Choosing Toys For Your Basset Hound

Have you ever thought of providing toys for your Basset Hound? Having Dogs is just like having children. They almost have the same needs when it comes to care, attention and love. They should be well taken cared of in order for them to grow healthy and happy. Aside from providing right kinds of foods and proper grooming, every Dog owner should also make sure that their beloved four legged friend is happy and is not bored and neglected.

Providing toys for your Basset Hound to play with is essential in keeping him entertained and happy. There are various types of toy Dogs to choose from. There are chew toys, fetch toys, plush and stuffed toys, rope toys, kongs, interactive toys and toys good for dental health. Some toys are shaped like bone, some looks like a ball and some are just plain. Choosing which among these toys is very crucial since we all know that dogs can not directly tell their owners what they really like.

In choosing which among the many types of dog toys, experts suggest to give different types of toys. Then take note which among those toys he wants to play most of the time and if you notice that your dog is bored and wants something new, do give him a other set of toy. Just be sure that your dog will like these new toys.

Take note, you just can't give anything to your Basset Hound. There are many factors to consider when choosing what are the types of toys you are going to give him. Consider the size of your dog and the toy. Your dog might swallow and choke if the toy is too small for him. On the other hand, toys created for large breed may not be appropriate for smaller toys. If your dog loves to chew, he should not be given with toys that tear apart when chewed or wrecked into pieces when your dog bites it off. The toy should also be durable and easy to wash or clean.

If you think that a dog toy is not that important, think again! Toys are more than just something to play with when your dog is alone and bored. With the assistance of toys, training becomes easier and more successful. Toys also help in avoiding behavioral problems such as stress and anxiety. These behavioral problems, if not addressed immediately may lead to more problems like excessive barking and chewing.

To sum it all up, the toy for your beloved pet should be durable, easy to handle, entertaining and more importantly, it should be safe.

Richard Cussons is not just a writer but also a great lover of dogs. Discover more about Basset Hound dog at this site dedicated to Basset Hound.

Basset Hounds: Ten Things to Know About this Lovable Pet

Basset Hounds are among the most companionable and lovable Dogs on the planet. Here are ten characteristics of the breed you need to know before bringing a Basset into your life.

1. Bassets seem to love everyone:
It's difficult to imagine a sweeter, gentler or more peaceful Dog. An adult basset on a walk in the park will try to make friends with almost everyone. Strangers seem drawn to him, will want to pet and coo over him. Emotionally, he sometimes seems almost human. His temperament is very well suited for a family setting. He's really good with children and other Dogs. He loves to play. Aggression is very rare. Don't expect him to be a guard dog.

2. Sense of Smell:
His sense of smell is second only to the bloodhound. Bassets were bred for hunting small game. His nose can lead him into danger. He's an escape artist and a wanderer. It's advisable to keep him in an enclosed area and on the leash during walks. Left to his own devices, he'll follow his nose wherever it takes him.

3. Intelligence:
Because of his clown like demeanor, laid back attitude and a streak of stubbornness, there are those who stereotype the basset as dumb. Don't believe it. On the contrary, he's a past master at getting his way. Clownishness, soulfulness and contemplative assessment of any situation are all part of his arsenal to win you over.

4. Puppies & Housebreaking:
Admittedly, housebreaking is difficult. If patience is not your long suit, you may want to consider a grown hound from rescue. In housebreaking a basset puppy, gentle tolerance and persistence, with plenty of positive reinforcement, will yield success. During his first year, refrain from allowing him to go down long stairs or jump off couches. His lengthy back is prone to problems during the formative stage if too much stress is applied.

5. Drool:
OK, he drools. Some bassets drool more than others. You'll accept drool, because you just love him to death.

6. Weight:
Since he's prone to weight gain and bloat, as is common among all deep-chested breeds, he should be fed reasonable portions only twice a day. Bassets tend to overeat. Remember that they're long and low, and excess weight can lead to back injury. At a minimum, a daily walk is a must.

7. Ears:
Bassets' long ears do not provide good air circulation and are prone to infection. Cleaning weekly and application of an ear wash solution from a veterinarian are required. While frequent baths are not necessary, the ears drag in everything and may need scrubbing more often.

8. Care and Maintenance:
With the exception of the ears and drool, bassets are easy to keep clean. His short, dense coat repels dirt and water. Bassets do shed, but regular brushing and removal will keep it to a minimum. Bathing about once a month is all that's needed.

9. Compact Big Dogs:
His short stature is deceptive. Most bassets weigh in the range of 50 to 65 pounds. He has more bone for his size than any other breed. Because of his short legs, he may have difficulty jumping into some vehicles.

10. Barking:
Bassets are not given to excessive barking. Since he is very much a pack animal, he may howl if left alone for long periods. He's vocal and often makes a variety of sounds in keeping with his mood, especially when excited about the prospect of a walk or play.

If you're looking for a gentle companion that's easy to care for and gets along well with everyone, you'd be hard put to do better than a basset hound. Please consider rescuing a basset. Just do a search for "basset rescue" on Google to find dogs in your area.

Robert G. Knechtel maintains several websites, including PetMedShop.Com and Go60.Com