Is a Basset Hound the Best Pet for Your Family? – The pros and cons
Find out why a Basset Hound will or will not make a good pet
Basset Hounds are a favorite breed because they are very good-natured, laid-back, level-headed, and calm. Even with all these great attributes, there are a number of things that are not so great. No matter how many bad things people bring up, a Basset Hound owner will be able to overlook them and say that their pets are the best in the world. Here are the good points along with the bad points so that you can decide whether a Basset Hound pet will be right for your family.
Pros:
Bassets are independent problem solvers and are quite intelligent, probably due to their hunting genes. They love the outdoors and are perfect for a family that enjoys hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
They are a social and personable breed not only with people, but with other dogs and cats as well. Your Basset Hound pet will enjoy being physically close to his humans and with proper training he will be good with children.
Their coats are easy to maintain even with all their shedding. Brushing every day will keep the shedding to a minimum and will be something to look forward to. Basset Hounds are generally a healthy breed.
Having fun seems to be their favorite pastime as they happily go through life.
Cons:
Bassets cannot swim due to their heavy torsos and short legs. They are short, but, due to their long bodies, they can reach things on tables. Their long ears can lead to ear discomfort, while eye disorders are possible because the folds under the eyes can collect dirt and cause infections.
A Basset Hound as a pet likes to lie down, so you should exercise him regularly to maintain a healthy weight. This breed has a tendency to drool, which is messy and can cause yeast infections around the mouth if it is not kept clean.
Since they are trackers, finding a scent and following it is what they do best, which means it can be a challenge to control them because they are so strong. When you walk your Basset Hound pet you should keep him on a leash. If they find a scent they like, they will take off and not hear a single command to return. Molting is an ongoing situation with Basset Hounds, but can be controlled with regular brushing. His doggy smell is a turnoff for some people.
House training can be a real challenge, especially when we are puppies, but it must be done. Cage training is the best way to do this as it gives them a safe place to be while you are away. General training should be done with lots of love and patience, as your Basset Hound pet can be stubborn and independent. Do not discipline them, as they will hurt their feelings and then they will sulk. Many times the best way to train them is with food.
You should not leave your Basset Hound outside alone, as they have a tendency to howl or howl when they are alone. Neighbors will not appreciate this and many will not tolerate it. Bassets can be various garbage containers. Keep your trash covered at all times.
If a brisk walk with your dog is important to you, a Basset Hound pet may not be the right choice. Their short legs and crawling instincts can make walking with them a slow activity. Because they are long and low, they may have back problems and may need help getting into a high space (a car, for example).
While Basset Hounds are an overall healthy breed, a major problem they can have is thrombopathy (a bleeding disorder). Typically, purchasing your pet from a reputable breeder will minimize this problem along with any other.
Even with this long list of flaws, the typical Basset Hound owner will tell you that the good traits far outweigh the bad when it comes to them. Probably the first time you look them in the eye is when you decide that this could be the ideal pet for you. Before deciding one way or another, visit a local breeder and some owners. You are likely to leave with a new love for these unique pets. If you are an active family with the willpower and good humor to train them, then a Basset Hound pet could be what you are looking for.