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Basset Hound |
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Description... |
 This
good-natured and peaceful dog is short-legged and relatively heavy
for its size. It usually stands just under a foot and a half tall,
with a hard coat and loose skin. The Basset Hound is usually some
combination of black, white, and/or tan and has long, trademark
ears that hang down.
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History...
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The word Basset comes from the French "bas,"
meaning "low to the ground." This breed is, in fact, descended
from the Bloodhound and old St. Hubert hound. It was admired by
William Shakespeare and King Edward VII. Originally bred to hunt
game, it still makes the perfect hunting dog for the novice
hunter, with its short legs and slower paced run.
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Traits...
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The Basset Hound was originally bred as a trailing
dog, and it will bay loudly when it is on the trail of a rabbit or
other, smaller game. Be careful, however, as your Basset may
simply wander away because of this instinct to trail. Try a long,
leashed walk through wooded areas or open fields for a fun time
for you and your pooch. Or, for the novice hunter, this dog makes
an erstwhile companion.
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Good aspects...
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 The
Basset Hound is among the mildest mannered of all breeds. They
tend to be peaceful and reliable, good with children and
strangers, and able to bond well with an entire family. They make
excellent watchdogs, and do fine in the city or large apartment if
they are given enough exercise. In addition, this breed gets along
well with other animals, and does well with patient obedience
training.
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Health...
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The Basset Hound is an extremely healthy breed, and
most health problems that do occur are the result of obesity
caused by lack of exercise. A healthy Basset, in other words, is
one that is exercised regularly. Some possible genetic health
concerns include the following: glaucoma, Von Willebrand's
Disease, bloat, Paneosteitis, allergies, and otitis externa.
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Be aware...
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Basset Hounds can be difficult to housebreak, and
they tend to bay a lot in their sleep. These dogs are also known
to howl when left alone for long periods of time. They may wander
away from home if not kept leashed or locked-up. In addition, they
also tend to drool more than most other breeds. They can be a bit
stubborn, and will often clown around when being disobedient.
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Summary...
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This is a friendly breed, but a born trailer and
hunter, so be ready to do some tracking!
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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Further resources... |
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