Our family has just adopted a Basset Hound from a newspaper ad. He cowers when anyone goes near him. Is that natural for that breed or has he been abused?
2006-07-23 02:27:54 · 7 answers · asked by ispoilmyself 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Some dogs are inherently submissive or shy due to their breeding. Some are submissive because they have been kicked around and abused. I've worked with several basset hounds over the years and I have never seen one with this "shyness" trait, although I have seen it in other hound breeds. He may feel just feel a bit insecure in his new surroundings and needs alot a love and reassurance to help him adjust.
2006-07-23 02:37:22 · answer #1 · answered by Free Bird 4 · 11⤊ 4⤋
I had a Bassett for 12 years...Myrtle was an absolute doll. We got her from an animal shelter, and at first she was very timid, and would coward. We loved her, and she grew to trust us so much. She was still alittle nervous around strangers. I would always encourage people that wanted to pet her, to get down on her level, and extend their hand out...she always warmed up eventually. I have no doubt Myrtle was abused...she only weighed 20 lbs. when we got her. Bassetts are great dogs, and will not only become your dog, but part of your family as well. Good Luck...I'm sure you will love/enjoy her.
2006-07-23 03:43:28 · answer #2 · answered by Annette C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Basset hounds are normally friendly "unflapable" dogs this dog was probably mistreated
2006-07-23 04:39:26 · answer #3 · answered by petmum 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is not natural and the dog was probably yelled at or hit. Your dog needs socialization by friendly situations. and needs to gain confidence. go to group obedience classes where the dog will be around other dogs and strangers
2006-07-23 03:04:24 · answer #4 · answered by aussie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
he is scared of you. which means someone abused or hit him or he hasn't had much human contact. Give him time and he will adjust to the family and be a totally different dog
2006-07-23 02:48:33 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like abuse to me, however some dogs are very timid. Give him some time and love.
2006-07-23 02:32:37 · answer #6 · answered by skinutt_99 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
he's probably been abused cuz hounds are normally very courageous....he might have been in a puppy mill...poor dog......
2006-07-23 02:32:40 · answer #7 · answered by mkifle23 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