Woebgon Basset Hounds
Purchasing a Basset Hound Puppy
The purchase of a new puppy is one of the bigger decisions a family makes
and one that should not be made on impulse or without much thought and
knowledge. Please remember that you are purchasing a living animal that will
be part of your family for its entire life. Like any other living part of your family, a
dog will need your support through the bad times as well as the good times.
Please do your research. There are many sites on our Contact/Links page
that you can consult as well as books on Basset Hounds. Ask yourself, “Am I
sure this is the breed for my family and me?” Some other things that you can
do before you select a breed are go to dog show to see the dogs there and
meet their breeders and/or owners, visit a breeder's kennel to see how they are
at home and check out AKC's web page on buying a puppy.
Breeders and pet stores who are just trying to sell you a dog will tell you
about all the positives of a basset from being a super breed around children to
the ease of grooming, but there are other things you should be aware of in
addition.
· Are you aware that there is only one standard for determining what a basset
hound should be. The only recognized standard is found at: AKC Basset Hound
Stanndard Please check it out before you decide to purchase a basset hound.
· Are you aware that AKC or the “papers” from any other registry only mean that
the puppy’s sire and dam were registered that that registry. Please understand that the
“papers” have nothing to do with quality or conformation to the AKC Standard for basset
hounds. Quality of conformation can only be determined in the AKC show ring.
· Are you aware that a basset hound is NOT a small dog? It's a big dog on short
legs. The average male may weigh anywhere from 55-65 pounds, sometimes more.
The bitches are usually 45-55 pounds or so. They all think they're lap dogs. If you don't
understand that at the outset, they will make sure to teach you.
· Are you aware that many bassets have a hound odor? They are clean dogs and
"easy keepers" in terms of grooming, but the oils in their skin may give them a
distinctive odor. Some have more odor than others, and yes, it can get into your carpet.
If that is potentially offensive to you, then this is not your breed.
· Are you aware that they don't usually come housebroken -- you have to train
them? Usually males are more difficult to train than females.
· Are you aware that bassets shed? It's short hair, granted, but it still comes out
when spring arrives. In some climates basset hounds shed much of the year. Regular
brushing minimizes the problem, but don't expect to have a shed-free hound.
· Are you aware that they drool and can flip slobber on your kitchen cabinets from
a great distance? Anything that is six feet tall or under is subject to flying slime. Some
basset hounds can fling their slime even higher.
· Are you aware that they want to be close to you and that when they put their
massive paws (as required in the AKC Standard for a well bred basset hound) on your
foot to get close or when they wag their tails against your leg it may not be comfortable?
· Are you aware that these dogs are scent hounds? That means they want their
noses in everything. This can include getting your dirty socks or shorts from your laundry
hamper and parading them around your living room in front of guests you're trying to
impress. Since they are scent hounds they will follow their noses and can get away from
you if you don’t have them on a leash or in a fully fenced yard.
· Are you aware that by placing their paws at the edge of your kitchen counter,
laying their head on the counter and extending their tongue, they can reach to the back
and consume the gourmet dessert you just made for your dinner party?
· Are you aware that bassets are not full time couch potatoes? Like all breeds,
they need their exercise. Remember that these dogs were bred for hunting, and while
they're not fast on their feet, they are persistent hunters and should be able to go for
many miles before tiring. Actually many basset hound owners are surprised at how fast
their bassets can run if given the chance.
· Are you aware that like nearly every breed of dog, there are genetic diseases
and disorders found in the basset hound? George Padgett, D.V.M., well-respected
canine geneticist lists 67 of them in his new book, Control of Canine Genetic Disease.
Some of these are seen rarely, others are seen more frequently. The more common
problems include hypothyroidism, intervertebral disk disease, glaucoma, bloat, von
Willebrand's disease, and hereditary thrombopathia.
If you can’t find a reputable breeder in your area you can go to the Basset
Hound Club of America's Breeder Directory at http://basset-bhca.org/. A local
breed club, if there is one in your area, is a good source as well. Contact the
club's secretary for a referral. If you live in Southern California we will refer you
to a reputable breeder who may have puppies or you can go to http://www.
bhcsc.com/ for a list of breeders and to contact our club’s secretary.
What can I expect of a breeder? First you should understand that all reputable
breeders subscribe to the expectations of the AKC at a minimum.
· You should expect that the breeder is a member of a recognized local Basset
Hound Club and/or the Basset Hound Club of America.
· You should expect that the litter you may look at was bred to produce dogs
suitable for competition in some AKC event, and that dogs not kept by the breeder for
that purpose will be placed as pets.
