How to Train Your Basset Hound Dog to Track Deer

A hunter takes aim and shoots. It's a hit, but not a solid one--the deer runs off into the underbrush, wounded. Not only does the hunter not want to lose his quarry, he does not want a wounded animal suffering. Fortunately, he has his trusty Basset hound, who can easily follow the blood trail left by the wounded deer. The deer is located and dispatched a few hundred yards away in dense brush, not so far away, but in the heavy brush, the hunter would have had a difficult time finding it if not for his hunting companion.  

Basset hounds, short-legged hunting dogs developed in England, are amazing scenting hounds, able to follow a scent trail accurately and through difficult terrain. They are also quite the characters, with their easy-going style, droopy ears, sad eyes and mournful vocals. Training your Basset hound to track deer to aid you in locating quarry or following a wounded animal can be very useful. Basset hounds are adept trackers, but getting them to focus as directed can be a challenge. Basic training and practice will hone a great hunting hound.

Basset Hounds, although very skilled, can be stubborn, inconsistent, and easily distracted. Understanding your dog and working within his limitations will reduce frustration and keep activities enjoyable. Remember, hunting is a sport; it should be enjoyable for you and your dog, so be patient. Basset hounds do not need much training to become interested in and follow a scent, the challenge is getting them to focus on the correct scent. In fact, the keener your dog's sense of smell and motivation, the harder he may be to train, as he is so easily distracted by the input to his nose! Several strategies that involve practicing following fresh scent trails and working with experienced Basset hounds are helpful for achieving this. Your Basset hound will need to learn to distinguish fresh scents from old ones and follow a scent you have directed him to follow, such as that of a wounded animal.

Basset hounds used for hunting deer should have good obedience and recall off-leash, and be used to other dogs, game, being transported to hunting sites, and the sights and sounds of the hunt, including firearms. Be sure you understand hunting rules and regulations in your area as hunting with dogs is not permitted in all areas at all times  Most areas have dog or even specific Basset hound hunting clubs that can help you by providing experienced hunters and hounds that can provide support and advice. For training to track deer, deer scent available commercially or deer blood, hide, and scent, available from a previously killed deer or even a roadkill can be used to introduce scent. Most Bassets will work for the sheer joy of it, but treats to reinforce correct behavior are always welcome by food-motivated Basset hounds.