Can Basset Hounds Be Left Alone? The Complete Guide for Owners

As a basset hound owner myself, I’ve often wondered about leaving my droopy-eared friend at home while I’m at work. If you’re considering getting a basset hound or already have one, you’re probably asking: can basset hounds be left alone? Let me answer this right away.

Basset hounds shouldn’t be left alone for more than 3-4 hours at a time. These lovable pups are pack animals who form strong bonds with their humans and can develop separation anxiety when left by themselves for too long.

Understanding Your Basset Hound’s Alone Time Needs

Basset hounds are known for their friendly, laid-back personalities but they’re also incredibly social creatures. These dogs were originally bred to hunt in packs which means they’re naturally inclined to want company – whether that’s you, another dog, or even a cat.

When I first got my basset, Max, I noticed he would get restless after just a few hours alone. This is typical for the breed

Here’s why basset hounds struggle with solitude

• They’re pack animals by nature
• They form deep attachments to their owners
• They thrive on human interaction
• They can get bored easily without stimulation
• Their hunting background makes them social

Signs Your Basset Hound Is Struggling With Being Alone

How do you know if your basset hound is having a hard time when you’re gone? Look for these telltale signs:

1. Destructive behavior – Chewed furniture, torn pillows, or destroyed shoes
2. Excessive barking or howling – Those famous basset hound howls might be cute, but neighbors might disagree!
3. Bathroom accidents – Even well-trained bassets may have accidents when stressed
4. Depression – Lethargy, lack of interest in food or play
5. Excessive drooling – More than the usual basset slobber

My Max started digging at the carpet near the front door whenever I left. That was my first clue he was experiencing separation anxiety.

Do Basset Hounds Have Separation Anxiety?

Yes, basset hounds are prone to separation anxiety. Their loyal, people-loving nature makes them particularly susceptible to this condition.

Separation anxiety in basset hounds isn’t just about them missing you – it’s genuine distress. Their pack mentality means they feel safest and most secure when with their “pack” (that’s you and your family).

Some bassets may develop separation anxiety due to:

• Past experiences of abandonment
• Changes in routine or family structure
• Insufficient training for alone time
• Their naturally clingy temperament

How Long Can You Leave a Basset Hound Alone?

While every dog is different, here’s a general guideline for leaving basset hounds alone:

Remember, these are maximum times! Just because your basset hound can be left alone for 4 hours doesn’t mean they should be left alone that long every day.

My own experience with Max suggests that even adult bassets do best with breaks every 3-4 hours. When I had to work longer shifts, I’d arrange for a dog walker to come by midday.

Tips for Leaving Your Basset Hound Alone

If you need to leave your basset hound alone for a few hours, here are some strategies to make it easier on them:

1. Provide Plenty of Exercise Before You Leave

A tired basset is a happy basset! Though they might seem lazy, basset hounds still need regular exercise. Take your dog for a good walk before you leave to help them burn off energy.

2. Create a Comfortable Space

Make sure your basset has:

• A comfy bed in a quiet area
• Access to fresh water
• Appropriate temperature (bassets don’t tolerate extreme heat or cold well)
• Some of your worn clothing that carries your scent

3. Use Engaging Toys and Puzzles

Keeping your basset’s mind occupied can help prevent boredom. I’ve found that Kong toys filled with frozen peanut butter work wonders for Max. They keep him busy for at least an hour!

Other options include:

• Puzzle feeders
• Treat-dispensing toys
• Durable chew toys

4. Consider a Dog Sitter or Doggy Daycare

For longer absences, hiring help might be necessary. Options include:

• Professional dog walkers
• Pet sitters who can visit midday
• Doggy daycare centers
• Asking a trusted neighbor or family member to check in

5. Practice Gradual Alone Training

Don’t just leave your basset alone for hours right away. Start with short absences and gradually increase the time. This helps them build confidence and reduces anxiety.

Do Basset Hounds Like to Cuddle?

One reason bassets hate being alone is because many of them are total cuddle bugs! While individual personalities vary, most basset hounds enjoy close physical contact with their owners.

My Max is definitely a lap dog (despite weighing 50 pounds!). He thinks nothing of climbing onto the couch and draping himself across my lap for hours of TV watching.

This cuddly nature is both adorable and telling – bassets form strong physical bonds with their humans, which makes separation more difficult for them.

Alternatives to Leaving Your Basset Hound Alone

If your lifestyle requires regular long absences, consider these alternatives:

Get a Second Pet

Many basset hounds do well with a companion. Another dog or even a cat can provide company and reduce loneliness. Just make sure the personalities are compatible!

Work From Home When Possible

With remote work becoming more common, see if you can arrange to work from home at least part-time. Even a few days a week at home can make a big difference for your basset.

Staggered Family Schedules

If you live with family members or roommates, try to stagger your schedules so someone is home more often.

Training Your Basset Hound to Be Alone

While bassets will never love being alone, you can train them to tolerate it better:

1. Start very short – Leave for just 5 minutes at first
2. Don’t make a big deal about departures or arrivals
3. Use a special treat they only get when you leave
4. Create positive associations with your departure cues
5. Gradually increase time alone as they become more comfortable

Remember that basset hounds can be stubborn, so training requires patience and consistency. But they’re also food-motivated, which can make training easier if treats are involved!

When to Seek Help

If your basset hound shows extreme anxiety when left alone, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Signs that warrant intervention include:

• Self-injury from trying to escape
• Destructive behavior that puts the dog at risk
• Excessive drooling, panting, or shaking
• Refusal to eat when alone
• Constant barking/howling the entire time you’re gone

Your veterinarian can recommend behavioral specialists or possibly medication for severe cases of separation anxiety.

To sum up, basset hounds are not the best breed for people who are away from home for long stretches. Their social nature and pack mentality make them happiest when they’re with their human family.

If you work full-time outside the home, you’ll need to make arrangements for your basset – whether that’s midday visits, doggy daycare, or a pet companion. The good news is that with proper training and accommodations, most basset hounds can learn to handle reasonable alone time.

The reward for this extra effort? A loyal, loving companion who will greet you with those soulful eyes and wagging tail every time you walk through the door. For basset lovers like me, that’s more than worth the special considerations these wonderful dogs require.

Do you have a basset hound? How do they handle being alone? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments!

Breeds known to adapt well to spending 8 hours alone include independent and lower-energy dogs like the Basset Hound, Chow Chow, French Bulldog, Greyhound, Lhasa Apso, Shar-Pei, Miniature Schnauzer, and Shiba Inu. However, any dog’s ability to handle alone time depends on their individual personality, age, and needs, not just their breed, and consistent daily exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for all dogs.

Yes, Basset Hounds are known to be prone to separation anxiety, which can manifest as destructive behavior, excessive barking, and panic when left alone. Owners can manage this by using training techniques like crate training, gradual desensitization, ensuring the dog gets enough physical activity, and providing mental stimulation with enrichment toys.

Basset Hound cons include significant health issues like hip dysplasia, bloat, and ear/skin infections, along with a tendency for obesity and a strong prey drive. They are also challenging to train due to stubbornness, can be destructive with digging, and may develop separation anxiety. Owners must deal with constant shedding, a distinctive hound smell, excessive drooling, snoring, and gassiness, all of which require a commitment to regular grooming and cleaning.