The basset hound's long and low build makes it susceptible to back injuries and degenerative diseases. Back issues can be worsened by obesity or jarring movements. Running up and down stairs, hopping on and off furniture, or hard play should be avoided, particularly in puppies, to prevent permanent damage.
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Fundamentals
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Daily walks and a moderate diet can reduce the possibility of back or joint problems in your basset hound. The basset hound is a dwarf breed developed to be long and low for hunting small game. The breed standard indicates it should be no more than 14 inches tall at the shoulder.
Basset hound size and shape make the dog's back prone to arthritis, painful disc disorders and injury, according to the Basset Hound Club of Southern California. Disc problems most often develop when the dog is overweight, lacking in light to moderate exercise, or frequently jumping on and off furniture, according to the Dog Owner's Guide
While generally considered a healthy breed, basset hounds are susceptible to some genetic conditions, including a predisposition toward obesity and joint displaysia, which can lead to or worsen back problems. Excess weight strains the dog's spine and legs.
Symptoms
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Signs of back problems in basset hounds include the inability to rise up on its rear legs, paralysis and loss of bladder or bowel control, according to Dog Time. Any indication of back problems in a basset hound should be examined immediately by a veterinarian.
Treatment
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Treating back problems in basset hounds depends on the severity and type of injury or disease. Treatment options include crate confinement, anti-inflammatory medications or, in extreme cases, use of a dog wheelchair or surgery to remove discs, according to Dog Time.
Prevention/Solution
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Back problems can be avoided by limiting a basset hound's use of stairs. Daily walks and a moderate diet help avoid back injuries and other problems that can come from basset hounds being overweight or out of shape, according to the Dog Owner's Guide. Dog Time recommends always supporting a basset hound's back and rear when holding or carrying the dog. Puppies should not be allowed to climb stairs until they are at least 18 months old.
Characteristics
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The basset hound's short legs, heavily boned body, long ears, loose skin and wrinkled face make it immediately recognizable. Its scenting ability is second only to the bloodhound, thanks to the deep muzzle, ground-skimming ears and dewlaps that help trap scent, according to the Basset Hound Club of Southern California. The sturdy legs and loose skin enable the dog to chase game through difficult terrain and thick ground cover.
Basset hounds have easygoing temperaments, although their hallmark strong will and stubbornness require patience in training.
History
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Short, long-bodied dogs similar to the basset hound have been traced back to Egyptian carvings in 2000 B.C., according to the Basset Hound Club of Southern California. The first mention of a similar dog in Europe comes in the sixth century with references to the St. Hubert Hound in France.
By the 1700s, French hunters used the dogs to accompany them on foot in search of small game. Basset hounds reached England in the 1800s and the United States about the same time.
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