How to Select a Basset Hound

The basset hound was originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits. The breed's long ears and wrinkly skin were developed to stir up and hold a scent while tracking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dental Kits (for Dogs)
• Dog Beds
• Dog Brushes
• Dog Dishes
• Dog Flea/tick Control Medication
• Dog Food
• Dog Leashes
• Dog Shampoo
• Dog Toys
• Nail Clippers For Dogs

1. Choose a basset hound if you want a friendly, loyal, calm companion. They are not aggressive watchdogs.
2. Try a basset if you're looking for a good family dog. They are very tolerant and gentle with children.
3. Realize that basset hounds slobber much more than other breeds. The No. 1 reason people give up their bassets is because they drool too much.
4. Adopt a basset with confidence if you have other pets; they get along well with everyone.
5. Make no mistake, this dog may be short, but he is a large ' and sturdy ' pet. Adult males weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and stand less than 15 inches at the shoulder. The female is usually about 10 pounds lighter and an inch shorter than the male.
6. Expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a good-quality dog.
7. Consider adopting a basset hound from a rescue group. Many are already housebroken and finished with the chewing stage. There is usually nothing wrong with the dog; most often, the owners didn't research the breed and later discovered that they were incompatible.
8. Remember that bassets tend to be somewhat stubborn, which means that you must be consistent and patient while training them.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you or someone in your home is willing to spend 30 to 60 minutes a day playing with and exercising the dog.
• Keep your basset in a secure yard; the breed has a tendency to wander and will get lost.
• Remember that hounds often howl when left alone for too long.
• Avoid buying a "rare blue basset." This dog (which is really gray) carries a recessive gene that predisposes it to intestinal problems, food allergies and severe skin problems. Don't buy from a person who sells blue bassets, since a responsible breeder wouldn't intentionally sell a defective dog.