How to Care for the Needs of a Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are adorable dogs, with droopy, sorrowful eyes and long floppy ears. But look beneath the surface and you will find a gentle dog that will get along well with you and your children and provide you with years of loyal companionship. What is the best way to care for the needs of a Basset Hound?

Provide Plenty of Moderate Exercise

Basset hounds require plenty of moderate exercise each day to keep them in tip-top condition. As this breed of dog has an unusual long barrel-shaped body with short legs, it is important to make sure that your dog does not gain any excess weight, as this will place extra strain on the dog's legs and spine. This in turn will make it difficult for the dog to walk.

From personal experience as a pet sitter, I have found that Basset Hounds are enthusiastic walkers if you set a good example and take them out for regular walks each day.

Offer Two or Three Small Meals Each Day

Along with a regular walking schedule, Basset Hounds should be kept trim by avoiding the tendency of overfeeding your furry friend. Get into the habit of feeding your dog two or three small meals throughout the day, rather than offering one large meal. Small, regular meals can help regulate your Basset hound's weight.

Provide Adequate Ear Care

Basset Hounds sometimes look out of place with their long floppy ears that fall to the ground. Not only can their long ears become a hindrance as they drag in the dirt when they walk along, but they are also susceptible to infection. That is why it is important to keep a Basset hound's ears clean by regularly wiping them after a walk or when they have had a bath and keeping an eye out for visible signs of infection.

Basset Hounds are a delightful breed of dog that will suit young families with children, to elderly ones who are looking for a gentle, quiet companion. But in order to make the most of your Basset Hound, preventative treatment and lifestyle factors should be put into place. Taking proper care of your Basset Hound will help ensure your furry friend leads a happy, healthy life for many years to come.