The Complete Guide to Basset Hounds

Find out the answers to your most pressing questions about Basset Hounds, such as:
Is a Basset Hound the right breed for my lifestyle?What should I expect from a Basset breeder or rescue group?How do I prepare my home for a curious, nose-driven pup?
Which training methods are most effective for training Basset Hounds?


The Basset Hound has an unmistakable profile. They have the long, square snout, muscular body, and loose skin of their Bloodhound ancestors, but with short legs and a long, sabre-shaped tail. The olfactory ability of this breed is second only to the Bloodhound itself, and they are unrelenting once they have caught a scent. Both the short legs and the long, upwardly curved tail-which is tipped in white-are designed to make these stout hounds easier for hunters to follow on foot. Although they are enthusiastic hunters in the field, they tend to be calmer and more relaxed at home, sometimes to the point of laziness.


Bassets are particularly agreeable animals, both with people and with other dogs, and they make excellent family companions as well as exemplary hunting hounds. They are typically gentle with young children, have a very pleasant disposition, and are comfortable in the role of everyone's best friend and confidant. Basset Hounds aren't right for everyone, however, as they can be stubborn, tend to be highly skilled counter-surfers, and frequently howl when left alone for long periods.


The Complete Guide to Basset Hounds is a treasure-trove of information about this distinctive breed of hound dog. Everything you need to help ensure that your friendly Basset Hound pup develops into a well-behaved, healthy, and confident canine companion can be found within these pages. From your first search for a breeder to your precious pooch's senior years, the indispensable knowledge compiled within will have you reaching for this extensive guidebook over and over again. This comprehensive book covers nearly every aspect of raising a Basset Hound, including:


The history of the Basset HoundThe challenges of living with a scenthoundWhere to find a good Basset Hound breeder or rescueChoosing the right Basset Hound for youPreparing your home for a new dog-inside and outWhat to expect the first few days homeThe importance of rules and boundaries in the Basset's lifeBest practices for grooming your Basset HoundDiet and nutrition for the Basset HoundDealing with separation anxiety and other problem behaviorsExercising and training your stubborn Basset HoundBreed-specific health and wellness information for all stagesHow to resist the Basset Hound's legendary "sad eyes"Caring for the aging Basset Hound


Basset Hounds are one of the most amicable of dog breeds, but not always the most cooperative. They are both exceptional tracking dogs, steadfast in their ability to follow a trail, and excellent family companions, calm, affectionate, and not overly boisterous. They are stubborn, slobbery, and worth every second. This exhaustive manual will give you all the tools you need to ensure your Basset Hound's health and happiness, from their first day with you until their last.


This comprehensive guidebook is a must-have addition for anyone considering bringing a Basset Hound into their lives.