Mary Allen
#16 What makes the Basset Hound special for you?
Anke Lammers: Dogs have always played a role in my life – my family always had four-legged friends in the house, from dachshunds to Saint Bernards or crossbreeds. In the early 70's a basset hound moved in. This dog stood out from all the others because of his character. Years later, I remembered this breed and came across an animal welfare organization that adopts Basset Hounds. We decided on a 6-year-old former breeding bitch who was actually supposed to be put down. This great bitch named Babette made me want to set up a small kennel one day.
What should you consider when buying a basset?
One should obtain comprehensive information about the breed in advance, for example from good breeders who will be happy to advise you. I recommend anyone interested to take a close look at the breeding facilities and the animals and to ask the breeders questions. Conversely, every reputable breeder would like to know in which hands the offspring will come and whether they are the right dog people. When purchasing a basset hound, one must be aware that a dog is moving in that is very present in its character. The Basset is a charmer and can quickly gain the upper hand due to its idiosyncrasy. It should not go high in the new home, because climbing stairs is absolutely taboo for the basset hound due to its anatomy!
What to Consider When Training a Basset Hound
A lot of patience is required from the owner. I always say: what other four-legged friends learn in three months, the basset hound learns three months later! He takes his time thinking and executing. But: This breed wants to learn and must also be challenged. Otherwise, the dogs organize their everyday life themselves. The basset hound loves to sort through rubbish bins or rearrange the decorations. Then he puts on his famous face: I don't understand how that could have happened...