Basset Hound Harness: the PerfectFit for your hound!

History of the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a unique and beloved breed with a rich history that dates back several centuries. Known for their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and distinctive low-slung body, Basset Hounds have become popular pets around the world. But how did this charming breed come to be? Let's delve into the fascinating history of the Basset Hound.

Originating in France, the Basset Hound can trace its roots back to the 16th century. The breed was developed through selective breeding of bloodhounds, which were imported by monks from the St. Hubert Monastery in Belgium. These dogs were then crossed with local scent hounds, resulting in the creation of the Basset Hound we know today.

The word "Basset" actually comes from the French word "bas", which means low or short. This name perfectly describes the breed's unique physical characteristics, such as their short legs and long body. These traits were intentionally bred into the Basset Hound to create a dog that could easily track scents on the ground while moving at a slow and steady pace. Basset Hounds were primarily used for hunting small game, particularly rabbits and hares. Their exceptional sense of smell, combined with their low stature, made them excellent trackers. The breed's ability to follow scents for long distances and their remarkable stamina made them indispensable to hunters, especially in dense forests and rough terrains.

During the 19th century, Basset Hounds gained popularity among French aristocrats and royalty as a hunting companion and a fashionable pet. Their charming appearance and gentle temperament made them highly sought after as household pets as well. This rise in popularity led to the breed's exportation to other parts of Europe and eventually to the United States. In the early 20th century, Basset Hounds made their way to America, where they quickly gained a devoted following. The breed's popularity soared after a Basset Hound named "Snoopy" became the beloved companion of the Peanuts comic strip character, Charlie Brown. Snoopy's endearing personality and comical adventures endeared the breed to millions of readers, making the Basset Hound one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world.

Today, Basset Hounds are cherished as family pets, known for their friendly and laid-back nature. They are no longer primarily used for hunting, but their exceptional scent-tracking abilities are still admired. Basset Hound enthusiasts appreciate their loyalty, affectionate nature, and their ability to bring joy and laughter to any household.

Benefits of the Basset Hound

This breed offers a plethora of benefits that make it an excellent choice for both experienced and first-time dog owners. From their gentle temperament to their adorable appearance, the Basset Hound has a lot to offer. 

Let's explore some of the key benefits of having a Basset Hound as a companion.

1. Gentle and Friendly Nature: 

Basset Hounds are renowned for their gentle and friendly nature. They are known to be affectionate, patient, and great with children, making them an ideal choice for families. Their calm demeanour and patient attitude mean they can easily adapt to various household dynamics, making them an excellent addition to any home.

2. Low Energy Level: 

If you're looking for a dog that doesn't require intense exercise or long walks, the Basset Hound is a perfect fit. While they do enjoy a daily stroll, their low energy level makes them content with shorter walks and indoor playtime. This characteristic makes them an excellent choice for individuals or families with a less active lifestyle.

3. Easy to Groom: 

Basset Hounds have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. Regular brushing to remove loose hair and occasional baths are usually sufficient to keep their coat healthy and shiny. This low-maintenance grooming routine is a bonus for those who prefer a dog that doesn't require extensive grooming sessions.

4. Great Companions: 

Basset Hounds are known to be loyal and devoted companions. They thrive on human interaction and love being part of the family. Their friendly and social nature ensures that they bond well with their owners, providing a constant source of love and companionship. Whether you're looking for a cuddle buddy or a walking partner, the Basset Hound will always be by your side.

5. Excellent Watchdogs: 

Despite their friendly and easygoing nature, Basset Hounds possess a keen sense of hearing and will alert you to any potential intruders or unusual noises. While they may not be as intimidating as some larger breeds, their deep, distinctive bark can serve as an effective deterrent and make you feel more secure in your home.

The Basset Hound offers a multitude of benefits that make them an exceptional choice for dog lovers. Their gentle and friendly nature, low energy level, easy grooming requirements, loyalty, and watchful nature make them ideal companions for individuals and families alike. 

If you're looking for a loving and devoted furry friend, the Basset Hound is an excellent breed to consider!

Why a Harness is Good for Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are adorable, low-to-the-ground dogs known for their long ears, droopy eyes, and lovable personalities. These dogs have a strong sense of smell and are often led by their noses, making them prone to pulling on their leads. To ensure their safety and comfort during walks, using a harness specifically designed for Basset Hounds is highly recommended. 

Below are the reasons why a harness is good for Basset Hounds.

1. Enhanced Control: 

Basset Hounds have a natural instinct to follow scents, which can make it challenging to control them on regular collars. Unlike collars, harnesses provide better control over your Basset Hound's movements, without the risk of discomfort. The harness distributes the pulling force evenly across their chest and shoulders, preventing any strain on their neck or throat. This safer form of control allows you to guide your Basset Hound more effectively during walks and prevents them from pulling you off balance.

2. Reduced Risk of Injury: 

Due to their elongated bodies and short legs, Basset Hounds are more prone to certain health issues, including intervertebral disc disease and neck injuries. Traditional collars can put unnecessary pressure on their necks, exacerbating these conditions. A harness, on the other hand, supports their body and reduces the strain on their neck and spine. By using a properly fitted harness, you can help minimize the risk of injury for your Basset Hound and ensure their long-term well-being.

3. Comfortable Fit: 

Basset Hound harnesses are specifically designed to accommodate their unique body shape. Their long bodies and deep chests require a harness that is adjustable and provides a snug fit. Additionally, these harnesses often come with padded chest plates to further enhance your dog's comfort. Choosing the right harness for your Basset Hound will guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience for both of you.

4. Better Training Tool: 

Harnesses can also serve as an effective training aid for Bassett Hounds, due to the comfort aspect. When your Bassett Hound is comfortable, they will be in a more stable emotional state, which can make training easier and more successful. A well-designed, and well fitted harness with a ‘Y’ shaped front can be a game changer. Harnesses evenly distribute pressure through a Bassett Hounds body, reducing the risk of injury and discomfort associated with traditional collars and leads. A properly fitted harness can provide a sense of security. 

Using a harness specifically designed for Basset Hounds offers numerous benefits. It provides enhanced control, reduces the risk of injury, ensures a comfortable fit, and serves as an effective training tool. 

When selecting a harness, make sure to choose one that is suitably designed for Basset Hounds to ensure the best fit and functionality. Make sure to consider their size, weight and pulling strength to ensure the perfect fit. Measure your Basset Hound’s girth (around the widest part of their chest) and refer to the sizing calculator on our website, https://perfect-fit-dog-harness.com/PFSizing/, to find the most suitable size.

Investing in a quality harness will undoubtedly enhance your Basset Hound's walking experience and contribute to their overall happiness and well-being!

Why a PerfectFit Harness is the best choice

The PerfectFit Harness has a modular design to fit any dog type including a Basset Hound. Our harness has a large range of sizes and fits to choose from, a massive benefit of our harness is that it is comfy and calming for your dog ensuring that both you and your dog are content on your walks. You can purchase our harness in 3 sections, so you can purchase the exact size for each part of the chest area, providing your dog with the perfect fit! We know how worrying it can be when your dog is pulling on their lead, causing their harness or collar to pull on their neck, however, our harness is designed with a Y-shaped front to avoid the soft tissues of the throat and neck. This will reduce the risk of any injury caused by the pulling. Our harness isn't just safer, it is also stylish. We offer a large range of colours and as you can remove and replace each piece you can have multiple different harness colors! We are the perfect fit for you!