Basset hounds are best known for their sweet and gentle disposition, making them very good human companions. However their stubborn nature can make Basset Hound training very challenging.
A Basset Hound will fit perfectly in a family for they are gentle with children. These dogs are also friendly with other people. They are not aggressive except in the presence of other male dogs. They are even called lazy dogs because they like taking naps. But basset hounds are also known for their impeccable sense of smell that aids them in hunting. Basset hound hunting training is required if you want your dog to be a hunting companion as well as a house pet.
Basset hounds are short and solid hunting dogs which originated in Europe. They gained attention in Europe and reached the shores of the United States in the 19th century. These dogs weigh between 50-65 pounds (22.7-29.5 Kgs) and grow to about 15 inches (38 cm) tall. They have a short dense coat that comes in white, tan, yellow, and black and have no strict rules in coloring.
They may be friendly and gentle, but these hounds are not the easiest dogs to live with or train. They are not eager to follow a command and are very stubborn. Owners of this breed should be patient, amiable and consistent. Gentle and positive Basset hound training techniques as opposed to harsh dog training methods is recommended. The Basset Hound training methods used are generally different from those used with other breeds, due to their short legs and long bodies.
Training basset hound puppies is truly a challenge for dog owners. They are stubborn and easily forget what they have been taught. They should not be allowed to climb stairs, sofas or beds until 18 months old. Their legs are simply too fragile and too short at a tender age and such activities might cause issues and injuries later. Never train a Basset Hound without giving him treats or rewards. Basset Hound obedience training will be mainly all about getting them motivated to obey you by giving them rewards. They respond well with positive reinforcement, but one should be careful in giving them treats because obesity is a prime problem with Basset hounds. Make sure the treats are healthy and only small titbits.
Teaching dogs where to eliminate their waste to avoid accidents is an important concern in Basset Hound training. Potty training basset hound dogs can be done properly with the aid of crate training. Confine your dog in a crate for short periods of time. Dogs are den animals, so make the crate your dog’s den. The den is where your dog would eat, sleep, and spend time. By instinct, a dog does not want to eliminate in his den. Get the dog out of his crate to go outside and relieve himself. By doing this, it can be made a routine. Never punish a dog during potty accidents unless you have caught him in the act. Then simply shout “NO!”, stop him, and bring him outside.
A very important part of a dog’s life is exercise. Basset hounds should be taken out for short walks regularly. Always walk your dog on a leash to prevent it from sprinting away from you. Basset hounds love to follow a scent and easily get distracted. Your dog will not hear you calling him because he is so preoccupied in tracking the scent, and could easily disappear.
It is also important not to take your Basset for long walks as it may cause them injuries due to their short legs and long, heavy bodies. Thus Basset Hound training and walks should not exceed sixty minutes since it can cause long term health problems.
Raising a basset hound to being a good dog is up to you. However it does take a lot of time, patience, and commitment. Before deciding on getting one as your pet, be sure to have more than a handful of basset hound training tips which can be found in books and videos. Obedience classes are also available to ensure good canine citizenship. Remember, there are no bad dogs just bad owners.
