Heat & humidity

[ojellod]

Hi! My two bassets, aged 7, love to go on walks, but when it's hot, or humid, it seems like I'm usually walking them (i.e. Pulling them along behind be). We walk 3 times a day, an average of 25-35 minutes each. I've never had bassets before, and we've only had them about 6 months. (we got them from a shelter) How do they generally feel about the heat and humidity? Should I not be walking them too far? They sure do take it easy once we get home!! Thanks for your help.

[Southern Bassets]

Hi Ojellod,
And welcome to the board if I haven't said that already.

It really depends on the bassets age as to how far is too far?
If you have older Bassets then a 30 minute walk is really a long way for a hound even on a good cool day. If you have a pup then that's about all you'll even get out of a puppy or basset under the age of 2.

We have festivals in town that I love bringing the hounds too. Very crowded and plenty of walking. The day starts out great but it's no time before they start letting me know it's time for a break. We take PLENTY of shade breaks during our time at the festivals! I've even considered putting them in a wagon since Bassets really are not that great at keeping up for any length of time?

Another thing I've noticed is living down here in the south as I do, when the weather starts to cool down all the hounds really spring to life! They chase each other, roll around in the grass, really just enjoy themselves all day! In the hotter months they're very much more laid back.

In short...
They're not fond of heat or long walks without tons of breaks.
But they aim to please so if you bring them out they're going to do their best to make you happy.

If you ever have any questions being a new mommy then please make sure you let us know. We're always happy to swap information with eachother!!

[ojellod]

Thanks for the info. One thing I didn't mention in my first post, is that we usually walk around our lake (it takes about an hour), or at least near the lake. When we go down to the water, they love to walk in and stand up to their bellys!! I think it cools them off. They are not overweight at all, but just the other day about 40 min. in, the female just sort of lay down on the grass!! So I'll bring water if you think that'll help, or at least stop at the water for a soak when it's very hot!!! And let them lie in the shade! They really are quite funny!!

[fishnhotwater]

General would go on forever if I let him. He'll be 2 in November. Our walk is only 20 minutes usually and he's always trying to avoid going back to the house. First thing he does when we get home is head for the water dish and then the couch!