Basset Hound Care

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BASSET HOUND FACTS AND CARE

ORIGIN OF THE BASSET HOUND

What is a Basset Hound?
The Basset hound is a long, low, scenting hound of French ancestry. His many admirers consider him to be among the most beautiful and unusual
of all hounds, his dignified look owing in great part to a large, majestic head adorned with long, velvety ears, a wrinkled brow and dark, soulful
eyes. The Basset Hound remains one of the most easily recognizable of all dog breeds.

The Basset Hound originated in sixth-century France, a country know for its many strains of hounds. Most strains had a tall version as well as a
short-legged size under sixteen inches, which were call "basset" (bas in French means low-set). Both the Basset Hound and its long-legged
cousin, the Bloodhound, are thought to be descendants of the famed St. Hubert hounds. St. Hubert, a churchman, was the patron saint of the
hunt, who set out to develop a new strain of hound, which looked similar to today's Bloodhound. Many authorities feel the Basset was a result of
a mutation in the St. Hubert strain. This genetic deviation produced a short-legged, dwarfed hound, whose slower movement and low-set form
was to prove useful for hunters on foot in search of small game. With his long ears helping to stir up the scent, packs of Basset were used to
drive small prey, such as rabbit and hare, from denser undercover into open terrain where hunters could move in for the kill with spears, net or
clubs. The sport of pack hunting with Basset Hound continues to this day in France and England.

        UNDERSTANDING THE BASSET HOUND

The Basset Personality
Despite a deliberate, unhurried manner and captivatingly clownish demeanor, the Basset Hound possesses great intelligence and what may often
be viewed as stubbornness may more appropriately be attributed to an innate ingenuity. In fact, the Basset excels at getting his way, from
"demanding" a taste morsel at the table to hurling his hefty 65 pounds into your lap! His overly long body, short legs and delightful wrinkles
become a kaleidoscope of amusing expressions, all cleverly orchestrated to win us over. And win us over he does. Gentle and sociable in
nature, the easy-going Basset Hound is loyal to master and family, devoted to children and mild-mannered and friendly towards other animals.

PERSONALITY AND PHYSICAL TRAITS OF THE BASSET HOUND

Calm, good-natured and affectionate. Gets along well with people and other dogs and pets. Good with children. Loves to be a lap dog. Not a
good guard dog.
Sensitive and stubborn nature. A Basset takes punishment and reprimands to heart. Can be stubborn and conveniently "hard of hearing."
Pack mentality. A single Basset may not do well left alone for long periods. They need closeness, touching, and petting to be content and
happy.   For working owners, the company of another dog is the next best thing to having you there.
A scent hound. The Basset was bred to trail game. His keen nose can lead him into dangerous situations such as the path of a speeding car or
an unfenced swimming pool.   Bassets do not swim well due to their heavy front ends. The Basset is safest in a secure, enclosed area.
Relatively low activity level. Prone to obesity. Healthy, trim Bassets have good energy levels, but they are also content to snooze away the
afternoon in a patch of warm sun. Although this laid back nature makes them desirable house pets, their weight must be kept in check. A daily
walk with your Basset is recommended.
A large, hefty dog, possessing more bone for its size than any other breed of dog. Although Bassets are
low to the ground, they are not small dogs, with most ranging from 50 to 65 pounds. The average person will have a difficult time lifting an adult
Basset Hound.
A smooth-coated dog. A wash-and-wear dog who may be bathed as frequently as needed. Bassets are either tri-colored (a combination of
black, white and tan or brown) or red-and-white (a lighter red and white may be called lemon-and-white). Coat colors are distributed over the
body in no particular pattern.
Growing puppies have special needs. Until they are a year old, Basset puppies should not go up and down long flights of stairs or be allowed to
jump on and off elevated objects such as couches, bed or porches. The joints of this heavy-boned breed are still forming and excessive stress
or strain may cause permanent injury. After a year of age, these activities, within reason, are usually not harmful to your Basset.
Short legs may mean a needed boost! Many, but not all, sturdy, low-slung Basset Hounds may require assistance getting into a car. The
unique, low-stationed Basset does not excel at jumping.
Long ears and droopy eyes need cleaning. Nails need trimming. The long ears of a Basset do not allow good circulation of air and are prone
to infection. Owners should clean their dog's ears once a week. The Basset's droopy eyes should also be kept clean of debris and nails trimmed
once or twice monthly.
If your dog has bad breath, he may need his teeth cleaned.

           IS A BASSET HOUND THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY?

Before making the decision to purchase a Basset Hound, ask yourself the following questions.

1. If you have been accustomed to dogs with high energy levels, will you be happy with the calm, even temperament of the Basset Hound?

2. Bassets do not make good jogging companions and are not the best dog with which to have a game of catch.   Will the Basset fit your lifestyle
expectations?