· You should expect that the pedigree for the puppies in the litter includes AKC
Champions, preferably both the sire or dam. If not at least the sire or dam should be an
AKC Champion. The breeder should be able to explain why one or both are not AKC
Champions. If the breeder is involved in field trials rather than conformation then check
the dog’s pedigree in that area.
· You should expect that the litter should not have been produced for the sole
purpose of making money. If it was run the other way!
· You should expect the breeder to show you the dam and sire if they own both, or
at least the dam. Bitches are frequently bred to studs not owned by the breeder in order
to improve the line.
· You should expect that the bitch has not been bred before her second season
and that she has not been bred on every season.
· You should expect that the kennel facilities are kept in a clean and sanitary
manner and that the puppies are well cared for.
· You should feel free to discuss the breeder's plan for improving the breed and for
controlling genetic diseases. Do not hesitate to ask the breeder what testing he/she has
done.
· You should expect a written health guarantee that specifies what the breeder will
do should a problem be found. Will he/she agree to replace the puppy, to refund all or a
portion of the purchase price, to compensate you for veterinary bills? Typically the day-
to-day care including veterinary expenses will be your responsibility. Avoid a problem
by making sure there is mutual understanding in the purchase contract.
· You should expect that the breeder and his/her veterinarian have established an
immunization schedule for the litter and that the breeder can provide for you a list of the
immunizations and dates given, and you should expect a complete medical history
including any tests performed, e.g., heartworm.
· You should expect a written contract and a pedigree of the puppy you are buying.
At a minimum the contract should include the date of sale, pup's date of birth, full
registered names of the sire and dam, their registration numbers, litter registration
number, breed, and color. The contract should be signed by both the breeder(s) and
yourself, and you should receive one of the copies.
· You should expect the breeder to provide information on the care and feeding of
the pup.
· You should expect an AKC "blue slip" or "registration" of the animal or a
specified time by which that will be provided.
· You should expect that in most cases the puppy will come to you with a "limited
registration" meaning the animal is guaranteed to be a purebred basset and the
offspring of two registered basset hounds, but that if it is bred, its offspring cannot be
registered with AKC. Remember, if the breeder felt the puppy was worthy of breeding
he/she wouldn't be selling him to you as a pet.
· You should expect the breeder to require you to spay or neuter the puppy and
he/she may not release registration papers until you provide proof that the surgery has
been performed.
· You should expect the breeder to give you a period of time in which you can
assure that the pup "fits" your family, and during which you can return the pup if it does
not.
· You should expect the breeder to answer questions and give advice for the life of
the pup.
What will the breeder expect of me? Responsible reputable breeders,
especially in Southern California, typically have more buyers than puppies.
They are most interested in placing puppies in homes where they will be well
cared for and will become full members of the family; so do not expect a
breeder to sell to you just because you have offered to buy.
· The breeder will want assurance that you have a fenced yard. As a scent hound,
a basset may take off on a scent and not return.
· The breeder, for the same reason, will want assurance that when you are out of
your yard or other completely fenced in area that you will keep your basset hound on a
leash.
· The breeder will expect you to have clean, dry housing, or a specific place in the
house for the dog to sleep.
· A breeder may request a home visit before making a decision about you.
· The breeder will want assurance that when traveling with your dog he will be safe
in the vehicle.
· The breeder may ask you to bring all family members, including all your children,
when you come to see the puppies.
· The breeder may not want to sell you a puppy as a gift for someone else.
· The breeder will expect you to inform them if there are any problems found
during the dog's life that are genetic in origin and that are not apparent as a puppy.
· The breeder may require you to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian
within the first few days to assure you that he is in good health, and to make sure you
are established with a veterinarian so that if there is a medical problem you have
someone you can count on.
There are no dumb questions. Do not hesitate to ask the breeder any question
you might have. There is no such thing as a dumb question. What you want to
ask has probably been heard many times before.
· If I have to return the puppy can I expect a full refund?
· Why am I getting a limited registration?
· Why do I have to spay or neuter my puppy?
· What should I feed him and how often?
· How do I housebreak him?
· When will he lose his puppy teeth?
· How do you trim nails?
· Why hasn't he had his rabies shot yet?
· What can I expect to pay for a pet quality puppy? There is no set price for a pet
quality puppy. The price is usually dependent on veterinary costs in the breeder's area.
Typically reputable breeders lose money on each litter they breed. A recent AKC
estimate suggested a loss of $1700 or so on every litter was being seen. Remember
that the breeder has many costs which may include pre-breeding testing, stud fees,
shipping, costs of artificial insemination and collection, veterinary checkups, Caesarean
sections and/or other assistance in whelp, puppy examinations and immunizations,
puppy food, etc. These are in addition to all the expenses that a breeder has for
showing a dog in AKC competition and their normal vet bills.
