Basset Hound: Exercise and activity
Plan Basset Hound's activity around both the work the dog enjoys and the recovery it needs afterwards. Schedule the first attempt after the dog's normal age-appropriate outlet, not at peak excitement. Pair physical activity with a breed-appropriate mental outlet and a planned rest period. Increase duration or intensity, never both together, and keep the next rest period predictable.
How to read the activity reference
Basset Hound's exercise is recorded as Basset Hounds are not as active as some breeds, but they do require regular, moderate exercise. Here, that matters because it changes the amount and timing of movement, stimulation, and recovery this situation needs.
Balance movement and recovery
- Pair physical activity with a breed-appropriate mental outlet and a planned rest period.
- Use this exercise note (Basset Hounds are not as active as some breeds, but they do require regular, moderate exercise) to choose the starting amount of movement and the length of the recovery period.
- Increase duration or intensity, never both together, and keep the next rest period predictable.
Stop the activity if
Reduce intensity and seek veterinary advice if exercise causes pain, unusual fatigue, or breathing difficulty.
References
Height: up to 15 inches
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: 40-65 pounds
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 12-13 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: Although it might seem that with his short, smooth hair the Basset Hound won't need any grooming, that's not quite the case. Regular grooming sessions are an important part of keeping the breed healthy and happy. The Basset's short hair can shed profusely. Shedding can be kept under control by gently going over the dog at least once a week with a soft brush…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: Basset Hounds are not as active as some breeds, but they do require regular, moderate exercise. Usually a daily walk at a moderate pace will fill the bill. Exercise will help to keep the Basset healthy and prevent him from becoming overweight. Since the breed was developed to work in a pack with other dogs, Bassets enjoy canine company on their outings, and…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: Basset Hounds are very independent, and training the breed can be a challenge. Over the centuries, scenthounds of this type were developed to hunt on their own and to follow a track without distraction. Because of this, they can seem aloof and not interested in following your commands. However, a Basset definitely can be trained'it will just take time,…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: Among the most appealing of the AKC breeds, the endearing and instantly recognizable Basset Hound is a perennial favorite of dog lovers all over the world. This low-slung and low-key hound can be sometimes stubborn, but is always charming.
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Ophthalmologist Evaluation', 'Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) - DNA Test', 'Thrombopathia (Basset Hound) - DNA Test', 'Lafora Disease - DNA Test', 'Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (Basset Hound) (POAG) - DNA Test']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BassetHound.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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