Table of Contents
Are Basset Hounds lazy
The Basset Hound does emit a constant low energy vibe. They are very laid back and it does appear that they have a tendency to be lazy.
It is not that they are not capable of expending a lot of energy. They were bred hunting, so they are capable of chasing and tracking when they want to.
Basset Hounds are known for being stubborn and strong willed and generally won’t do anything they don’t want to.
But does that actually mean they are lazy? Or is it just a case of motivation? Basset Hounds can be quite stubborn and are prone not to move unless they have a good reason.
A lazy Basset Hound, when given the right encouragement and motivation will surprise you.
What contributes to a Basset Hound being lazy
Basset Hounds have very compact short legs, but their bodies are comparable to a medium-sized dog. They can weigh up to sixty pounds.
Basset Hounds love food and are prone to obesity and this contributes to them becoming lazy. They have heavy bones and are quite muscular. They are not built for athletic activities but they do have moderate exercise needs.
Basset Hounds are also prone to a few health issues many of which effects their bodies. They are prone to back and spine issues such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD.
Other issues that affect them include elbow dysplasia and patellar (knee joint) luxation. These health issues can make them reluctant to move if it is not necessary.
Basset Hound exercise needs
Basset Hounds have moderate exercise needs of between 30 to 60 minutes daily. Exercise is important for Basset Hounds to maintain their overall health and well being. It is also crucial to prevent boredom as Basset Hounds can become a little mischievous if they become bored.
It is important to encourage your Basset Hound to exercise as they are prone to a few health issues. Keeping them active will keep their joints mobile and muscles strong.
Exercise is also crucial for Basset Hounds to help manage their weight. Basset Hounds do love food and can be prone to being overweight. This obviously puts more strain on their bodies and their hearts.
For a full guide to Basset Hound exercise see here.
How to motivate a lazy Basset Hound
Going for walks
Most Basset Hounds love going for walks. Being a hunting and tracking dog, getting outside is natural for them. They enjoy the outdoors, especially when spending time with you. Basset Hounds are a pack dog and as a result, they love spending time with their pack.
However, if they don’t want to walk it is not uncommon for them to just lay down and refuse to move.
The walk is not only a good opportunity to give your lazy Basset Hound some exercise. Being out and about provides plenty of opportunity for mental stimulation and enrichment too.
This is not about walking further or for more time. It is about maximizing the benefits by walking smarter. For some suggestions to increase the amount of dog enrichment on walks see here.
Scenting and nose games
A Basset Hounds brain is ruled by their nose. They where bred to lock on to a scent and follow it till the end. Playing scenting and nose games is a great way to motivate a lazy Basset Hound.
See here for ideas of scenting and nose games for your Basset Hound.
Food and eating
Basset Hounds love food. This is why many Basset Hounds become overweight and even obese.
However, food can be used as a great motivation to make them more active. The trick is to make them work for their food. This not only encourages them to be more active, but provides mental enrichment also.
To learn more about food enrichment for dogs see here.
Provide the right type of toys
Toys are a great way to occupy a dog. Selecting the best toys that encourage your Basset Hound to be active will make a big difference. Dog toys that cater to the natural traits and instincts of the Basset Hound will be best.
For the best type of toys for Basset Hounds see here.
Play when they want to play
The best time to get your Basset Hound active is when they are wanting to play. If they are fast asleep having one of their many daily naps, you have little chance of getting them moving.
When they are up and about, seize the opportunity to play a game or go for a walk.
Conclusion – Are Basset Hounds lazy
Basset Hounds are laid back and have a low energy vibe about them. This doesn’t mean that they are necessarily lazy. It is just part of their charm and personality.
It is important to encourage and motivate your Basset Hound to be active and exercise. Exercise is important for Basset Hounds to maintain their overall health and well being. It is also crucial to prevent boredom as Basset Hounds can become a little mischievous if they become bored.
Basset Hound related posts