Basset Hound: Health Information

BY | September 19 | COMMENTS PUBLISHED BY
Basset Hound: Health Information

Basset Hounds are great fun-loving pets that are known to stay in good health and live a long life. Learn more about this great scent hound and companion here.

Basset Hounds are scent hounds, originally bred to sniff out hare and other prey for their hunting masters. Their scent tracking abilities are almost unparalleled by any other breed. Basset Hounds are known to be a generally healthy, long-living breed. They don’t suffer from many of the joint issues that many mid or large sized dogs do. Their primary concerns are with skin.

Primary Health Conditions of the Basset Hound

Basset Hounds tend to develop yeast infections in and around the ears and lip folds. Baths with gentle medicated shampoos recommended by a veterinarian can help prevent or soothe these skin concerns. Keeping those long droopy ears clean and dry can help prevent yeast issues as well.

Secondary Health Conditions of the Basset Hound

There are some genetically inherited conditions that can be avoided by working with a reputable breeder. Breeders can have their sires and dames analyzed for all genetic conditions prior to breeding, and should be able to provide documentation that their lines are disinclined to any genetic maladies. Common problems may include canine Thrombopathia, which means that when a Basset Hound is wounded, the blood may have a hard time clotting, and excessive bleeding may take place; or elbow dysplasia, which can cause lameness in the front legs, but that can usually be treated. Adopting a mutt whose dominant breed is Basset Hound is a great way to avoid some of the purebred genetic concerns.

Basset Hound Exercise and Walking Needs

As compared with other breeds, Basset Hounds are fairly low maintenance when it comes to exercise. Two to three moderately paced walks a day should do the trick to keep your hound fit and satisfied. They’re a notoriously snuggly and lazy breed, and love to curl up for long naps. They are playful, and enjoy the company of other dogs and humans, but don’t require frequent runs or complicated routines. Because Basset Hounds don’t typically express frustration from lack of exercise the way other dogs might (inappropriate chewing, roughhousing), owners may get lax in their exercise routines. Early on, establish exercise as a part of your hound’s life.

Basset Hound Nutritional Needs

Basset Hounds are notoriously eager eaters, and often stray from the kitchen in their quest for edibles - or inedibles. They’ll gobble down even the most bland meal, but don’t be fooled. Filling their bowls with high protein, low processed foods will help your hound stay healthy for longer.

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This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional advice due to what you may have read on our website.

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High Protein Elbow Dysplasia Basset Hound