Basset Hound Health Issues

The basset hound has an average lifespan of 10-12 years.  Though it is a relatively healthy breed, like all dogs, there are certain ailments they are more prone to than others.  Thus, since the potential for certain diseases and conditions are high, it is important that you know what health problems to watch out for, so you can deal with them if they should ever become part of your pet’s future.

Though your basset hound can suffer from many ailments, the following are common concerns:

• Nose infections
  Since bassets are scent hounds they are designed to hunt by using their nose.  Therefore, since you will not be able to train certain instincts out of your dog, his nose will remain close to the ground most of the time.  This leaves his nostrils susceptible to dirt, allergens, bacteria, parasites, and certain viral diseases.
• Ear infections
  The basset has long and floppy ears that lay close to their head. This means the ear canal does not receive proper air flow which can result in a build up of ear wax that can lead to infections.
• Arthritis
  Due to their odd bone structure, the basset hound is prone to this condition.  Excessive jumping and running can be very hard on their short joints, and the continuous stress can eventually cause arthritis to form in the aching joints, making the use of these affected areas very uncomfortable for you pooch.
• Stomach torsion
  This is the term used to describe when a dog’s stomach twists or the end flips.  This means no food is able to get in.  If the condition is not fixed soon after it occurs, the stomach will eventually die and result in the death of the canine.
• Bloat
  This is often the condition that leads to stomach torsion, but the two conditions can also occur separately from one another.  Bloat is when the stomach distends and fills with gas or water, which inhibits the stomach contents from reaching the intestine.  This is a life threatening condition if the basset hound is not treated immediately.  Bloat typically occurs from gulping down lots of air by quickly ingesting large amounts of food followed by water, or ingesting water quickly after strenuous activity.

You need to check your basset hound on a regular basis for signs of any physical anomalies or distress, and make sure their ears and nose are checked and cleaned often.  Remember, if at any time you suspect your dog may be suffering from a health issue have him checked by your veterinarian.