Basset Hound Health Problems

Purebreds are all the rage these days, and basset hounds are no exception. They’re adorable, of course, and intelligent, loyal, and a lovely part of any family. However, like any purebred, they’re also prone to a number of health issues that can make owning them absolutely heartbreaking. Owning a pet who is ill can be hard on your entire family, and put you through so much stress and sadness that it can seem like whatever joy you got out of your relationship with your pet wasn’t worth it. That’s why it really pays to be aware of the health problems a breed faces should you bring them into your home.

Basset Hound Blues

Basset hounds can suffer from a variety of different ailments, one of which is a number of bleeding disorders. This sounds worse than it is, though excessive bleeding due to blood not clotting can still be very dangerous, especially if it isn’t treated. If your dog bleeds quite a bit from their wounds, bleeds from their nose or gums, or has blood in their excrement and/or urine, then he or she  may have a bleeding disorder.

Another issue some Basset hounds deal with is bloating, otherwise known a gastric dilatation. With this disorder, the dog’s stomach fills with air and then rotates, a condition which, upon the stomach rotating, can lead to the blood supply being cut off and the dog’s health going downhill very quickly.

Basset hounds have big, floppy, adorable ears, but those ears can sometimes be a huge hindrance for the breed. Those ears can trap dirt and retain moisture, a combination with leads to infections and other ear problems. Bacteria, yeast, allergies, and parasites can all gather in their ears and, without appropriate attention, lead to deafness and other serious issues.

Knowing & Acting

Basset hounds are still a great breed to own – and they certainly aren’t alone in the health problems faced by dogs, especially purebreds. Instead, you must simply be prepared to deal with these health problems and be vigilant when it comes to identifying the signs of this illness. Stay strong and aware, and your dog will be healthy for years to come.