Basset Hound Food and Health
Veterinarians recommend feeding Basset Hounds premium quality dog food, with the main ingredient being real animal protein. The amount of food a Basset should eat will depend on his age, size, and activity level. For an average-sized healthy adult who is moderately active, between 1.5 and 2.5 cups of either dry kibble or canned food daily is suggested. Puppies and highly active dogs, such as those who are used for hunting in the woods of Virginia and North Carolina, should be fed more; however, older Bassets who live a more sedentary lifestyle should be fed less.
Whatever your Bassets age or lifestyle, it’s important to note that these dogs like to eat, and as such, they can become obese. In order to ensure your dog remains in good health, measure out his food, and feed him twice daily (divide the recommended amount mentioned above by two) instead of leaving food out all day.
There are several commercial dog foods that are ideal for Bassets, including formulas for puppies, such as Buffalo Wilderness Mountain Grain Free dog food, and formulas for adult dogs like CANIDAE’s Grain Free Adult Dog Food.
Basset Hounds are genetically predisposed to certain health conditions, including cherry eye, hip dysplasia, ear infections, thrombopathia, glaucoma, and allergies, to name a few. Bassets that live active lifestyles, like those who hunt, are also more apt to sustain injuries. As such, investing in pet insurance for your Basset is a wise idea, as it can save you from having to pay high veterinarian bills out of your own pocket. There are several reputable companies that offer pet insurance at affordable rates, including Nationwide, Geico, and Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. The ASPCA also offers pet coverage.