Ensuring Success: Selecting the right puppy and the right breeder can be the
first step in creating a happy situation for you and your family, and for your new
family member.
and one that should not be made on impulse or without much thought and
knowledge. Please remember that you are purchasing a living animal that will
be part of your family for its entire life. Like any other living part of your family, a
dog will need your support through the bad times as well as the good times.
Please do your research. There are many sites on our Contact/Links page
that you can consult as well as books on Basset Hounds. Ask yourself, “Am I
sure this is the breed for my family and me?” Some other things that you can
do before you select a breed are go to dog show to see the dogs there and
meet their breeders and/or owners, visit a breeder's kennel to see how they are
at home and check out AKC's web page on buying a puppy.
Breeders and pet stores who are just trying to sell you a dog will tell you
about all the positives of a basset from being a super breed around children to
the ease of grooming, but there are other things you should be aware of in
addition.
· Are you aware that there is only one standard for determining what a basset
hound should be. The only recognized standard is found at: AKC Basset Hound
Stanndard Please check it out before you decide to purchase a basset hound.
· Are you aware that AKC or the “papers” from any other registry only mean that
the puppy’s sire and dam were registered that that registry. Please understand that the
“papers” have nothing to do with quality or conformation to the AKC Standard for basset
hounds. Quality of conformation can only be determined in the AKC show ring.
· Are you aware that a basset hound is NOT a small dog? It's a big dog on short
legs. The average male may weigh anywhere from 55-65 pounds, sometimes more.
The bitches are usually 45-55 pounds or so. They all think they're lap dogs. If you don't
understand that at the outset, they will make sure to teach you.
· Are you aware that many bassets have a hound odor? They are clean dogs and
"easy keepers" in terms of grooming, but the oils in their skin may give them a
distinctive odor. Some have more odor than others, and yes, it can get into your carpet.
If that is potentially offensive to you, then this is not your breed.
· Are you aware that they don't usually come housebroken -- you have to train
them? Usually males are more difficult to train than females.
· Are you aware that bassets shed? It's short hair, granted, but it still comes out
when spring arrives. In some climates basset hounds shed much of the year. Regular
brushing minimizes the problem, but don't expect to have a shed-free hound.
· Are you aware that they drool and can flip slobber on your kitchen cabinets from
a great distance? Anything that is six feet tall or under is subject to flying slime. Some
basset hounds can fling their slime even higher.
· Are you aware that they want to be close to you and that when they put their
massive paws (as required in the AKC Standard for a well bred basset hound) on your
foot to get close or when they wag their tails against your leg it may not be comfortable?
· Are you aware that these dogs are scent hounds? That means they want their
noses in everything. This can include getting your dirty socks or shorts from your laundry
hamper and parading them around your living room in front of guests you're trying to
impress. Since they are scent hounds they will follow their noses and can get away from
you if you don’t have them on a leash or in a fully fenced yard.
· Are you aware that by placing their paws at the edge of your kitchen counter,
laying their head on the counter and extending their tongue, they can reach to the back
and consume the gourmet dessert you just made for your dinner party?
· Are you aware that bassets are not full time couch potatoes? Like all breeds,
they need their exercise. Remember that these dogs were bred for hunting, and while
they're not fast on their feet, they are persistent hunters and should be able to go for
many miles before tiring. Actually many basset hound owners are surprised at how fast
their bassets can run if given the chance.
· Are you aware that like nearly every breed of dog, there are genetic diseases
and disorders found in the basset hound? George Padgett, D.V.M., well-respected
canine geneticist lists 67 of them in his new book, Control of Canine Genetic Disease.
Some of these are seen rarely, others are seen more frequently. The more common
problems include hypothyroidism, intervertebral disk disease, glaucoma, bloat, von
Willebrand's disease, and hereditary thrombopathia.
If you can’t find a reputable breeder in your area you can go to the Basset
Hound Club of America's Breeder Directory at http://basset-bhca.org/. A local
breed club, if there is one in your area, is a good source as well. Contact the
club's secretary for a referral. If you live in Southern California we will refer you
to a reputable breeder who may have puppies or you can go to http://www.
bhcsc.com/ for a list of breeders and to contact our club’s secretary.
What can I expect of a breeder? First you should understand that all reputable
breeders subscribe to the expectations of the AKC at a minimum.
· You should expect that the breeder is a member of a recognized local Basset
Hound Club and/or the Basset Hound Club of America.
· You should expect that the litter you may look at was bred to produce dogs
suitable for competition in some AKC event, and that dogs not kept by the breeder for
that purpose will be placed as pets.
· You should expect that the pedigree for the puppies in the litter includes AKC
Champions, preferably both the sire or dam. If not at least the sire or dam should be an
AKC Champion. The breeder should be able to explain why one or both are not AKC
Champions. If the breeder is involved in field trials rather than conformation then check
the dog’s pedigree in that area.
