Pet Insurance for your Basset Hound Dog
Known for its long, soft ears, droopy-eyed appearance, short legs and keen sense of smell, the Basset Hound is a beautiful dog that makes an excellent family pet. As a pure breed dog, it may be prone to genetic conditions, so pet insurance for your Basset Hound Dog will help keep your beloved family pet as happy and healthy as possible.
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Basset Hound Dog Background
Basset Hounds were first bred in France in the 16th century as a hunting dog. Their exceptional sense of smell and small stature made them perfect for hunting rabbits and small game. This made them a popular choice for the French nobility, especially Emperor Napoleon III, who was passionate about the breed.
By the 19th century, Bassets were exported to England, followed by the United States later in the century. Over time, hunting reduced, and the breed became much-loved companion animals due to their gentle and affectionate nature.
The Basset Hound has transitioned from a hunting dog to a loyal and loving family member. It charms people with its droopy eyes, long, silky ears, and trademark howl.
Why Choose PIA for the Dog Insurance of Your Basset Hound Dog?
Pet Insurance Australia offers coverage for up to 80% or 90% of eligible vet bills#, a 21-day cooling-off period, friendly customer service, and two months free on any new pet insurance plan.*
*Depending on your level of cover.
Basset Hound Dog Characteristics
The Basset Hound Dog is one of the most recognisable dog breeds in the world, with their undeniably long bodies, short legs, oversized heads with big ears and melancholy eyes.
Basset Hounds are very gentle and affectionate dogs, so they adapt well to families and other animals when socialised early. They love to live indoors with their family and need moderate daily exercise to prevent obesity. Due to their short legs, walking is recommended as they won’t enjoy being a running partner.
Your Basset Hound may be stubborn, making training a little tricky. Training needs to be consistent and use positive reinforcement, such as food rewards and praise.
Bassets are also known for having selective hearing, taking off following a sound or scent that captures their attention. For this reason, walking on a lead and interactive toys and games are always recommended to aid training and keep their attention.
Due to its unique body structure, this iconic purebred dog is prone to certain health conditions, so having pet insurance for your Basset Hound will help them receive the best possible care.
Fast Facts
Average Height
Female: 30-38cm
Male: 28-36cm
Average Weight
Female: 20-29kg
Male: 25-34kg
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, laid-back, good with children and pets
Lifespan
10 – 12 years
Known Genetic Issues
Hip or Elbow Dysplasia, Glaucoma, Bloat, Ear & Skin Infections, Intervertebral Disc Disease
Country of Origin
France
Exercise Requirements
Moderate daily exercise is needed to prevent obesity
Coat
A short, smooth coat that needs regular brushing due to their shedding levels
Coat Colours
Tricolour of black, red and white
Specific Care Requirements
Their long ears and skin folds need regular checking and cleaning to prevent infections, with moderate daily exercise to keep them healthy
Basset Hound Dog Common Health Problems
With their short and abnormally shaped legs, Basset Hounds are prone to either Hip or Elbow Dysplasia, where the joints don’t fit properly together. These genetic conditions cause pain, lameness and arthritis. Your vet may prescribe pain relief medication or corrective surgery for extreme cases.
Basset Hounds are prone to developing Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects the optic nerve and leads to vision loss. If you notice their eyes are red, teary, bulging, or squinting, take them to the vet immediately for an eye assessment and pain relief medication.
Bloat is a common complaint for the Basset Hound dog breed. Excess gas or air fills the stomach and can’t be expelled, requiring an emergency vet visit. Bloat can be avoided by slowing eating, avoiding exercise after meals, and feeding a few smaller meals during the day.
Basset Hounds are known for having allergies, many of which may lead to ear or skin infections. You must regularly clean (and keep dry) your Basset’s ears and skin folds to remove dirt and moisture to prevent infections. Medication from your vet can help improve these conditions.
The Basset Hound, with a long back and short legs, is prone to developing IVDD. This condition affects the spine and causes the discs between the bones to move, causing pain and paralysis. If you notice your dog is having trouble moving, an emergency vet visit will be needed for diagnosis and medical options, including surgery.
Contact PIA for Pet Insurance for Your Basset Hound Dog Today
To learn more about insurance for your Basset Hound Dog, contact Pet Insurance Australia today. With a range of coverage options, fast online claims and excellent customer service, we’re here to help you ensure your pet enjoys a happy and healthy life with your family.
Insurance disclaimer
Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.
