How to Enjoy a Bloodhound

If you are a fastidious and meticulous individual that wants a dog that will sit, stay and obey on command, then a bloodhound is probably not the dog for you. But if you want a sweet and friendly dog that may not always heed your orders and is prone to slobbering, then a bloodhound may be the pet that you've been looking for. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide if your home and lifestyle can accommodate a bloodhound. You will need a large yard with a sturdy fence that is at least 5 feet high, and you will need to have plenty of time to exercise and play with your dog.
2. Find a breeder online. Most will have pictures of their available pups. The main color choices for a bloodhound are: black and tan, liver and tan and all red.
3. Walk your bloodhound. Tracking dogs, like bloodhounds, need to be treated to a long and vigorous walk, every single day. If you have a busy schedule, you should either consider another breed or invest in a dog walker.
4. Use patience when teaching basic tricks, like come and sit. Bloodhounds are easily distracted by the scents that they pick up, so training your dog will take time. But, bloodhounds, by nature, are not the very obedient; so be prepared for a dog that will only listen to you some of the time.
5. Clean, clean, clean. Though wonderful companions, bloodhounds can be very messy. They are infamous slobberers and will leave their drool all over your home. They can also shed a great deal in cold climates and during the winter months, so be prepared to bath and brush them often.
6. Enjoy your bloodhound. Bloodhounds can live up to 13 years, so take care of your buddy and you will have many years of enjoyment together.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to involve your bloodhound in shows or sport, contact the American Kennel Club and the American Bloodhound Club.
• Bloodhounds can never be walked without a leash. One good scent and they'll be gone. Bloodhounds are known to wander into busy roads while distracted by a scent, so keep you new pal safe, and on the leash.
• Bloodhounds have a tendency to bloat, a condition where the stomach becomes overstretched by gas. This is a serious condition that can be avoided by not allowing the dog to drink or eat too much when it is overheated.