Advice for owning a Basset Hound.

Robcatt24

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Sep 17, 2005
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Wife has been wanting one for years.

I'm finally about to cave in.

Had dogs all my life, but never a Basset.

One guy told me it's best to have 2, as they do better with other dogs around.

I'm kinda concerned about health problems with this breed.
 
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Lexie's Dad

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Jan 12, 2003
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Bassett Hounds are great. They're lazy once they mature. Roofus passed away last year - grew up with other dogs and always had others around. Be careful of their backs and keep the ears clean.
 

Wall2Boogie

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They are very friendly dogs. Just don’t feed them a ton of McDonalds and you will be ok. They aren’t an aggressive dog, and they really like being close to you. Definitely a perfect dog for kids. They can get lazy and fat like a pug, just don’t let them over eat
 

BlueRaider22

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Sep 24, 2003
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Great breed. My Uncle had one named Tank. You have to watch there ears, nose, and eyes for infections. And keep their weight down to prevent wear/tear on the back. They are prone to wander once they get a scent, but they don’t tend to move very quickly.

But generally very friendly, lazy, big ole lap buddies.
 

Rebelfreedomeagle

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Feb 24, 2017
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My only advice is to wait for the Columbus day sale.
 

theoledog

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Bassett Hounds are great. They're lazy once they mature. Roofus passed away last year - grew up with other dogs and always had others around. Be careful of their backs and keep the ears clean.
Had one... and I agree with Lexie's Dad 100%...
They can have issues because of their back... Bread well maybe less risk...
Not exactly a lively breed.... but nice pets.
 

Ineverplayedthegame

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Aug 12, 2005
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Strong, strong hound smell. Susceptible to fatty tumors, back problems, and ear infections. Very stubborn. Will follow their nose for a long way. Sweet, sweet personality. Love children and are very protective of the females of the house.
 
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MegaBlue05

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I have beagles. Bassets are similar. They’re better in pairs or packs than as solo dogs. Nose controls the brain. Hound smell. Sheds. Great dispositions. Good with kids and most dogs.
 
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Kidd-Liggit

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Aug 12, 2009
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Ear infections can be a real problem, seriously recommend you get ear cleaner and just clean once or twice a week. Will save a lot of trouble in the long run.
 

Pickle_Rick

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Nephew had one for years. As everyone says. His liked to pretend to be a poodle, and would climb in your lap. That can get awkward with a 70 lb. dog.
 

cole854

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If you have stairs, limit the climbing as much as possible...takes a toll on their backs over time.
 
Mar 19, 2006
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I have had 3 bassets. Each had a completely different personality. They have been bred to be selfish\stubborn and can be difficult to house break. They are highly intelligent no matter how stupid you think they look. One thing not mentioned here is that they shed...A LOT. Ditto on the skin ulcers, ear infections, and obesity. You are also going to want to get on their barking as soon as you can. They bark so loud it can ultimately cause hearing issues.

They are great with kids and other animals (Cats included). They are very loyal, affectionate, and sometimes clingy. They are full of personality and will provide ENDLESS entertainment.

We had to put our 15 year old basset down last year. His name was Mashburn. It was one of the worst days of my life.

If you have the patience, you will never own another breed. It would be akin to cheating.

Something about Bassets, man.