Basset Hounds make for adorable, long-eared little buddies and are known for their unique looks and exceptional personalities. But while their charm is undeniable, Basset Hounds do come with their own set of training needs. Let’s explore how to help your Basset Hound become a well-behaved and happy member of your family.

1. Basset Hounds Get Loud

Why Basset Hounds Bark

Basset Hounds can be quite vocal. Their deep, howling bark isn’t just loud, it can travel quite a distance. These furry pals often bark to express their curiosity, excitement, or to alert you of something unusual. While this trait makes them good watchdogs, it can also become a bit overwhelming if not properly managed.

When Barking Becomes Too Much

Excessive barking in Basset Hounds can sometimes indicate anxiety, boredom, territoriality, or a need for attention. If left unchecked, this behavior can lead to complaints from neighbors and a generally louder household. It’s important to address the root causes of your Basset’s barking to ensure they’re happy and content.

How to Reduce Basset Hound Barking in 5 Steps

1. Identify Triggers: Determine what causes your Basset Hound to bark excessively. Is it strangers, other animals, or boredom?
2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats or praise when they remain quiet during a trigger scenario.
3. Regular Exercise: Make sure your Basset gets plenty of physical and mental stimulation. A tired dog is less likely to bark out of boredom.
4. Training the Quiet Command: When your Basset Hound starts barking, calmly say “Quiet” in a firm but relaxed tone. Never yell, as this can make them bark more. Wait for even a brief pause in the barking, then immediately reward with a treat and calm praise so they connect silence with something positive. If your Basset still doesn’t stop, show them the treat to capture their attention, and reward as soon as they pause. Practice this in short, consistent sessions until they begin responding to the command even without seeing the treat.
5. Consistency is Key: Ensure that everyone in the household follows the same training methods to avoid confusing your dog.

These steps will help reduce unnecessary barking, but it’s important to remember this behavior is often a sign of deeper issues such as anxiety, territoriality, boredom, or a lack of exercise. And until those root issues are addressed directly, they’ll continue to cause you trouble with your Basset Hound in other areas.

“Okay, so how do I do that then?”

By developing your dog’s intelligence, that’s how! When they get the mental stimulation they desperately need in a loving, fun, and instructional way, all their behavioral problems start to disappear fast.

To make this happen, you’ll play 21 “brain” games created by Adrienne, a CPDT-KA certified dog trainer whose work has been featured in USA Today and Every Dog magazine. See her amazing results in this video with a dog named Maggie (scroll down).

Adrienne’s training games will end bad behavior while also teaching your dog to sit, lie down, stay, heel, drop, and walk calmly by your side. It’s simple, and it will be an absolute blast for you both. She explains exactly how her system works here, go take a look!

2. Basset Hound House Training

Basset Hounds are intelligent but can be a bit stubborn, making house training a bit of a challenge. Consistency and patience are your best friends. Crate training is also highly recommended as these little buddies appreciate having their cozy corner.

3. Basset Hound Exercise Needs

Despite their laid-back appearance, Basset Hounds need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Aim for at least one hour of exercise each day. This could be a combination of walks and playtime in a secure yard. They have a strong sense of smell, so they’ll enjoy sniffing around during your walks!

4. Basset Hound Health Concerns

Like any breed, Basset Hounds have their own set of health concerns, including hip dysplasia and ear infections. Regular vet check-ups are a must to ensure they’re in tip-top shape. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing health issues.

5. Basset Hound Obedience Training

Bassets have an independent streak, making obedience training a must. Begin with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Keep training sessions short but consistent, and always end on a positive note to maintain their enthusiasm.

6. Basset Hound Playtime Activities

Basset Hounds love interactive play! Games like fetch, hide and seek, and even scent-based games can provide both physical and mental stimulation. These activities also help to strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

7. Basset Hound Socialization

Early socialization is important for your Basset Hound. Introduce them to different people, environments, and other animals to build their confidence. Socialized Basset Hounds tend to be more relaxed and well-mannered.

8. Basset Hounds and Separation Anxiety

Basset Hounds can form strong attachments to their families, sometimes resulting in separation anxiety. To mitigate this, practice leaving them alone for short periods, gradually increasing the duration. Provide toys and puzzle games to keep them occupied while you’re away.

9. Basset Hound Dietary Needs

Proper nutrition is critical for a healthy Basset Hound. Speak with your vet to determine the best diet for your dog’s age, weight, and health. Remember, Bassets can be prone to obesity, so measure their food and monitor their weight regularly.

10. Basset Hound Grooming Tips

With their short coat, Basset Hounds are relatively low maintenance in terms of grooming. Regular brushing will help minimize shedding. Don’t forget to check their ears often, as their floppy nature makes them prone to infections.

11. Basset Hound Positive Reinforcement Training

Basset Hounds respond well to positive reinforcement. Use treats, praise, and affection to reward good behavior. Never use punishment, which can lead to confusion and mistrust.

FAQ About Basset Hounds

Are Basset Hounds good with kids?

Yes, Basset Hounds are generally very gentle and patient, making them great family pets. They are known for being affectionate and tolerant, which suits them well for households with children. However, always supervise interactions to ensure safety for both the dog and the child.

Do Basset Hounds get along with other pets?

Basset Hounds typically get along well with other dogs and pets, especially if they’re socialized early. Their friendly and easy-going nature makes them a good fit for multi-pet households. Introductions should be done gradually and under supervision to ensure harmony.

How much exercise do Basset Hounds need?

Despite their laid-back appearance, Basset Hounds need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Aim for at least an hour a day, split between walks and playtime. They enjoy sniffing around, so include time for exploration during your walks.

What kind of temperament do Basset Hounds have?

Basset Hounds are known for their friendly and relaxed temperament. They are very affectionate toward their families and tend to get along well with children and other pets. However, they can be a bit stubborn, so consistent training is important.

Conclusion

Basset Hounds are a fantastic breed full of personality and charm. With the proper training and care, they make wonderful additions to any family. Remember, patience and consistency are key to bringing out the best in your Basset Hound.

P.S. Don’t forget to pin this so you can refer back to all the tips!