The Blood-Hound
Should You Buy a Bloodhound?
The Bloodhound is commonly portrayed in movies tracking convicts. Although
the baying sound the dogs make when they find a scent may be chilling to a
convict, it can also be comforting. Bloodhounds are also used to track
people who are lost or disoriented.
The Bloodhound is a member of the AKC's Hound Group. It stands twenty
three to twenty seven inches tall and weighs approximately eighty to one
hundred and ten pounds. These dogs are known for their long droopy ears
and their gloomy looking wrinkled faces. Their coat is short and coarse,
and comes in black and tan, red or liver and tan colors.
Although many criminals fear this breed, the breed is actually to gentle
to be used as a guard or attack dog. While a Bloodhound will track a man
they do not hunt people to harm them. Bloodhounds must work with handlers
because they will rush up to a hardened criminal and greet him like a long
lost friend.
The gentle nature of this breed makes it a wonderful choice for families;
however they do have some quirks. This breed does not do well with
obedience training because it wants to make its own decisions. The very
traits that enable this breed to track make it less likely to obey and
more stubborn than many other breeds. Training a Bloodhound to obey
involves a great deal of patience and understanding. Bloodhounds are
easily scarred so they should never be yelled at or treated roughly. Those
who are unable to teach the dog to obey should seek the help of an
obedience school that uses positive reinforcement methods.
This breed loves to spend time with its family but it is not meant for
city life. They require a lot of exercise, so a house with a large fenced
yard is ideal. The dog may also require long walks to burn off excess
energy.
Bloodhounds have a healthy appetite and can make a large difference in the
grocery budget. These dogs can suffer from stomach problems and are prone
to hip dysplasia so it may be advisable to consult a veterinarian to talk
about food choices for a Bloodhound.
Bloodhounds do not require frequent brushing, however, it is important to
note that the creases on their face must be cleaned regularly to prevent
odors and bacteria growth. This breed is also prone to ear infections
because air does not circulate well into their ears.
Bloodhounds have been around since long before the Dark Ages and therefore
do suffer from common health problems. Hip dysplasia and stomach problems
are most prevalent but they can also suffer from eyelid problems. Another
problem is that the large jowls of this breed cause drool and slobber
problems.
Bloodhounds have withstood the test of time and have a wonderful
personality. They make an excellent choice for a pet.
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