3. Because of their long ears, low-slung structure and hefty size, Bassets have special needs, including needing their ears cleaned 3 or 4 times a
month.   Will you enjoy meeting these needs?

4. Because they possess a hunting instinct, Bassets tend to roam and should be kept in a secure, fenced area. Are you able to provide this type
environment for your Basset?

5. A single Basset may not do well when left alone for long periods. Will you have the time to give your Basset a great deal of attention and
affection?

6. The friendly, easy-going personality of the Basset makes him a poor guard dog. Is this acceptable to you?

If you have answered yes to the above questions then a Basset Hound may be the right dog for you.

Read "Getting Along With Your Basset"

SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A MALE OR A FEMALE BASSET HOUND?

Unlike more aggressive breeds like Rottweilers or German Shepherds, there is relatively little difference in temperament, activity or
trainability between a male and a female Basset Hound. Both make excellent companion pets. Females (bitches) which are not spayed go into
season (or heat) approximately every 6 months. Bitches also tend to weigh on average about 10 pounds less than males.

SPAYING AND NEUTERING

Spaying and neutering is a win/win situation for both you and your Basset. You will eliminate the mess of twice-yearly seasons in your bitch as
well as helping prevent unwanted pregnancies (read about Penelope and her pups), tumors and other female disorders. Neutered males also
become more settled and are not tempted by bitches in season. Spaying and neutering do not change the "personality" of your pet. Myths about
spaying and neutering.

MAKING YOUR HOME SAFE FOR YOUR BASSET PUPPY

Puppies are curious and will get into anything and everything! Safeguard your new puppy as you would a toddler.

1. Block off access to all stairs, balconies and decks from which a puppy could fall. Swimming pools should be fenced. For the first year, don't
let your Basset puppy climb stairs or jump off sofas, beds, etc. His joints are still forming and may become injured.

2. Keep anything toxic such as household cleaners, detergents, etc. away from your puppy. In a garage area,   clean up any gasoline spills and be
especially careful of antifreeze, which can kill. Dogs seem to love its smell and taste.

3. Keep phone cords, electrical cords and outlets away from your puppy and block access to spaces behind TV's, refrigerators, etc. Remove
sharp objects and things that could fall on your puppy.

4. Don't allow access to poisonous plants such as azaleas, poison ivy, mistletoe holly and philodendron, among others.
More potentially poisonous plants

5. Never leave small objects or children's toys, which a puppy could swallow, lying on the floor. A puppy will pick almost anything up in its mouth.
Even a coin which falls to the floor can be potentially harmful if your puppy swallows it.

6. Eliminate the possibility of your puppy getting its head caught in any type of tight spot which could lead to
strangulation. These could be things like railings, trellises or fences. Don't chain your puppy outside unattended.

7. Eliminate exposure to toxic fumes, lead-based paints and rat poisons.

8. Be sure all doors in your house close securely and that visitors are aware of the importance of closing doors.   Many a puppy has been killed by
a car when someone forgot to close a door securely.

PUPPY PROOF OUTDOOR AREAS

Do not leave your puppy outside unsupervised. To prevent your puppy from wandering, you will need to either build an outdoor kennel or provide
secure fencing that your puppy cannot jump over or dig under.

Provide your puppy a separate area of your yard to use as his bathroom area. Use fencing, or other means, to keep him out of areas where
children may play, especially sand boxes.

Some outdoor plants and trees can be toxic to dogs. Common ones include potato (all green parts), morning glory, foxglove, lily of the valley, and
oak (buds and acorns). Many bulb plants, such as daffodils, are also poisonous. Cocoa bean mulch can be toxic to dogs. Some dogs chew and swallow
landscaping stone, which can cause dangerous intestinal blockage.

Make sure all gasoline, oil, paint, lawn fertilizers, insecticides, and auto supplies are placed into secure containers, out of reach. Be especially
careful with antifreeze and rat poison, both of which taste good to dogs and both of which can be deadly if ingested.

Pools, ponds, and hot tubs should be covered or fenced off. Drainpipes can also pose problems.

Fire rings, barbecues, and other heat or fire sources pose the potential of causing burns.

Keep all food and other garbage in securely closed containers. Used coffee grounds can contain harmful amounts of caffeine, and decomposing
food may contain toxic molds. Keep compost in a secure bin.

Walk around your property and look for other areas or items that could be a hazard to your puppy, such as broken glass, exposed nails, or other
sharp objects. Plan how you will restrict your puppy's access to these areas.

THE BASSET HOUND SHOPPING LIST:

THINGS TO BUY FOR YOUR PUPPY

1. One crate to fit an adult Basset Hound, such as a Vari-Kennel Size 300, or any crate approaching the dimensions of 21"x24"x36". Use one
that can be divided so that they won't sleep at one end and potty at the other.

