Basset Hound Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Thrombopathia is a genetic bleeding disorder specific to Basset Hounds that affects blood clotting and platelet function. It's completely preventable through simple genetic testing before breeding. By testing both parents and avoiding breeding two affected dogs together, you can ensure all puppies are healthy. Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs, producing healthy puppies. This simple test is the most important health screening for Basset Hounds.

Female Basset Hounds should be bred no more than once per year, with at least one heat cycle skipped between litters. Their unique body structure with long spine and short legs requires adequate recovery time between pregnancies. Most responsible breeders limit females to 3-4 litters in their lifetime to ensure optimal health. Due to their deep chest and heavy bone structure, pregnancy can be more taxing on Basset Hounds than other breeds.

Essential tests include: Thrombopathia genetic test (mandatory for all Basset Hounds), Hip X-rays (OFA recommended), Elbow X-rays (OFA recommended due to front leg strain), Annual eye examinations (CERF/OFA for glaucoma screening), and Complete blood count. These tests ensure you're breeding healthy dogs and producing sound puppies. The thrombopathia test is particularly crucial as this disorder is unique to Basset Hounds.

Yes, Basset Hounds can be prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) due to their long spine and short legs. However, this risk can be significantly reduced through careful breeding selection, maintaining ideal weight in breeding dogs, and avoiding breeding dogs with a history of back problems. Teaching puppy owners about proper lifting techniques, avoiding stairs during growth, and weight management is crucial for spine health.

Basset Hounds' long, pendulous ears trap moisture and reduce air circulation, creating an environment prone to infections. While you can't change ear structure through breeding, you can select for dogs with healthy ear canals and no chronic infection history. Educating puppy buyers about weekly ear cleaning and proper ear care is essential. Some lines have better natural ear health than others.

Basset Hounds have a moderate risk of bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) due to their deep chest. While not as high-risk as Great Danes or German Shepherds, breeders should educate owners about prevention: feeding multiple small meals, avoiding exercise after eating, using elevated feeders cautiously, and recognizing early symptoms. Selecting breeding dogs with no family history of bloat can help reduce risk.

Basset Hounds are slow to mature, typically reaching full physical and mental maturity around 2 years of age. While females may have their first heat cycle at 6-12 months, breeding should wait until at least 2 years old when growth plates have closed and hip/elbow testing can be completed. Males should also wait until 2 years for breeding. This slow maturity rate is important for proper bone development given their unique structure.

Basset Hounds are exceptional scent hounds with 220 million scent receptors. When breeding, consider selecting for strong but manageable scenting drive. Too much drive can make them difficult pets, while too little loses breed character. Their tracking instinct means they need secure fencing and leash training. Breeding for balanced temperament maintains their working ability while ensuring they're suitable family companions.

Basset Hounds are prone to glaucoma (increased eye pressure) and ectropion (drooping lower eyelids). Annual CERF or OFA eye examinations are essential for breeding dogs. Glaucoma can be hereditary and lead to blindness if untreated. Early detection through regular screening helps identify at-risk dogs. Also watch for cherry eye and entropion. Select breeding partners with clear eye examinations and no family history of eye problems.

Basset Hounds can be suitable for dedicated first-time breeders due to their gentle temperament and good maternal instincts. However, their unique challenges require preparation: potential whelping difficulties due to large puppy heads, slow maturity requiring patience, specific health testing requirements (especially thrombopathia), and the need to educate owners about ear care, weight management, and spinal health. Mentorship from experienced Basset Hound breeders is highly recommended.