Is A Bloodhound A Good Match For you
Bloodhounds make wonderful family companions.
Known for their comical disposition and strong pack nature, Bloodhounds bond strongly with their family pack.
Bloodhounds are noted for enjoying the companionship of other dogs and generally do best in a home where they have plenty of time with their family members, furry and non-furry alike.
Bloodhounds are a large dog, often weighing between 80 – 110 pounds. This should be taken into account when considering the breed, as their size will contribute to their cost, both in feeding and in veterinary expenses.
Bloodhounds require a leader in their family; otherwise they may take on this role. They are a very sensitive breed, therefore require a firm, but kind leadership to enable them to blossom into perfect family members.
Young Bloodhounds mature slowly, therefore will require a patient owner, one willing and able to offer adequate exercise, training and supervision through to young adulthood. Bloodhounds are often portrayed as the lazy, sleepy dog on the front porch, but this is not the case until at least mid-life of the Bloodhound. Middle to senior aged Bloodhounds make wonderful additions to busier families that have less time for supervision and exercise requirements.
Bloodhounds have the strongest scenting ability of all dogs, therefore, they cannot be trusted off leash. Bloodhounds require a securely fenced yard or a dedicated owner able to offer all outings on leash, with supervision. Invisible fencing or tie outs are not suitable alternatives for the Bloodhound. Bloodhounds will be lured away on a scent, but rarely make it back home.
Bloodhounds require minimal grooming of their short coat, but they do shed year round. Weekly brushing will help to minimize this. Regular maintenance of their long, heavy ears is a must, otherwise infection can take hold.
Bloodhounds do drool and generally are not a good choice for those meticulous housekeepers or those wanting a lower maintenance dog. Some drool more than others, but most will drool during times of excitement and around food.
All dog breeds have certain medical conditions that are more prevalent in their breed than other breeds. The Bloodhound is no exception. Anyone considering a Bloodhound should educate themselves on the medical conditions more commonly found in the Bloodhound. Most notably in the Bloodhound is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), more commonly refered to as “Bloat and Torsion”. Details on Bloat and Torsion can be found at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloat
Bloat and Torsion is not an inexpensive occurrence, generally costing between $1500 - $4000 depending on your location and the time bloat and torsion may occur (regular veterinarian’s hours vs. emergency clinic hours). Many Bloodhounds will never experience Bloat and Torsion, but all Bloodhound owners should be prepared for this unfortunate event.