2. Bedding for the crate. This can be a blanket or a large soft towel.

3. A 2-quart stainless steel bowl for food.

4. A heavy ceramic bowl for water. 2 or 3 quart size.

5. A high quality puppy food.   I DO NOT RECOMMEND THE 'LARGE BREED' FORMULAS FOR BASSET PUPPIES.   I recommend and use
Purina Puppy Chow "Healthy Morsels Formula" also, the nutritional supplement, NuVet Plus (read information about it)

The puppies and their mother have been on NuVet Plus. The puppies in the womb have had the advantage of developing strong bones and a healthy
immune system. At birth, the puppies still receive NuVet through the mother’s milk until they are old enough to start eating and we add it to
their food. We STRONGLY recommend this supplement for ALL of our Basset Hound puppies. We have tried and tested it. We have had great
results in the growth of our puppies and adults as well as their health and development. Due to variations and quality of foods available, and that
there is not a vaccine available for EVERY canine illness, we recommend that your puppy be on NuVet supplement.

You will be instructed concerning this when you take possession of your puppy. You will receive a 3 day pack of NuVet Plus in your puppy package.
You will want to have this supplement on hand before you arrive to pick up your puppy so there is no break in the puppy’s feeding/supplement
routine.

The order line phone number is: 1-800-474-7044. Your order code is #4351. The order line hours are 8am-6pm Pacific time. You may either
order a month’s supply, a three month supply or a year supply. You’ll save money on the “auto-order program” which will also make sure you have a
supply on hand if you forget to order when you run out.

6. A 6 foot long web leash.

7. A small nylon adjustable buckle collar. Don't use a choke collar on a puppy. It can injure his throat. A choke training collar can be purchased
when your dog is older.

8. Nail clippers or nail grinder. Which ever kind you feel most comfortable with. See nail clipping information

9. Kwick-Stop Styptic Powder (Stops the bleeding if you cut your puppy's nails too short)

10. An ear cleaner. Many are available at pet stores or you can mix equal part vinegar and water.

11. Cotton balls or Q-tips for cleaning your puppy's ears every week. See "How To Clean Your Dog's Ears" video.

12. Puppy shampoo. Shampoo designed for puppies under 12 weeks of age.

13. A grooming glove for brushing your puppy.

14. Nutritious puppy treats or biscuits.

15. Toys which are safe for puppies.

16. Request your puppy be microchipped before you pick up or have your puppy shipped. Did you know that a family pet is lost every 2
seconds? That's millions every year! Shelters do their very best to locate owners, but if your pet has no form of identification,
there's not much they can do.

BRINGING YOUR PUPPY HOME

Following are a few tips to ensure that you give your new Basset puppy all the help it needs to adjust to its new home.

1. Don't have unrealistic expectations. Don't expect your puppy to "know" what to do once you get it home. Remember, your puppy will be
lonely the first few days and nights that it is separated from its littermates and familiar routine. Like children, puppies need to be taught what
is expected of them. Read article "Applying Problem Prevention." It has some ideas on stopping unwanted behaviors before they become a
problem.

2. Decide ahead of time who will be responsible for caring for your puppy. If you have children it is best to divide the duties among them.

3. Crate training should begin as soon as you bring your new puppy home. It is important to understand that crating a puppy is not cruel
since all dogs have a nesting instinct and the desire to find a protected spot of their own. The crate becomes your puppy's special "room" where
he can feel protected and sleep or relax. Crating will help your puppy adjust to its new home, keep it safe when you are away for short periods
and help in the housebreaking process, since dogs, by nature, do not like to eliminate in their dens. Teach your puppy to sleep in its crate the
first night you bring him home. As hard as it may be, don't give in to his crying or barking. It may take him a couple of days to stop missing his
littermates. Feeding your puppy in his crate and crating him in the car will also help him adjust to his new quarters. By outfitting a crate with
clean, soft, comfortable bedding and some special toys, all puppies soon learn to appreciate their special "room."

4. Set up a "dog area." Young puppies and even older dogs need their own space where they can get away from children and the hub-bub of a
busy family. In addition to crate training your puppy, you may also designate an area such as a laundry room or other room preferably being a
tiled floor which can be sectioned off with a baby gate. Puppies that are 2 to 4 months old need plenty of sleep. Your puppy may play for 30
minutes and then need to sleep for an hour or two. Don't stress a new puppy if it shows signs of needing to rest. Put him in his crate or dog area
so he can sleep undisturbed.

5. Choose a veterinarian. Read this helpful article on choosing a veterinarian. Learn about canine diseases, internal and external parasites.

