Is a Basset Hound Right for Your Family?

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Because of their friendly traits, Basset Hounds are great family dogs! Their kind nature and spunky personality makes them a great fit for many homes.

Basset Hounds are one of the most easy going and pleasant-natured breeds in the dog world. They are known for their social and silly demeanor, and their ability to make friends with just about anyone.

Because of their friendly traits, Basset Hounds are great family dogs! Their kind nature and spunky personality makes them a great fit for many homes.

While Basset Hounds are a popular breed, they do come with their own set of quirks that should be understood before bringing a Basset Hound in to your home.

Are Basset Hounds good with kids?

When searching for a breed that does well around kids, Basset Hounds will usually make the list. Their playful nature makes for a perfect companion for a child in search of a furry friend. Basset Hounds are kind and well-natured, so you can trust that you will have the perfect companion for you and your family.

Bassets are known to provide hours of entertainment with their silly antics and playful behaviors. Having children in your home can be better for this breed in the long run, as they love the stimulation of activity and play.

Basset Hound’s can help enrich your family’s life with their desire for daily activity and stimulation. Daily walks and family play time are a Basset’s favorite past time!

One thing to keep in mind is the possibility of injury with rough play. Basset Hounds have an elongated back, leaving them prone to back injuries. Teaching your children to avoid strain on your Basset Hound’s back will help to prevent any possible trauma. Having healthy boundaries with your family and your Basset will help create a lasting friendship.

Are Basset Hounds hypoallergenic?

A hypoallergenic dog is a breed that is known to shed significantly less than others, and one who releases overall less pet dander.

Though Basset Hounds have short hair, they are not hypoallergenic for those who are prone to allergies. Bassets are known to be quite the opposite, as they shed more than the average dog. Though they are not best for those with dog allergies, regular grooming and baths can help to prevent the shedding of additional pet dander. Daily brushing can significantly reduce the shedding of a Basset Hound.

Another factor to keep in mind is the large amount of drool that they produce. For those that have allergies to pet dander, drool can be quite irritating as well. There are not many preventative options when it comes to limiting their drool production, so this will have to be a trait that you are comfortable with.

Do Basset Hounds shed a lot?

Basset Hounds are known for their profuse shedding. While they may shed more than the average dog, regular brushing can help to prevent the large amount of pet dander that they can produce. Implementing daily brushing into your family’s schedule can help to significantly reduce the amount of shedding in your home.

Are Basset Hounds aggressive or dangerous?

Basset Hounds are known as one of the most well-natured Hounds. If you are searching for a breed that is social with children and other dogs, then a Basset Hound may be perfect for you. Socialization comes quite easily to a Basset, and it is rare to come across an aggressive Basset that has been raised in a proper environment. They are often at the top of the list when searching for a kind breed of dog!

In terms of danger, the biggest risk factor is their bulky size. Some people are quite surprised when meeting a Basset Hound, as they are quite large and low to the ground. Because of their shape, control of a Basset can be quite difficult. Obedience and leash training will help your Basset to become more manageable in your home.

One other trait to keep in mind about the Basset Hound is their stubborn temperament. Though they are kind, they are known to be quite hard headed, and can be more difficult to train because of this. With their goofy behavior and their will power combined, they are not quick to obey. If you plan on bringing a Basset into your home, get ready to implement some structured training.

Do Basset Hounds bark a lot?

If you are looking for a quiet and reserved breed, a Basset Hound is not for you. A part of a Basset Hound’s charm is their unique personality, which comes with some noisy traits.

Bassets love to howl and bay at any given chance. They are extremely vocal, and love the chance to show off their unique personality. Whether they are howling out of boredom or just to say hello, you will know a Basset Hound is in the room!

Their loud personality can make training a bit difficult at times. They are known to howl when in their crate, left at home, or even back talking when they feel like being sassy!

Though all this extra noise can be overwhelming, it also adds to their quirkiness. If you are okay with a little extra spunk, then a Basset Hound will be a hilarious addition to your home.

Are Basset Hounds good for an apartment?

A dog’s ability to do well in an apartment is a loaded question, as I believe that the situation is absolutely what you make of it. Basset Hounds do require daily play and stimulation, so they would require the extra effort when living in an apartment.

As long as you are willing to incorporate daily play time, walks, brushing, and any other activity that can benefit their mental wellness, then I believe they could do just fine living in an apartment. The lack of these options for daily release of energy could result in undesirable behaviors, and destructive activities.

When living in an apartment, it’s best to consider an option with few stairs if possible. Due to a Basset Hound’s bone structure, daily exposure to stairs and the physical stress of going up stairs can be damaging to their joints.Overall, having a Basset Hound in an apartment will depend on the daily habits of your family, and how much time you are willing to spend with your pup.

Are there any health concerns?

Though Bassets have many positive traits that help us to fall in love, they do come with their own set of medical risks. While these medical threats should not scare you away from the breed, it’s best to be aware of them when choosing to add them to your family. Awareness can help to prevent these possible medical dangers!

Obesity – Due to their unique body shape, it can be easy for a Basset to become overweight. Appropriate exercise is crucial for a Basset Hounds overall health. A healthy diet should also be discussed with your local veterinarian.
Back and joint injury – A Basset Hound’s elongated back and short limbs brings the opportunity to an easier injury to these areas. Avoid any activities that could strain their back, and any excessive strain on their tiny legs. Vigorous activity should be limited, or closely monitored.
Gastric torsion – Basset Hounds may be short, but they have very deep shaped chests. Any breeds that have a deep chest are at risk for gastric torsion, which is the flipping of the stomach. The best way to avoid this serious medical condition is to limit activity for one hour after eating, slow down their eating if they eat quickly, and to monitor them closely after eating when possible.
Ear infections: Their large hears can make for a perfect environment for an ear infection to brew. Keep a close eye on their ears, and discuss how often you should clean their ears with your local vet.
Eyelid abnormalities – Basset Hounds are prone to a condition called Entropion. This is when the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation to the eye. If you ever see any changes in the eye of your Basset Hound, make an appointment with your local vet.

Summary

Some key things to take from this article when deciding to adopt a Basset Hound are:

They are great with kids, and can be the furry friend that your child has always dreamed of.
They are a social breed, so they are easier to introduce to other dogs than some other breeds might be.
They do shed quite a lot, but frequent brushing and baths can help to limit this.
Basset Hounds are incredibly kind-natured, but can be a bit stubborn. You may have to be a bit more diligent when it comes to their training.
Basset Hounds will provide you with endless hours of humor with their loud personalities. Bassets are known to howl and bay at any given moment, so you must know that you are bringing a dog with a loud opinion into your home.
They do have a list of possible health concerns, but being aware of them will help to ensure a healthy future for your Basset Hound.

Overall, Basset Hounds can make a great addition to any family. If you are willing to be invested in your dog’s daily behaviors, then a Basset can be an absolute joy to have in your home.