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 Hound
• The challenges of living with a scenthound
• Where to find a good Basset Hound breeder or rescue
• Choosing the right Basset Hound for you
• Preparing your home for a new dog—inside and out
• What to expect the first few days home
• The importance of rules and boundaries in the Basset’s life
• Best practices for grooming your Basset Hound
• Diet and nutrition for the Basset Hound
• Dealing with separation anxiety and other problem behaviors
• Exercising and training your stubborn Basset Hound
• Breed-specific health and wellness information for all stages
• How 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.