             HOUSEBREAKING: A CONSISTENT SCHEDULE IS THE KEY

- The minute you arrive home with your puppy take him outside to a spot so he can eliminate (use the same spot each time). Do this before
bringing him in the house.

- Literally keep an eye on your puppy at all time indoors and outdoors when you first bring him home. You may have to do this for a couple of
weeks or months until he is housebroken.

- When you are not able to watch him, confine him to his crate.

- Until your puppy is housebroken, confine him to his crate at night. Do not give in to crying and whining! He will soon learn to accept being
crated. At night, take him out one last time as late as you can and wake up as early as possible to let him out in the morning. Until he is
housebroken, be sure his crate is not too big or he may be tempted to eliminate in a corner of the crate. Don't provide water after 6 p.m.

- Take a 2 or 3 month old puppy outside to eliminate every 3 to 4 hours. The more consistently you follow this schedule the better.

- Key times to take him out are first thing in the morning, after waking up from a nap, 15 to 20 minutes after eating and after playtime. Do not
play with your puppy before he has eliminated.

- Watch for your puppy's signals that he needs to eliminate; the most common are sniffing, circling or going to the door. Take him out the same
door each time and to the same elimination space outdoors.

- Allow plenty of time for elimination. Use a key phrase to signal elimination such as "Do your business!" Some puppies need 20 minutes or more.
Walking your puppy on a lead can help stimulate a bowel movement.

- When your puppy eliminates reward him immediately with a treat, affection or playtime.

- Maintain a regular feeding schedule and do not leave food down for more than 20 minutes.

- Only reprimand your puppy if you catch him in the act of soiling the house. Thoroughly clean and disinfect the soiled area to remove any odor.

HOUSEBREAKING WHEN OWNERS WORK Eight to 12 week old puppies do not have the colon or bladder control to go more than 3 to 4
hours without eliminating. Following are suggestions for working owners:

1. Install a doggy door which goes out to a secure fenced area or arrange for someone to let your puppy out every 4 hours.

2. If the above arrangement is not possible, set up an elimination area in a confined are or room in your home.   Thick pads of newspaper may be
used for this purpose.

3. At the age of 8 or 9 months a puppy has more bladder and bowel control and at this time the indoor elimination area can be progressively
made smaller until it is eliminated altogether.

4. When you are using the inside elimination area as part of training, remove this area when you are at home and can supervise the puppy.
Everything must be done to encourage elimination outside.

5. As your puppy progresses, teach him to eliminate while on a leash and on different types of surfaces. This will help avoid problems if you and
your dog are in unfamiliar surroundings or another house.

     SOME BASSET HOUND FEEDING TIPS

- Don't feed your puppy table scraps. This turns a dog into a finicky eater and can lead to obesity. Changes in food also can cause diarrhea.

- Don't feed your puppy chicken, pork or fish bones. These can lodge in the throat and puncture the stomach and intestines.

- Stick to a feeding schedule and feed in the same place. Feeding at the same time helps the housebreaking process. Offer food for 20
minutes. Feed several small meals and don't offer water immediately after feeding to avoid risk of bloat.

- Feed to ideal body condition. Read article on "Body Condition."
Evaluating A Puppy's Body Condition

Thin Puppy: Ribs may be visible with no palpable fat. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck.

Fat Puppy: Ribs palpable with heavy fat cover. Fat deposits over vertebrae and base of tail. Waist absent or barely visible. Abdominal
tuck may be absent.

Ideal Puppy: Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Abdomen tucked up.

Read article "Feed Your Dog to Ideal Body Condition For A Longer Life."

- If you travel with your puppy bring water from home. Changes in water may lead to diarrhea.

- Bassets are prone to obesity. Don't over feed your Basset! Some Bassets seem to "live on air" and require very little food to maintain a
proper weight. When you look down on your Basset you should not see his stomach protruding from his sides. You should also be able to feel your
Bassets ribs under his skin.

- Don't be concerned if your puppy is "off" his feed during the first couple of days in his new home. Separation from his littermates, combined
with adjusting to a new environment can sometimes affect your puppy's appetite for the first couple of days. Call your breeder if the problem
persists.

- If you change your puppy's food, do it gradually. Sudden changes in feed can cause diarrhea. If you change from the Purina Puppy Chow, choose a
good high quality puppy chow for the first year. Some brands add fillers to the food that just adds bulk to the food and no true nutritional
value. The dog has to consume more to get the nutrition it needs.

-Supplements. We use NuVet Plus Wafers- it helps our breeding females keep their weight on, and keeps them from losing their coats after
whelping. It also boosts immunities and helps prevent allergies. We give a 3 day supply to all our puppy buyers and we strongly recommend it for
overall health of the puppy or dog. Order yours today to insure that the puppy will continue to get the quality nutrition that he/she has been
getting.

More information can be obtained from the Basset Hound Club of America.