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There’s so much to consider before bringing a dog home. For instance, do you have the space, time, and resources to care for an animal? Also, if you have children, an important question is whether the pet will be a good fit for everyone in the household. In the case of a Basset Hound, you can rest easy knowing that this dog will get along great with your kids. Keep reading to learn more about how well this breed interacts with families, other canines, and strangers.
Basset Hound Temperament
Before bringing any dog home, you’ll want to learn a little about their general temperament. The Basset Hound is known for their charming personality, exemplary patience, and low-key demeanor. Due to their calm and laidback nature, they have garnered a reputation for being a bit of a couch potato.
The Basset Hound can be difficult to train because of its willful personality, but that does not mean training is impossible. With persistence and dedication, an experienced dog owner can train them. An inexperienced owner may struggle with the Basset Hound’s stubborn aloofness.
Due to their easygoing personality, the Basset Hound makes an excellent companion for anyone who prefers to stay indoors. Still, this dog (like any) will need adequate time outdoors.
How Well Do Basset Hounds Do With Families?
Basset Hounds are great with families. They’re known to be moderately affectionate, but their main strength comes from their loyalty. Few creatures on the planet will be as steadfast and dedicated to you and your family as this breed.
Basset Hounds are excellent family pets due to their friendly personalities and playful streak. Plus, their low-energy nature means they can snuggle indoors with the family without needing to tear around the house first.
How Well Do Basset Hounds Do With Other Dogs?
Basset Hounds get along great with other dogs. They are known to be friendly and willing to accept a new dog’s presence in the home.
However, it is important to properly socialize your Basset Hound to ensure that unfamiliar faces are not met with aggression or fear. Likewise, a proper introduction will be necessary to make sure your pup and the new dog do not get off on the wrong paw. Take your time with introductions, and keep the dogs separated until it is time to bring them together. This process can take days or weeks, so don’t rush it.
How Well Do Basset Hounds Do With Strangers?
Basset Hounds are moderately reserved regarding strangers, but with enough time and encouragement, they can view visitors as new friends. If you’re looking for a guard dog, the Basset Hound is not the way to go. They will alert you of a stranger, but beyond that, there isn’t much that they will do about an intruder. They are somewhat vigilant but willing to step aside and allow anyone inside the home.
How Often Do Basset Hounds Bark?
Basset Hounds are vocal dogs. They bark at threats, neighbors, or squirrels running in the yard. If you live in an apartment or a location with a strict policy on noise pollution, you must control the dog’s urge to bark before it spirals out of control. Considering how difficult the Basset Hound can be to train, it isn’t going to be easy, but it will be necessary if you want to live in a home that isn’t filled with barking.
What Does Caring for a Basset Hound Look Like?
Properly caring for a dog is the primary responsibility of the owner. Beyond ensuring that your Basset Hound is getting a healthy diet and seeing the vet regularly, you must also take care of their grooming, exercise, and training needs.
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Grooming
Basset Hounds don’t shed much but require more maintenance than the average dog. Although this breed has a short, sleek coat, they require frequent brushing to ensure that their fur doesn’t spread throughout the house. Brushing your dog once weekly is a good way to keep the shedding to a minimum.
Also, the folds of your Basset Hound’s skin may need extra cleaning. Their skin can accumulate grease without proper cleaning, leading them to smell bad. Bathing them at least every 3 weeks is an excellent way to prevent your dog from producing too much grease on their skin.
Exercise
While Basset Hounds are moderately energetic, they have excellent stamina. They need regular exercise, but it should not be too strenuous. Daily, moderate exercise is perfect for this pup, such as a medium-length walk in the park.
Training
Training ensures your dog’s safety and ability to adjust to unfamiliar situations. Although the Basset Hound can be independent and stubborn, it is possible to train them effectively. To build a training foundation, focus on early socialization and providing treats for obedience.
Conclusion
Basset Hounds are excellent pets for families due to their charming demeanor and friendliness around children. While this breed may be challenging to train and requires extra grooming care, they make an excellent companion for any family.
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Featured Image Credit: Jon Buscall, Shutterstock
