Basset Hound

As a descendant from the Bloodhound, the Basset Hound an outstanding sense of smell. They are also known for their long ears. It is a hunting dog that can hunt alone or in packs either in the open or a den. They are used to hunt hares, foxes, opossums, and pheasants. Although their reflexes are a bit slow, they have an excellent sense of smell. Also, because their slowness means that hunters can follow them easier and are less likely to scare game that is out of reach.

Basset hounds are known for their droopy ears and soulful eyes

Basset hounds are a short and heavy dog. Their head is big yet well proportioned, and have a rounded skull. Their muzzle is deep and heavy. They have beautiful soft, brown eyes that have a sad look to them. Their long ears are famous for hanging towards the ground. Their coat is dense, short, hard, and shiny. Unlike other breeds, there are no set rules for its colour, however it is usually either tan, black, white, red, chestnut and white, or have sand-coloured markings.

If you are considering owning a basset hound and have a family, you will be pleased to know that they are dogs perfect for families with children. They have a well-behaved, sweet, loyal, peaceful, and gentle temperament. They are always friendly, and never moody, harsh, and vicious. However, basset hounds can be a bit stubborn if its owners are meek so they need a master that is firm, consistent, and confident.

Like all dogs, they do need to know the house rules. Housebreaking is difficult, but with some positive reinforcement and patient training, they will be obedient. As they are hunting dogs, it may be hard to get their attention once they have picked up a smell as they will follow their nose and not your voice.

Chasing a ball

Basset hounds are good for apartments. This is because they are very inactive indoors, but outdoors they will run for hours. A yard is not necessary, but they need plenty of opportunities to go out to play and run around to keep it healthy as it can be prone to being overweight. If it is overweight, it will place stress on their back. As a result, a good and long daily walk is necessary, however you should discourage your dog from jumping otherwise it will place stress on its front knees. Make sure that you are walking and playing your dog in a safe environment because as mentioned above, if they pick up a scent, they will most likely not hear you because they want to catch that critter on the other end.

Basset hounds shed their fur constantly. They also need to be groomed regularly. The smooth, short-haired coat basset hound is easy to groom. All you need to do is to comb and brush the dog with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo it when necessary. However, its toenails should be trimmed regularly and ears should be wiped weekly.