Basset Hound Bliss or Blues? Pros & Cons of Owning this Breed!

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Thinking about welcoming a Basset Hound into your family? 🥰

With those droopy eyes and super-long ears, it’s easy to fall head over heels for these pups…

But, like any breed, there’s more to them than just adorable looks! 😉

Basset Hounds are unique dogs, packed with personality (and wrinkles!), and it’s important to know both the good and the, well, slightly challenging aspects before you bring one home.

So, let’s dive into the major pros and cons of Basset Hound ownership with a review of the excellent “The pros and cons of owning a Basset Hound” video from the Dog World YouTube channel. The video can be found at the bottom of this article.

Ready to learn more? Let’s get started! 🚀

Not Cut Out to be a Guard Dog 🚨

First things first, if you’re dreaming of a canine security system… a Basset Hound might not be your best bet. 😅

These sweethearts were originally bred for hunting, not home protection.

Their nature is gentle and friendly… which is amazing for family life, but not exactly intimidating for unwanted guests.

They’re more likely to greet a stranger with a wagging tail and a bark of welcome than a fearsome growl.

Plus, Basset Hounds aren’t exactly known for their boundless energy…

Alert and active guarding?

Not really their style. 😴

Sure, they have that distinctive “baying” howl…

It can definitely announce someone’s arrival, but it’s more of a neighborhood serenade than a burglar alarm! 🎶

And physically, those short legs and slow gait…

Agility and speed aren’t their superpowers.

While they are incredibly loyal and loving pets, guarding just isn’t in their Basset DNA.

They’re built for cuddles and scent trails, not chasing intruders.

So, if home security is top of mind, you might want to consider a different breed for that role…

Just sayin’! 😉

Family Dog Dream Boat! 💖

Now, let’s switch gears to something Basset Hounds excel at: being amazing family dogs! 🎉

What makes them so pawesome in this department?

Well, for starters, they have personalities as chill as a cucumber! 🥒

Seriously, Bassets are known for their patience and easy-going nature.

Even if little kids are a bit… enthusiastic… in their petting, Bassets are unlikely to get snappy.

Think of them as big, floppy, furry teddy bears… perfect for families with youngsters! 🧸

And get this… they absolutely LOVE being around their humans! 🥰

Affection is their middle name!

They’ll happily follow you from room to room, showering you with tail wags and drooly kisses.

Who wouldn’t want that kind of devoted companionship?

Plus, while they enjoy a good sniff and explore outdoors, they are equally thrilled to snuggle up on the couch for a movie marathon. 🍿

Training?

They’re eager to please (especially if treats are involved! 😉) and respond well to positive vibes.

Training sessions can be a fun family bonding experience! And health-wise, with good care, these guys can be your furry family members for 12 years or more!

That’s a whole lot of love and laughter.

If you’re searching for a low-key, loyal, and super-affectionate dog for your crew, a Basset Hound could be your paw-fect match! 🐾

Drool-apalooza! 🤤

Okay, let’s address the, shall we say, moist topic of Basset Hound drool. 😅

Yes, it’s a thing. A big, slobbery thing.

Ever wonder why Basset Hounds are drool champions?

Let’s get the inside scoop!

First off, those famous jowls…

Have you seen them?

They’re like built-in drool collectors!

Those loose, flappy jowls are basically saliva sponges… and gravity does its thing. 💧

But it’s not just the jowls.

Basset Hounds are majorly motivated by food. 🍖

Seriously, mention “treat” and watch their ears perk up and the drool flow!

When they catch a whiff of something yummy, their drool factory kicks into overdrive.

It’s like their internal monologue is, “Food? Must. Drool. Now!” 🤤

And those long, glorious ears?

They contribute too!

Those ears can trap moisture and saliva…

So, when they do that adorable head shake (and they shake a lot!), drool goes flying! 💨

So, if you’re thinking Basset Hound, just brace yourself for the drool.

Keep towels handy! 😉 But honestly, those big, soulful eyes and that sweet, loving personality…

Totally worth a little (or a lot!) of drool, right?

Surprisingly Low-Maintenance Pups! 😌

Believe it or not, Basset Hounds are actually pretty low-maintenance dogs in many ways!

These laid-back pups are adaptable and easy-going, which is great for busy folks or those with limited time.

They don’t need tons of exercise.

A daily walk and a weekly brush are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.

Grooming is a breeze! 🧽

And generally, they’re healthy dogs who don’t require a ton of extra fuss.

Basset Hounds are content to chill around the house or enjoy a relaxed stroll.

They don’t demand constant attention or entertainment, as long as their basic needs are met (food, water, love, maybe a comfy couch spot 😉).

So, if you’re after a pet who will shower you with affection but won’t demand you run a marathon every day, a Basset Hound is worth considering.

Yes, they might drool a bit and have a stubborn streak… but their easy-going nature and loving hearts make them a true joy to be around. 🥰

Obesity-Prone Doggos! ⚠️

Now for a slightly heavier topic…

Basset Hounds and their tendency to gain weight. 😬

Despite those short legs, they’re actually medium-sized dogs… and those legs are surprisingly dense!

