Basset Hound Puppy Training: The Surprising Truth About When to Start

The Basset Hound, with its long ears, soulful eyes, and laid-back demeanor, is an endearing breed to many. These scent hounds, originally bred for hunting due to their exceptional sense of smell, are today mostly cherished as loyal companions. Despite their often placid nature, early training is essential for a well-behaved adult Basset Hound. In this article, we will address the optimal time to begin training, potential behavioral issues in untrained Basset Hounds, and the advantages of online dog training courses for your lovable puppy.

 The Ideal Time to Start Training for a Basset Hound Puppy

While it’s true that dogs can be trained at any age, the ideal time to begin training a Basset Hound puppy is as early as 7-8 weeks of age. At this young age, they are like sponges, absorbing and learning rapidly. Short, positive, and frequent training sessions are beneficial as they align with the puppy’s limited attention span. Introducing them to basic commands such as ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘come’ sets a solid foundation for more advanced training in the future.

Socialization, a key aspect of training, should also commence at this early stage. Exposing your Basset Hound puppy to various sounds, sights, experiences, people, and other animals will ensure they grow into a confident and well-rounded adult.

Potential Behavioral Problems in Untrained Basset Hounds Puppy

Basset Hounds are known for their stubbornness. If not trained early, this trait can manifest in numerous behavioral challenges:

1. Stubbornness and Selective Hearing: Without early training, a Basset Hound may decide to heed commands only when they feel like it. Their inherent nature to follow their nose can mean they may ignore recall commands, especially if they’ve picked up an intriguing scent.
2. Excessive Barking: Basset Hounds can be vocal. Without proper training, they might develop a habit of unnecessary barking, which can be problematic for households, especially those in communal living spaces.
3. Possessiveness: Like any dog, untrained Basset Hounds may exhibit signs of resource guarding, whether it’s their food, toys, or even a favorite resting spot.
4. Difficulty in Housebreaking: Bassets can be challenging to housebreak, and without consistent early training, you might find yourself dealing with frequent indoor accidents.
5. Social Challenges: Without proper early socialization, Basset Hounds can become overly wary of strangers or, conversely, overly enthusiastic about meeting new people and pets, leading to potential altercations.

Benefits of Using an Online Dog Training Course for Your Basset Hound Puppy

In today’s digital age, online dog training courses have gained popularity, and they offer unique advantages, especially for Basset Hound owners:

1. Flexibility: Online courses allow you to train your Basset Hound at your own pace. You can rewind, pause, or rewatch sessions as many times as needed. This flexibility ensures that both you and your puppy are at ease, making the training process more effective and less stressful.
2. Access to Expertise: Online platforms often feature experienced trainers who bring a wealth of knowledge. These experts may not be locally available to you, but online courses bridge this gap, ensuring your Basset Hound receives top-notch training guidance.
3. Cost-Effective: Often, online courses are more affordable than hiring a personal dog trainer. Plus, the resources, videos, and materials provided can be revisited without incurring additional costs.
4. Community Support: Many online platforms have community forums or groups where you can interact with other dog owners. Sharing experiences, challenges, and solutions with fellow Basset Hound owners can be both reassuring and enlightening.

The Only 2 Online Puppy Training Courses We Recommend

1. SpiritDog’s Ultimate Puppy Bundle (BEST BUDGET FRIENDLY OPTION)

This comprehensive online puppy training program, designed by experienced trainer Steffi Trott, aims to help dog owners raise a well-behaved, social, and friendly puppy. The course provides lifetime access to over 70 lessons, including videos and an exclusive eBook, with a focus on critical behaviors like biting, potty training, and chewing. Participants can learn at their own pace from home, with the ability to ask unlimited questions to professional trainers. The program promises noticeable improvements in puppy behavior with just 10 minutes of practice per day. It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, lifetime personal support, and seven bonus mini-courses covering specific issues like hyperactivity and separation anxiety.

2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass” (BEST OVERALL)

In addition to basic puppy training, this more comprehensive training class tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog. It’s made in a very easy-to-follow video format.

Related: K9 Training Institute Online Dog Training Review

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Basset Hound’s gentle nature and soulful gaze might make it tempting to let them have their way, early training is imperative for a harmonious household. Whether you choose traditional methods or explore the advantages of online training platforms, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement will ensure your Basset Hound becomes a well-mannered and delightful member of the family.