How Do You Care For A Basset Hound?
The bassett hound is a low-to-medium maintenance dog. Keep in mind that hounds slobber much more than other breeds. The No. 1 reason people give up their bassets is because they drool too much. (The No. 2 reason is that the dog got bigger than expected.) Keep your basset’s weight down. Overweight dogs will have more health problems, including heart trouble and arthritis. Learn what health problems are associated with this breed: Von Willebrand’s disease (a blood disorder), glaucoma, torsion (stomach bloat, a very serious emergency), smelly ears, paneosteitis (also called transient lameness), and allergies to pollens and grasses. Brush your basset once a week and shedding will be minimal. Use a hound glove to keep his coat shiny. Wipe out his ears at that time to prevent odors and infections. Bathe the dog infrequently; he doesn’t require special grooming and can be washed at home. Remember that bassets tend to be somewhat stubborn, which means that you must be consistent and patient wh