“Basset” itself means “low-slung” in French, and they are built stocky with solid muscles.

They also mature a bit slower than some breeds.

Their relaxed lifestyle, combined with a love of food and not always being super motivated to exercise…

Well, it can be a recipe for obesity, which is a serious health concern for dogs. 😔

Did you know that a survey in 2018 showed that over half the dogs in the USA were overweight or obese? 😲

Even a few extra pounds can shorten a dog’s lifespan!

And for Basset Hounds, extra weight puts strain on their long backs and joints.

Obesity also increases the risk of diabetes and heart problems.

As a Basset owner, diet and exercise are key from puppyhood onwards.

Those puppy-dog eyes begging for treats? Resist! 💪

It’s for their own good!

Chatting with your vet can help you create the perfect plan for your Basset.

Healthy food and regular activity are crucial for a long and happy life for your Basset buddy!

Let’s keep them trim and terrific! ✨

Undeniably Adorable! 😍

Let’s be honest… Basset Hounds are just plain adorable! 🥰

If you’re looking for a dog that’s easy to love and easy on the eyes, look no further.

They’re not just affectionate and loyal…

They have that wonderfully chill temperament that makes them great with other pets too!

And those looks?

Stubby legs, long body, wrinkly skin, and those ears!

Basset Hounds are truly one-of-a-kind in the cuteness department. 💖

That “sad” face?

It just adds to their charm!

No wonder they’re so popular on greeting cards and everywhere!

But don’t let the droopy look fool you… Basset Hounds can be surprisingly playful, especially when they have doggy pals around.

They are pack animals at heart and love company.

Game of fetch? Walk in the park with furry friends?

They’re in!

Basically, Basset Hounds are the whole package: adorable looks, a loving heart, and a playful spirit.

It’s no surprise they are such a beloved breed! ❤️

Digging Dynamos! 🐾

Ever wonder why your Basset Hound is obsessed with digging holes? 🤔

It’s like they’re practicing for a starring role in “Digging Dogs of the World”! 😂

But don’t worry, this digging drive is totally natural for them.

It’s in their genes, inherited from their wild ancestors who dug dens.

Your Basset is probably just trying to create a cozy den of their own, maybe under your coffee table or sofa!

Plus, remember they were bred to track scents…

If they catch a whiff of something interesting underground, like a critter burrow, they just have to investigate! 🕵️‍♀️

While it’s usually not a big deal (unless your entire yard becomes a construction zone! 😉), you can redirect their digging desires.

If they’re digging to cool off in summer, maybe set up a kiddie pool or a shady spot.

Or… Embrace the digging!

Maybe you’ll unearth some buried treasure together! 💰 Who knows!

Surprisingly Versatile Companions! 🤸‍♀️

Basset Hounds are like the Swiss Army knives of the dog world – versatile and ready for almost anything!

They might be compact enough for apartment living, but they have the spirit of a big dog.

They’re happy with moderate exercise, but equally happy to be couch potatoes with you.

And their loyalty and love?

Unmatched!

They fit right in with families, kids, and other pets.

If you need a four-legged friend who can roll with the punches of life, a Basset Hound is a fantastic choice.

They’re up for adventures, from a gentle park walk to a day-long outing.

With their adaptable nature, they’ll be happy wherever life takes you.

Why settle for a one-trick pony when you can have a versatile Basset Hound by your side, ready for anything? 🌟

Not Speedy Gonzales, But Steady Joggers! 🐌

Okay, Basset Hounds might not win any races…

They do look a bit like they got the wrong legs in the doggy leg lottery! 😂

And sure, they’re not built for speed.

But don’t underestimate those little legs!

They can actually run for miles!

They might not have the sleek physique of a Greyhound, but with a bit of training, your Basset Hound can become your hiking buddy!

Just don’t expect to break any speed records together. 😉

These determined dogs can trot along for 3 to 7 miles at a pace that’s a bit faster than human walking speed.

Pretty impressive for those short legs, right?

So, go ahead and take your Basset Hound for a jog…

Just maybe skip placing any bets on winning any races! 😅

It’s about enjoying the journey together, not just the finish line! 🚶‍♀️🐕

Scent-Tracking Superstars! 👃

Find out more: https://www.youtube.com/@DogWorldHQ

Finally, let’s talk about what Basset Hounds were born to do: track scents! 🐾

These pups are scent-following pros!

Those big ears, short legs, and loose jowls might look comical, but they are essential tools for their incredible tracking skills.

With over 220 million scent receptors (that’s way more than us humans!) and a sense of smell 40 times stronger than ours, they’re basically walking, breathing scent detectors! 🐕‍🦺

Their wide muzzle and long ears?

Perfect for scooping up odors.

Those wrinkles?

They trap scent particles!

And even their bark plays a role…

It helps to spray moisture and trap even more scent!

Plus, their low height keeps their noses closer to the ground for longer, without tiring them out.

All these unique traits give them that classic Basset look we all adore.

But those short legs, loose skin, big ears, and floppy jowls…

They all combine to make the Basset Hound one of the most perfectly designed hunting and tracking dogs on the planet! 🌎

Amazing, right?! ✨

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