Are Basset hounds good apartment dogs? This question has been asked a lot and for a good reason. Some dogs are perfect for apartments, some are perfect for a farm. But, where do Basset hounds stand on this question? Are basset hounds good apartment dogs?
For all of you out there who live in an apartment and want to add an addition to the family, I, as a Basset hound owner will do my best to answer this question.
Are Basset Hounds Good Apartment Dogs?
Basset Hounds are great apartment dogs because they are generally quiet and relatively calmer than many other breeds. They require comparatively little exercise, making them excellent for a more sedentary lifestyle in an apartment setting.
Basset hounds are low-energy dogs and like to have a nice place to bask in the sun. They can live in an apartment, but they don’t do well without some type of outdoor space. If you live in an apartment or condo, even a dog run or tiny garden space will do.
A Basset hound is a dog that doesn’t need a lot of physical activity. Usually, a slow walk around the block is sufficient. If you have an active lifestyle and your hobby is hiking, you could take your Basset hound with you. They are not the fastest dogs but are known for their endurance.
Although Basset hounds love spending time indoors with the family, they do like to get out often and dig a hole or chase butterflies. I am not saying that you shouldn’t get a Basset hound if you live in an apartment. All I am saying is that you will have to get out more often to keep your puppy happy.
Before you get a Basset hound to live with you in your apartment, you should consider preparing your home for an addition. See here: How To Prepare Your Home For a Basset Hound. You can compensate for the lack of outdoor space with a peaceful and quiet home.
Peace and Quiet Are Ideal For Basset Hounds
If you or some of your family members are hyperactive, the basset hound might not be a perfect choice. Basset hounds aren’t very active dogs and never will be. If you are looking for a dog that will run with your children all day long, you will be disappointed with this breed.
Although Basset Hounds are seemingly perfect in temperament for elderly and handicapped family members, they are too powerful for their own good.
While a small Basset hound puppy might be able to keep up with the active children, a grown Basset won’t certainly be able to. The older the Basset hound gets, the more peace and tranquility he needs. So, what kind of household do you have? Are your family members hyperactive or you?
If you think that you will be able to provide the peace that a Basset hound requires in order to be happy, then go ahead and get a Basset. It doesn’t matter if you live in an apartment. You can always go out to a park and walk your puppy.
Basset Hounds Are Sloppy Souls
Basset hounds are messy drinkers and their long ears drag through everything. Plus, they love sniffing the ground and cannot hear you when they are in their element.
To be honest, Basset hounds make a lot of mess. You will have to think about that before you get one to live in your apartment. Basset hounds are probably the dirtiest dogs because they are always digging, drooling, and sloshing water when they drink. If you are a clean fanatic, this breed might not be the right match for you.
Basset Hounds Are Talkative Critters
Basset hounds may be lazy, but they are definitely not quiet. These dogs bark, howl, and growl when you leave them alone. Almost all Basset hounds suffer from separation anxiety. That is another thing that you have to consider. Not sure if your neighbors will like the idea that you bring a Basset hound into your apartment.
You may run to the store to buy some groceries and come back only to see your neighbors filing a police report due to your dog’s howls. There are ways to train your Basset hound not to bark, but you will have to be there to give the command. When you leave for work and you leave your Basset hound alone, be sure that he will bark, and bark.
Consider Carefully Before Getting a Basset Hound To Live in Your Apartment
You have to understand that Basset hounds can become stressed, destructive, and very noisy if left by themselves for long periods of time.
If you have an active lifestyle and you plan to leave your Basset hound in your apartment by himself, that will not go well. You might want to think about getting a second dog to keep your Basset hound company, or choose another breed that is not as socially dependent.
Sadly, many Basset hound owners ditch their dogs because they are a handful. You will experience both positive and negative behavioral traits, that is the truth. That’s why it’s important to do research about the Basset breed before you get a dog.
Be sure that you and your family members are up for the task before making the commitment to a Basset hound who expects you to be his forever family.
In Conclusion
Basset hounds are low-energy dogs that love to relax throughout the day. They enjoy digging holes, and love sunbathing. Bassets require very little physical activity, so a walk around the block will be fine. They will bark and howl if you leave them alone in your apartment while you are at work. You will have to consider getting another dog to keep him company.
They are also very dirty dogs. Their ears drag on the ground and they love digging holes. So, when you come back from the park, you will have to clean his paws and wipe his ears or all of that dirt will be spread in your apartment. These messy drinkers also love t sniff around the apartment. You will have to puppy-proof your apartment before getting a Basset hound.