· You should expect that the litter should not have been produced for the sole
purpose of making money. If it was run the other way!
· You should expect the breeder to show you the dam and sire if they own both, or
at least the dam. Bitches are frequently bred to studs not owned by the breeder in order
to improve the line.
· You should expect that the bitch has not been bred before her second season
and that she has not been bred on every season.
· You should expect that the kennel facilities are kept in a clean and sanitary
manner and that the puppies are well cared for.
· You should feel free to discuss the breeder's plan for improving the breed and for
controlling genetic diseases. Do not hesitate to ask the breeder what testing he/she has
done.
· You should expect a written health guarantee that specifies what the breeder will
do should a problem be found. Will he/she agree to replace the puppy, to refund all or a
portion of the purchase price, to compensate you for veterinary bills? Typically the day-
to-day care including veterinary expenses will be your responsibility. Avoid a problem
by making sure there is mutual understanding in the purchase contract.
· You should expect that the breeder and his/her veterinarian have established an
immunization schedule for the litter and that the breeder can provide for you a list of the
immunizations and dates given, and you should expect a complete medical history
including any tests performed, e.g., heartworm.
· You should expect a written contract and a pedigree of the puppy you are buying.
At a minimum the contract should include the date of sale, pup's date of birth, full
registered names of the sire and dam, their registration numbers, litter registration
number, breed, and color. The contract should be signed by both the breeder(s) and
yourself, and you should receive one of the copies.
· You should expect the breeder to provide information on the care and feeding of
the pup.
· You should expect an AKC "blue slip" or "registration" of the animal or a
specified time by which that will be provided.
· You should expect that in most cases the puppy will come to you with a "limited
registration" meaning the animal is guaranteed to be a purebred basset and the
offspring of two registered basset hounds, but that if it is bred, its offspring cannot be
registered with AKC. Remember, if the breeder felt the puppy was worthy of breeding
he/she wouldn't be selling him to you as a pet.
· You should expect the breeder to require you to spay or neuter the puppy and
he/she may not release registration papers until you provide proof that the surgery has
been performed.
· You should expect the breeder to give you a period of time in which you can
assure that the pup "fits" your family, and during which you can return the pup if it does
not.
· You should expect the breeder to answer questions and give advice for the life of
the pup.
What will the breeder expect of me? Responsible reputable breeders,
especially in Southern California, typically have more buyers than puppies.
They are most interested in placing puppies in homes where they will be well
cared for and will become full members of the family; so do not expect a
breeder to sell to you just because you have offered to buy.
· The breeder will want assurance that you have a fenced yard. As a scent hound,
a basset may take off on a scent and not return.
· The breeder, for the same reason, will want assurance that when you are out of
your yard or other completely fenced in area that you will keep your basset hound on a
leash.
· The breeder will expect you to have clean, dry housing, or a specific place in the
house for the dog to sleep.
· A breeder may request a home visit before making a decision about you.
· The breeder will want assurance that when traveling with your dog he will be safe
in the vehicle.
· The breeder may ask you to bring all family members, including all your children,
when you come to see the puppies.
· The breeder may not want to sell you a puppy as a gift for someone else.
· The breeder will expect you to inform them if there are any problems found
during the dog's life that are genetic in origin and that are not apparent as a puppy.
· The breeder may require you to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian
within the first few days to assure you that he is in good health, and to make sure you
are established with a veterinarian so that if there is a medical problem you have
someone you can count on.
There are no dumb questions. Do not hesitate to ask the breeder any question
you might have. There is no such thing as a dumb question. What you want to
ask has probably been heard many times before.
· If I have to return the puppy can I expect a full refund?
· Why am I getting a limited registration?
· Why do I have to spay or neuter my puppy?
· What should I feed him and how often?
· How do I housebreak him?
· When will he lose his puppy teeth?
· How do you trim nails?
· Why hasn't he had his rabies shot yet?
· What can I expect to pay for a pet quality puppy? There is no set price for a pet
quality puppy. The price is usually dependent on veterinary costs in the breeder's area.
Typically reputable breeders lose money on each litter they breed. A recent AKC
estimate suggested a loss of $1700 or so on every litter was being seen. Remember
that the breeder has many costs which may include pre-breeding testing, stud fees,
shipping, costs of artificial insemination and collection, veterinary checkups, Caesarean
sections and/or other assistance in whelp, puppy examinations and immunizations,
puppy food, etc. These are in addition to all the expenses that a breeder has for
showing a dog in AKC competition and their normal vet bills.
Ensuring Success: Selecting the right puppy and the right breeder can be the
first step in creating a happy situation for you and your family, and for your new
family member.
