The Top Six Myths about Basset Hounds

Bassets hounds are very stubborn. If you want a dog that is going to sit, stay and come on command, you do not want a basset hound. They go with their noses. Bassets will also train you to do what they want.

Here is a misconception that many people have: Bassets stink!

Bassets are actually not stinky.  However, some have oily skin due to the food they are fed, and because they are not bathed regularly.  Think about your own hair. It gets stinky if not shampooed regularly.

Basset Hounds’ ears can become smelly due to a yeast infection, to which they are prone. That can be averted by regular, weekly gentle cleanings of the ears with a baby wipe. Do not use alcohol, as that can burn and be harmful. Even a soft, dry cloth can help. But no digging deep into the ear, please!

Another thing to consider:  Basset Hound puppies are cute and adorable, but as they grow through the “terrible twos,” oh my goodness!  Tough love is needed and much hugs, kisses, discipline and repetitive training.  They will tear up things, jump around a lot and just be annoying.  Then theyy turn two and it all quiets down. Then they will become the dream dog you’ve desired. Or, better yet, adopt a Basset 3 years or older. You will not have to deal with the destructive puppy phase!

The Top Six Myths about Basset Hounds:

1. Basset hounds are less intelligent than other dogs.
Bassets are very intelligent, but they also possess an independent nature and low desire to please their people. This blend of characteristics can make them frustrating to live with, but it also means that they’re a fascinating challenge to a dog trainer. Train your basset with lots of positive motivation-they respond especially well to food rewards-and you’ll see how smart they really are!

2. Basset hounds are medium-sized dogs
Technically, but a sturdy male basset weighing upwards of seventy pounds might make you doubt that technicality. Bassets are strong, solid dogs who can really pull on their leashes; don’t underestimate them.

3. Basset hounds are short-haired dogs that don’t shed.
Bassets shed a LOT despite their short coats. Regular brushings (especially with a currycomb or hound’s glove) help quite a bit, but be prepared to get to know your vacuum cleaner if you add a Basset to your family. Luckily, Bassets seem much less terrified of vacuum cleaners than do most other breeds.

4. Basset hounds are good companions to take on off-lead romps through the woods.
Bassets love to be taken on walks, but they always should be kept on a lead. When not leashed, a Basset might decide to follow his nose and leave you without a thought, only realizing what he’s done when he’s miles away and unable to return home. Don’t take chances with the safety of your Basset; either keep him on a leash or let him play within the confines of a fenced-in yard.

5. Basset Hounds bond better with other dogs than they do with human beings.
Bassets were bred to exist companionably with other dogs in packs, and they DO tend to get along well with each other. But they also love people; very few breeds are as affectionate toward human beings as the Basset Hound. Most bassets bond very strongly with their people, showing none of the aloofness of some of the other hounds.

6. Basset Hounds are couch potatoes who laze around all day barely breathing.
Perhaps some Bassets are loafers, but I’ve never met them. Nearly all Bassets are active, busy dogs who get into trouble regularly. Many chew and are destructive. Others regularly overturn garbage pails and shred paper. And, of course, any food within Basset reach (and they’re a long dog who can reach quite far up on a kitchen counter when motivated to do so) is fair game. Be prepared for anything with a Basset!

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