Is the Basset Hound a good dog to own?

Recently, many friends have privately asked me about Basset Hound care methods and precautions. After answering these questions multiple times, I’ve noticed that quite a few people still have limited knowledge about this breed, and the actual number of owners is relatively small. I’ve only been raising a Basset Hound for a year—though I can’t claim to be a seasoned dog owner, I’ve devotedly accompanied my puppy through its growth. Therefore, I’d like to share the practical experience I’ve accumulated during this time.

I. Proper Leash Usage

Regarding leash use, three key points demand attention. First, it prevents dogs from wandering off, darting into traffic, or being maliciously detained by others. Second, it prevents dogs from startling others. Personally, I find it unacceptable when owners walk their dogs off-leash and then justify it by saying, “My dog doesn’t bite.” Whether a dog is aggressive has nothing to do with others. Most people have a natural fear of dogs, and owners should not substitute their own preferences for others’ feelings. Third, it reduces accidents during mating season. Female dogs in heat are prone to wandering off, while males may roam in search of females. Without restraint, this can lead to loss or fights with other dogs. Unneutered dogs retain their instincts, making proper leash management beneficial for both owners and others.
Throughout my Basset Hound’s life, I’ve consistently used a harness-style leash. This breed has loose neck skin and a broad chest, making collars uncomfortable. Harnesses are far more suitable. Recently switching to a retractable leash exceeded my expectations.

II. Key Points for Basset Hound Ear Care

Next is ear hygiene. Basset Hounds have aesthetically pleasing ears, but their long, drooping ears can cover the ear canal, making them prone to debris buildup. Untimely cleaning can foster bacterial growth and ear mites. While some perceive Basset Hounds as having a strong body odor, the primary source is actually their ears. Thorough ear cleaning significantly reduces this odor. It should be noted, however, that even mild odors may be noticeable to non-dog owners, a point for owners to understand.
After trying various cleaning products, I currently use only Vick Ear Cleaner for my dog’s ears. This product dissolves ear debris, allowing the dog to shake it out effortlessly, making it very convenient. Cleaning frequency can be adjusted based on the owner’s schedule. My dog is cleaned every other day, while some owners opt for weekly cleaning. I recommend increasing the frequency of ear inspections to prevent ear mite infestations.
If ear mites are present, owners need not panic (Note: Ear mites appear as dark brown, lumpy debris with a distinct odor and reproduce rapidly, making them relatively easy to identify). Treatment involves cleaning the ear canal before applying medication. Numerous over-the-counter options exist; the author keeps anti-mite ointment on hand for its cost-effectiveness and ease of use. For application, wear disposable gloves, apply the ointment to your fingertip, clean the ear canal with Vic Ear Cleaner, pat dry, then gently massage the ointment into the ear. Daily treatment is required during infection, with symptoms typically subsiding within a week. Follow-up treatment for consolidation is still necessary.

III. Basset Hound Diet Management

The third point concerns preventing scavenging and selecting appropriate diets for Basset Hounds. Basset Hounds are highly adaptable eaters and rarely picky. The author once discovered foreign objects like plastic bags, fabric strips, and tissues in the feces of their own dog, “Kevin.” Therefore, it is personally recommended that owners confine their dogs in crates when leaving the house to prevent accidental ingestion of foreign objects. Of course, some owners practice free-roaming without incident, so adjustments should be made based on individual feeding habits and training levels—details beyond this scope.
Regarding dietary choices for Basset Hounds, opinions vary among owners. Scientifically speaking, commercial dog food serves as the most suitable staple. High-quality formulas offer balanced nutrition, and given physiological differences between humans and dogs, minimizing human food intake is advisable. However, I do not exclusively rely on commercial dog food. My dogs, “Hua Hua” and “Kevin,” receive not only dog food and pet-specific treats but also moderate portions of my favorite foods, such as apples, pears, watermelon, cabbage, carrots, and peaches. I also regularly feed them chicken necks, chicken breast, beef, stewed potatoes, and occasionally share small amounts of cookies. Ultimately, feeding practices vary by owner. Foods toxic to dogs—like chocolate and onions—must be strictly prohibited. For other foods, consider your dog’s emotional state—when I eat, both dogs often drool with longing beside me, making it hard to deny them completely.
For inexperienced owners, high-quality natural dog food alone suffices as the main diet. Its nutrition adequately meets Basset Hound needs and aligns with scientific feeding principles. If adding other foods, controlling portions usually prevents serious issues. These suggestions apply to healthy dogs. My dog “Kevin” has had weak digestive function since puppyhood and was fed only dog food without supplements for a long time. Whenever I eat, Kevin’s pleading gaze is heartbreaking. Yet due to his digestive issues, I dare not feed him anything beyond dog food and probiotics. Illness often stems from the mouth, so when unsure about food safety, owners should stick to a single dog food brand or consult professionals before deciding on feeding content.
Regarding feeding amounts, adjustments must be made based on each dog’s specific circumstances. Just like humans, even dogs of similar age, gender, and weight may have different appetites. Owners who have raised their dogs from puppyhood are better equipped to gauge their ideal portion sizes. New owners should consult professionals or follow the recommended feeding amounts on dog food packaging. Puppies, in particular, lack a strong sense of fullness and may overeat, leading to discomfort. Therefore, it’s better to err on the side of caution and feed less until the dog’s standard portion is clearly established.

IV. Home Management of Common Basset Hound Conditions

Daily management approaches for Basset Hound vomiting, diarrhea, and ear mites. These symptoms are relatively common in Basset Hounds. Before intervention, confirm the dog is not infected with severe diseases like parvovirus or distemper and remains in good spirits. Home management is appropriate when only mild symptoms are present. Parvovirus and distemper primarily affect puppies. Owners must ensure timely vaccinations and regular deworming for young dogs. Comprehensive preventive measures will be covered separately; this guide focuses solely on managing mild, everyday symptoms. Additionally, it should be noted that the author personally tends to avoid taking dogs to veterinary clinics for minor symptoms, primarily due to concerns about exposure to pathogens in the hospital environment. This is not intended to disparage veterinary clinics, which remain crucial for professional diagnosis and treatment. It simply reflects the view that routine minor issues do not warrant excessive trips.
For Basset Hound vomiting and diarrhea, a direct and effective approach is: withhold food and water for one day to observe symptom resolution. If symptoms subside, gradually resume normal feeding. Alternatively, keep over-the-counter oxytetracycline and pediatric montmorillonite powder on hand. Administered as directed, symptoms typically improve by the next day. If symptoms persist for three days without improvement, seek veterinary care promptly. My dog “Kevin” suffered from chronic loose stools and diarrhea. Through persistent dietary adjustments, I’ve observed similar issues in other dogs and wish to share several management approaches: 1) Switching dog food; 2) Supplementing with probiotics; 3) Reducing food portion sizes. Such adjustments require long-term commitment. Much like humans, some dogs have inherently sensitive digestive systems—not necessarily due to illness—that necessitate ongoing care. Treatment for ear mites was detailed earlier. I recommend keeping Vectain Ear Drops, anti-mite ointment, and Ear Kang on hand for prompt response. I also encourage experienced dog owners to share additional methods—I would be most grateful.