Basset Hounds: Hunting Dogs And Dog Obedience Training

Behold the Basset Hound: a medium-size breed of dog well known for its hunting capabilities. Basset Hounds are easy to distinguish with their long, droopy ears, which evolved to dust up the dirt on the ground and bring the scent of the game to the nose of the dog. While not fast runners because of their short legs, Basset Hounds have remarkable stamina and this allows them to be successful hunters as well as entertaining additions to any family.

Basset Hounds are believed to be descendants of St. Hubert's hounds. Around the sixth century in France, St. Hubert, the patron saint of the hunt, tried to develop a new strain of hound, and many believe that the Basset Hound is a mutation of that strain. Its short legs allow hunters to follow on foot and its abilities to drive small game like rabbits out of hiding and into open land have made them invaluable on the hunt. Pack hunting with Basset Hounds is still a well-practiced sport in France and England today. But how do these abilities translate to a Basset Hound's success as a family pet?

Basset owners will admit to being "owned by a Basset." Basset Hounds have several characteristics that make them wonderful pets; they are tolerant of everyone in the house, including other pets. Basset Hounds possess genuine traits of loyalty and affection. Not an aggressive breed, they do not make good watchdogs, but they are good around children and love to snuggle. Children may be tempted to ride on the back of a Basset Hound because of its short legs, however, parents should never allow this to happen. This dog is too long and large for its back to support the additional weight. Males typically weigh 55-75 lbs, averaging a height of 12-15 inches, and females are typically ten pounds lighter and an inch shorter. While they can be lazy, Basset Hounds are designed to walk miles, so obesity can be an issue if they don't get daily exercise. Remember their origins in a pack; Basset Hounds also require company to be content.

Basset Hounds have gained popularity for being quirky and entertaining, quickly working their way into the hearts of anyone they encounter. However, Basset Hounds can also be very stubborn, so a good obedience program is strongly suggested. This stubborn streak has earned them the reputation of being of lower intelligence, which is false. These dogs simply require higher intelligence of the owner who is trying to train them. Several websites recommend seeking a trainer that specializes in positive food reinforcement, as Basset Hounds respond well to food. Housetraining can be a trial as well, and can take a few months. Patience and consistency are vital to its success. To learn tips and techniques, visit Canismajor.com or surf the Basset Hound Club of America's website for their approach.

The Basset Hound Club of America is an excellent resource for those interesting in owning a Basset Hound. Their website, basset-bhca.org, provides information about finding breeders, what to look for in a breeder, and also touches on adopting from shelters. The site cautions to never buy a Basset Hound from a pet store, and to carefully consider whether this dog will be the right fit at home.

Basset Hounds are wonderful personalities and pet.  With careful research and planning, Basset Hounds can make an excellent addition to a loving family.


Sources:
What is a Basset Hound? Basset.net. 1 Aug. 2007. http://www.basset.net/what.html

Origins of the Basset Hound. Basset Hound Club of America. 1 Aug. 2007. http://www.basset-bhca.org/Finding/Discover1.htm
Index. Basset Hound Club of America. 1 Aug. 2007. http://www.basset-bhca.org/index.html

The Basset as a Pet. Buck Basset. 18 March 2007.1 Aug. 2007. http://www.buckbasset.com/Goodpet.htm

A Guide to Happy Housetraining. Dog Owner's Guide.1 Aug. 2007. http://www.canismajor.com/dog/hsetrain.html