Basset Hounds are known to be heavy shedders, with some owners reporting that they shed up to 50% of their coat in the spring.
Their thick, short coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. This includes daily brushing and occasional bathing.
Basset Hounds have two layers of fur, with the undercoat shedding more than the topcoat. This is why they shed heavily during seasonal changes.
Their shedding can be managed with regular grooming and the right tools, such as a slicker brush or pin brush.
Basset Hound Characteristics
Basset Hounds are known for their short stature, with adults typically reaching 10-15 inches in height and weighing between 45-65 pounds.
Their short legs are a result of their unique skeletal structure, which is designed for their specific purpose as hunting dogs.
Basset Hounds have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
Their ears, on the other hand, are long and droopy, which can sometimes get in the way of their vision and hearing.
Basset Hounds are also known for their calm and gentle nature, making them a great fit for families with children.
Their intelligence level is average, which means they can be trained with patience and consistency.
Basset Hounds are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and ear infections, due to their unique physical characteristics.
Their short nose and flat face can also make breathing a challenge, especially in hot or humid weather.
Despite these potential issues, Basset Hounds are generally a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 10-12 years.
Their calm and gentle nature makes them a great choice for apartment living, as they require minimal exercise and are relatively quiet.
Reducing Dog Shedding
Reducing dog shedding is a must for Basset Hound owners. Regular brushing can keep shedding under control.
Weekly brushings are necessary to manage shedding in Basset Hounds. Brushing your dog's teeth with specially formulated pet toothpaste twice a week is also an important part of Basset care.
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You can't keep your Basset Hound from shedding altogether, but you can reduce their shedding considerably with a few key guidelines. Shedding is normal and natural for Basset Hounds.
Consistent grooming enhances their skin's vitality and minimizes shedding. It also allows you to monitor any abnormal signs like skin irritation or parasites.
Basset Hounds are not hypoallergenic, and their coats produce plenty of dander. This can cause reactions in some people.
Basset Hound Care
Basset hounds have a short coat that's low-maintenance, but weekly brushing is necessary to keep shedding under control.
Their short coats require less grooming than some other breeds, but it's essential to brush them regularly to prevent matting and tangling.
Basset hounds also need regular nail trimming, as long nails can cause discomfort and health issues.
Their floppy ears can trap debris and dirt, leading to infections if not cleaned properly. Basset hounds require extra ear care, with daily cleaning around the eyes and regular ear cleaning to prevent infections.
Regular veterinary appointments are also crucial to ensure your basset hound stays healthy.
Care Tips
Basset hounds have short coats that are low-maintenance, but they still need weekly brushing to keep shedding under control.
Their eyes and face folds require regular cleaning to prevent debris buildup and keep their skin healthy. This should be done multiple times a week.
Regular brushing is a good time to check for coat sheen, nail length, and ear and dental health. A dull coat can indicate a lack of nutrients in their diet.
Basset hounds need their nails trimmed frequently, as long nails can be painful and even lead to health issues. If you can hear them tapping against the floor, it's time for a trim.
Brushing their teeth with canine toothpaste twice a week can help prevent dental problems. This is especially important for basset hounds, as they can be prone to dental issues.
Their long, floppy ears require extra care to prevent infections. This includes regular cleaning and checking for dirt and grime. It's essential to consult with your vet for the proper way to care for their ears.
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Daily cleaning around their eyes is crucial to prevent debris buildup and potential health issues. This is especially important for basset hounds, as their eyes can collect debris easily.
Basset hounds can be headstrong and slow to train, so it's essential to make training a game and involve treats and toys to keep them engaged. This will help them focus and make progress in their training.
Diet
Basset Hounds need a balanced diet to stay healthy and reduce shedding. A dog that doesn't get all the nutrients they need will likely shed more.
Commercial dog foods have the bare minimum for your Basset Hound, but they may benefit from additional nutrients like omega fatty acids. These can improve their skin and coat health, reducing shedding.
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to excessive shedding, so it's essential to choose a food that meets your Basset Hound's needs or work with your vet to select supplements.
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Brushing
Basset Hounds shed, and it's a good idea to brush them regularly to reduce the amount of fur that ends up around the house. Brushing can help prevent fur buildup on floors and furniture.
To brush a Basset Hound, use a pin brush, as it works well for their coat type. Combs and similar tools don't work as well, and are better suited for reducing matting.
Brushing your Basset Hound regularly can also keep their coat clean to some extent, removing dirt and dust. This can reduce the number of baths they need, which can in turn help reduce shedding.
Weekly brushings can keep shedding under control, and it's a good idea to brush your Basset Hound in the direction of hair growth. Pay attention to commonly overlooked areas like the underbelly and armpits.
Brushing your Basset Hound is not just about making their coat look shiny and neat, but also serves as an early detection system for potential health issues. Take the opportunity to check for irregularities like bald spots, ticks, fleas, or skin irritations during your brushing session.
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Return
Returning home with your new Basset Hound is just the beginning. They can live up to 10-12 years.
Regular grooming is a must for Basset Hounds, especially during shedding season. They shed heavily twice a year, with peak shedding in spring and fall.
Their short coats require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. This helps reduce shedding and prevents hair from getting everywhere.
Basset Hounds are relatively low-maintenance pets, but their shedding requires regular attention. They need to be brushed daily, especially during shedding season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are basset hounds hypoallergenic?
Basset Hounds are not hypoallergenic due to their moderate shedding and dander production. They may not be suitable for households with allergy sufferers.
How to stop a Basset Hound from shedding?
Basset Hounds shed heavily, but regular bathing with oatmeal-based shampoo and conditioner can help reduce loose hairs. Consider using a Furminator to minimize shedding, but bathing is a more frequent solution
Sources
- Basset Hound Club of America (basset-bhca.org)
- basset hound breeder (basset-bhca.org)
- About Bassets (basset-bhca.org)
- The Basset Hound: is it the right breed for you? (myfamilyvets.co.uk)
- How Much Does a Basset Hound Shed? Facts & FAQ (dogster.com)
- Basset Hound World on Instagram (instagram.com)
- Basset Hound World on Pinterest (pinterest.com)
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