Ah, yes, the Basset Hound – a breed known for its distinctive look with droopy ears and soulful eyes. You can’t help but love them. But what you may not have known about these charmingly droopy dogs is that they are originally from France, and they were bred for hunting small game, particularly rabbits! And though they may not be swift runners, their exceptional sense of smell, only second to the Bloodhound, makes them excellent trackers. Just one more fun fact about our beloved Basset friends!
But that’s enough about their hunting history, let’s dive into something that plagues every Basset owner’s mind. What food does a Basset Hound love? And even more so, what food is healthy for them? If you own a Basset or plan on getting one, rest assured, this article is going to be a one-stop resource.
Basset Hounds have a reputation for being a little “foodie”. They would almost eat anything that lands in their bowl, and yes, that includes some stuff that shouldn’t! So, let’s explore this gastro-adventure together.
FEED THEM LEAN PROTEINS
Bassets, like their many canine friends, love meat. But here’s the catch – it should be lean. Chicken, turkey, fish, and lean cuts of beef are great protein sources for this breed.
GIVE DOSES OF HEALTHY GRAINS
Bassets also love healthy grains such as, brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. They provide much needed carbohydrates and fiber, which aid in digestion and keep your hound hearty & energetic.
THEY LOVE THEIR VEGGIES
Stock up on veggies like carrots, pumpkin, spinach, and peas. Bassets love them, plus they’re chock-full of vitamins & antioxidants that boost overall health. But remember, never feed them onions, garlic or raw potatoes – those can be toxic for dogs.
FRUIT GARNISH, ANYONE?
Bassets enjoy fruits such as apples, bananas, and blueberries. They provide a sweet treat and are packed with essential vitamins. However, avoid fruits like grapes and cherries, which can be harmful.
DAIRY IN MODERATION
Some Bassets tolerate and enjoy dairy products like cheese and yogurt, but others may not. Use these treats sparingly and keep an eye for signs of intolerance like an upset stomach.
A FALL FOR FISH?
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are excellent for a Basset’s skin and coat health. Therefore, oily fish like salmon and tuna can be included in their diet, given that it’s well-cooked.
Now, let’s dive into some handy tips because feeding a Basset isn’t just about offering a smorgasbord of food options. They need balanced diets that cater to their specific needs.
PICK KIBBLES WISELY
Not all dog food is created equal. Choose quality kibble that’s high in protein, has a moderate amount of fats, and is low in carbohydrates. Look for natural ingredients and avoid artificial additives.
TREATS AREN’T MEALS
Bassets love their treats, but remember, treats are not substitutes for meals. They should make up only 10% of their daily calorie intake.
WATCH OUT FOR OVERFEEDING
Basset Hounds are prone to obesity. Their adorable puppy eyes can easily convince you for one more treat, but resist the temptation. Stick to set meal times and moderate portion sizes.
BAKE YOUR OWN DOG TREATS
You can always control what goes into your beloved pet’s mouth by making homemade stuff. Bake dog treats using healthy ingredients like carrots, pumpkins, oatmeal, and lean meats.
FOOD IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR EXERCISE
Basset Hounds are prone to laziness; they love their food and their sleep equally. But a balanced diet should go hand-in-hand with regular exercise to keep these pups healthy.
No two Basset Hounds are the same. Each has a unique personality, and their food preferences may vary. The key is to experiment within the realm of healthy options and observe what works best for your furry friend. After all, a happy Basset is a well-fed Basset! Remember, always consult with your vet before making any drastic changes to their diet. Here’s to your gastronomic adventures with your beloved Basset Hound!
