Activities For Basset Retrievers
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Introduction
With a background consisting of a Basset Hound and a Golden Retriever, Basset Retrievers are bound to be smart, playful and friendly pups. Sounds like this breed would make the perfect pet! However, when you mix a Golden Retrievers enthusiasm for play along with a Basset Hounds tendency to be a little stubborn or lazy, you may get a dog that really needs activities set up for them in order to keep them occupied and happy. These games are the place to start!
Hunting
Both Basset Hounds and Golden Retrievers were used as hunting dogs in the past and because of that, you may have noticed that your Basset Retriever has a strong prey instinct. While you may need to watch out for smaller dogs at the dog park (you don’t want your dog chasing them away!), you can certainly use your dog's desire to hunt to set up some fun activities. When you entertain their natural need, such as hunting, they will be happier, well balanced and an all around better member of your family. Sounds like it’s time to grab your pup and go on a “hunt”!
Scent Games
Basset Hounds have an incredible sense of smell. In fact, their noses are considered to be one of the best in the dog world, second only to Bloodhounds. This means that your Basset Retriever likely inherited this trait and is equipped with a powerful sniffer! All of these short scent related activities are perfect for your Basset Retriever to not only get up (some dogs of this breed can be a little lazy!) but use their nose in an exciting and fun way. There are also lots of scent games that you can play inside with your dog which makes them perfect rainy day activities.
Dock Diving
If you believe that your Basset Retriever has a lot of the Golden Retriever breed in them, then they are likely to be a pup who loves a good swim paired with a lot of running. If this sounds like your dog, then dock diving is a game that is perfectly suited for them! If you find that your Golden Basset really enjoys dock diving or has a natural knack for it, you can even consider entering your pup in a dock diving competition. From casual fun in the water to a competitive sport, dock diving is perfect for just about any Basset Retriever no matter what their energy level!
More Fun Ideas...
Hiking
Basset Retrievers are a breed that loves a good walk. Why not take that everyday walk into the woods or up a nice trail? Hiking with your dog is a great way to give them some exercise and be outside in a new environment.
Hunting Clubs
If you feel as though your dog is very into hunting and tracking, look for a local dog club where you can bring your pup on real, staged hunts with a dog pack. This is a great way to let your dog use their natural instincts and will surely tire them out!
Conclusion
As you can see, there is so much you can do to keep your Basset Retriever entertained. You will never need to appease that lazy attitude of your dog (and you don’t want your dog to be lazy as it can lead to obesity!) but you can keep them busy with fun activities every day! From swimming to sniffing out treasures to hunting pretend prey, you and your Basset Retriever are guaranteed to have fun no matter what you choose to do together.