09/19/2024
This is copied from a Basset owner and SO TRUE! ❤️
I wrote this today for a FB Basset Hound group. It's long but in my opinion, humorous. Don't feel obligated to read the whole thing, but I know there are some of you who may appreciate my musings.
To the many posters seeking tips and info about Bassets, either while researching the breed or after bringing one home....this is for you. To those who have or previously had Bassets, I am sure many will nod your head in agreement and some may possibly be amused by my post. If you've never had a Basset Hound, I'm sorry.......but there's still time to fix that!! Lol
They are the quirkiest breed I have ever encountered. The most loyal, patient, gentle, STUBBORN and intelligent (take note of the caps in that sentence). If they don't follow a command, it's not because they can't/won't listen or learn, it's because they are "Thinking dogs".....they think about what you say, interpret it as a subtle suggestion, and only then decide if they want to. For example, if they agree with your command (request) to come in, they will meander in your general direction doing a Basset Hound sprint (turtles move faster) and take the LONGEST route possible. (Odds of this happening are directly proportional to how much they like whatever bribe you are offering). However, even their favorite treat is not always enough to lure a Basset Hound into the house when they want to lounge in the sun.
Patience is vital, second in importance only to the ability to laugh (frequently & out loud).
They make messes but are helpful with cleaning. You will never have crumbs on the floor nor wash dishes storing leftovers. There are never any leftovers. Side by side trails of water on the floor, created by ears falling into the water bowl (aka "skid marks") are just their way to give you a hand with mopping.
Their sense of smell is incredible. Hiding junk food from your kids is not worth the effort. They can sniff out an open bag of Doritos or a drop of ice cream the size of a pea from 1/2 mile away.
Their hearing is near perfect when you slice yourself a piece of cake on the other end of the house.
You will quickly learn to duck when they shake their head and spray "jowl juice" over an area that defies physics.
They steal your heart and give you theirs.
They are amazing companions.
Your first Basset isn't just a dog, it's a gateway drug. One becomes "not enough" and if you aren't very careful, people around town will start accurately referring to you too as "That Crazy Basset Hound Lady/ Man" (been there.....still there). I started with one and now have 4. (When a king bed is too small....you shouldn't get more. Lol)
I have wanted a Basset since high school and I waited 25 years for it. I have not regretted getting them for even a minute (though I questioned my sanity when i kept 2 puppies from my litter.) They are my pup-tarts and bring me so much happiness. Some things are just worth waiting for.
(See! I have actual reasons for my insanity.....or at least that's what I tell myself)
Sincerely,
(The self-proclaimed) Crazy Basset Hound Lady
