Are you wondering how to train a Basset Hound?

The Basset Hound, the "Hush Puppies" breed, is an adorable and well-behaved dog that will melt your heart with its appearance and demeanor. It is also a breed of amazing ability for tracking scents.

Origin of the Basset Hound:

This breed is a very old breed of dog. They were originally developed in France to assist in hunting slow trailing game animals such as rabbits and hares. They are perfect as trail hunters because their slow quiet movements won't easily scare game.

Their popularity was at its peak during the reign of Emperor Napoleon. The true fame of the Basset Hound began in 1863, when it was presented at the Paris Dog Show.

They got their name from the French word 'bas' meaning 'low' in reference to their low set appearance.

Basset Hound Appearance and Abilities:

Do you want a cute and short dog with an impeccable nose? These dogs have short legs. Proportionally, they have heavier bones as compared to other dogs.

Their short build can be deceiving. They are actually long dogs and able to reach counter and table tops to reach food. However, their short limbs and heavy bones make them poor swimmers.

Their skin is extremely loose and falls in folds on their heads. They have long velvety ears that fall way below their noses. They have a naturally sad expression on their faces even when they are happy.

They have short and smooth coats and are accepted in many recognizable colors. There are no rules concerning about coat color and color distribution.

They also have an impeccable sense of smell. Their scent keenness is at par with that of the Bloodhound. They are able to pick up scent from very far and can track its origin with tremendous resolve.

Temperament and Tendencies of Basset Hounds:

Naturally, these dogs are well-mannered and loving dogs. They are never vicious or aggressive as fairly suggested by their melancholic faces. They are very patient and friendly with children.

They are very vocal breeds. They tend to howl or bark if they want something or warn their owners about something. They can whine by murmuring a sound to get attention from their masters. It may sound like they are speaking sometimes.

Training and Care of Basset Hounds:

These dogs will prefer someone to lead them with natural authority. Most dogs battle for the alpha role but Bassets actually prefer it if they are led by gentle consistency.

They respond well with to positive reinforcement. Train them by praising good behavior. Stubborn and wise creatures they are, they will not follow commands if they believe that there is some reward to go with it.

Bassets are rather difficult to train because they are easily distracted by their acute sense of smell. Training them needs persistence and must be done in an area with less distraction from scents.

Always monitor their feedings because overweight Bassets have low life spans. Too much weight will put grave pressure on their legs and spine. Vigorous exercise is not necessary but you should give these dogs their daily dose of walks and soft play.

Grooming them is relatively easy. Occasional baths and brushes are adequate and shampoo only when necessary. Always clean their ears and clip their toe nails. Their nails, when not clip are sharp and can scratch you. Basset Hounds also shed constantly so be sure to brush them frequently.