by Jennifer Hall

Created on: March 19, 2009

I must start off by saying Basset Hounds are absolutely my favorite breed of dog. They are gorgeous and I love those sad eyes and floppy ears. They have a great temperament as well, which I will talk more about now. I am hoping after reading this article you will love the Basset Hound just as much as I do.

The Basset Hound is devoted, sweet, gentle, well behaved, and very peaceful. These dogs are mild mannered but, not timid by no means. Bassets are very affectionate toward their master. They fit very well in family life and they are great with children. Their temperament should always be friendly and never an indication of sharpness unless provoked.

Basset Hounds are scent hounds. They can get a little stubborn because of this sometimes. They like to follow their nose and may not hear you the first time you call them, maybe not even the second time. You just have to find a way to get their attention. One must let the dog know that they are the boss or this stubborn streak might continue.

The Basset Hound is seen by many to be an especially friendly breed. For this very reason they are an excellent dog for children. Basset Hounds should always be on a leash when taken for a walk. They prefer to be taken on nice long walks because this gives them their much needed exercise and helps to keep them slim. Walking them daily is a must because they have a tendancy to become overweight.

Bassets will sometime howl or bark when they want something or they think something is wrong (like a storm). All dogs have great senses and can sense when danger is near sometimes before we can. These animals are very intelligent.

Basset Hounds also have an innate fear of staircases. So, if you own a basset and it won't go near your staircase, now you know why. Never try to force them to go up stairs if they don't want to. It is just fine if they don't want to go up the stairs. They can be just as comfortable downstairs.

In closing, Basset Hounds will tug at your heart strings. They are very devoted to their master or masters. Bassets will fit into any family nicely. This breed of dog can be kept indoors or outdoors. They love to run and jump outside if they get an opportunity to. They can play for hours if you don't stop them. Basset Hounds are very sweet and gentle dogs. As of right now, I do not have one of my own, but I am definitely looking for one. The Basset Hound is really a joy to be around if you ever have an opportunity to do so.

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