How to Care for Bloodhound Puppies

One of the oldest known dog breeds, Bloodhounds have been bred for hunting and are known for their incredibly keen sense of smell. This has put them to work for police forces and hunters throughout the world. However, these dogs may not be right for everyone. Working dogs require a lot of energy, and bloodhounds can weigh more than 100 pounds, so they require a lot of space. Yet as pets, they are gentle and friendly, making them a good choice for a house with children.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Collar and leash
  • Premium dog food
  • Food and water bowl
  • Interactive toys
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Instructions

  1. How to Care for Bloodhound Puppies

    • 1

      Purchase an extra large dog crate, and get a partition that will allow the crate to grow with your bloodhound. Since they grow to 29 inches and more than 100 pounds, you will need a large crate eventually, but too much crate space may allow your puppy to relieve himself in his crate if left too long. To discourage this, your puppy should only have enough room to turn around and lie down. Never leave your puppy in the crate longer than an hour until you know his potty training routine.

    • 2

      Choose a large-breed puppy food, which will often add vitamins to help his joints grow properly. Select a food that has a protein listed among the first three ingredients. Avoid any food that has corn, wheat or meat byproducts. Because your bloodhound will be growing quickly, he will need a high-quality food to reduce the chances of joint problems later in life.

    • 3

      Install thick, large dog beds anywhere your bloodhound will be allowed in your house. These will reduce pressure on the joints, which, again, will ease pain later in life.

    • 4

      Exercise your puppy frequently - bloodhounds require lots of exercise. However, because you must be careful of growing joints, avoid running on hard surfaces, as well as jumping and climbing until your puppy is at least one. Take your puppy on many walks and play games in the house and yard.

    • 5

      Socialize your puppy from the first day you bring him home. Bloodhounds tend to show shyness, so introduce them to many people, noises and pets while still young. The best time for proper socialization of the dog is before it is 14-weeks old, so it's important to get started earlier. If your puppy ever seems shy or unsure, don't force him to greet. Just be patient and ignore him until he begins to approach the object of which he is unsure. Then, be sure to praise and reward with treats.

    • 6

      Provide your bloodhound with many interactive toys for mental stimulation. Bloodhounds are known for their incredible sense of smell, so help your puppy develop its birthright by playing scent games. Hide treats or food around the house or yard and allow it to search for it. Begin by hiding the treat somewhere obvious so the puppy understands the game. Make it harder as the dog improves. Give toys that spit out treats to allow the puppy to exercise on its own. Also, stuff toys such as a Kong, or hollow marrow bones with soft food, peanut butter or liver paste and freeze them. All of these activities will provide your puppy with both mental stimulation and exercise.