A Basset isn't for everyone. They are stubborn; independent; very intelligent; some drool alot; they shed, and shed, and shed; they are bred to hunt rabbits and are scent hounds and their nose often gets them into trouble; they are pack animals and "you" become their pack; they have long backs and you need to be careful because of that on stairs and jumping off furniture, etc.; you have to watch their weight, they are chow hounds and are food motivated; they are prone to ear infections, and you have to keep their ears clean; if you want a dog that is instantly obedient a Basset isn't for you; they are also hard to housetrain; have a deep resounding bark and melodious Aroooooo; and they are not a watch dog.
You stated you wanted a small dog. A Basset is not a small dog and is considered a "big" dog even though they have very short legs and are low to the ground. Many are 40 to 60 pound dogs at maturity and they are a powerful dog. As pups they are very active, need lots of exercise, their nose often gets them into trouble, and will eat anything, and as they mature (about two years of age) they do mellow out and become the couch potato that may people believe they are. Many end up in Shelters or Rescue because people can't handle these traits.
If you can handle all that, then you will be rewarded with a wonderful, loving companion, who will keep you laughing with their antics and clownish expressions. They are wonderful family dogs, love people, and children, and generally get along well with other pets and animals. We fell in love with the breed seven years ago when we aquired our first Basset.
One good book to read is "A New Owners Guide to Basset Hounds" that you can fine at PetCo, on the internet, etc. It has good overall info. Also look up the breed on the AKC site for the breed standard and info.
Do a lot of reading on this forum and ask lots of questions to make sure a Basset is for your family.
Good luck on the search for a companion for your family.
Arooooos from Bogie Carter!!
You stated you wanted a small dog. A Basset is not a small dog and is considered a "big" dog even though they have very short legs and are low to the ground. Many are 40 to 60 pound dogs at maturity and they are a powerful dog. As pups they are very active, need lots of exercise, their nose often gets them into trouble, and will eat anything, and as they mature (about two years of age) they do mellow out and become the couch potato that may people believe they are. Many end up in Shelters or Rescue because people can't handle these traits.
If you can handle all that, then you will be rewarded with a wonderful, loving companion, who will keep you laughing with their antics and clownish expressions. They are wonderful family dogs, love people, and children, and generally get along well with other pets and animals. We fell in love with the breed seven years ago when we aquired our first Basset.
One good book to read is "A New Owners Guide to Basset Hounds" that you can fine at PetCo, on the internet, etc. It has good overall info. Also look up the breed on the AKC site for the breed standard and info.
Do a lot of reading on this forum and ask lots of questions to make sure a Basset is for your family.
Good luck on the search for a companion for your family.
Arooooos from Bogie Carter!!
