Because Basset Hounds enjoy overeating, it’s important to control their weight. Instead of following the instructions on the bag or container, dividing their food according to their condition is crucial because this can cause joint and back issues. Feeding them two or three smaller meals rather than one huge meal is preferable because they are prone to bloating. It is also important to check on them after eating to ensure they are doing well.
Basset Hounds’ large ears can retain moisture and debris, leading to ear infections. Therefore, regular ear examinations and cleanings are crucial. These talkative dogs are likely to howl, especially if left alone for long periods. Despite their strength and agility, it’s best to discourage them from jumping, especially when getting out of a car, to avoid getting hurt.
As Basset puppies age, watch out for their joints and avoid overdoing it by not jumping from furniture too much. Because Basset Hounds aren’t very good swimmers, exercise caution around swimming pools to prevent accidents.
Lastly, please ensure the Basset Hound Breed you purchase is healthy and comes from a reliable breeder who checks their pups for genetic illnesses and guarantees good temperaments. Avoid buying from pet shops, puppy factories, and backyard breeders to encourage ethical breeding practices.