- Although there is nothing cuter than a Bloodhound puppy I do encourage anyone who is considering a Bloodhound to do their research prior to choosing a puppy. They are not for everybody.
- There are NO bargain Bloodhounds!
- Research your breeder! Please make sure they are doing health testing on their dogs. OFA is a public database, they will be able to send you a link to their dogs page.
- Please discuss with all of the family members the responsibilities involved in having a new puppy. If everyone is not on board with the decision, chances are the timing just isnt right.
- Please do not look into buying a puppy for a "gift". Even though it is a sweet thought, the gift may not be wanted!
- If you are renting, discuss a puppy with your land lord. Nobody likes surprises.
- A Bloodhound puppy can take a great deal of time to house break! Sometimes up to 6-7 months. Patience and consistency is a must with this breed.
- Bloodhounds are a very sensitive breed. They do not take harsh discipline. They require positive reinforcement.
- Bloodhounds are not a couch potato dog. They love hanging out in the house with their people, but they need exercise. A bored Bloodhound can become destructive. Eating walls, doors, furniture, etc.
- Remember house breaking is more than teaching them not to pee on the floor.
- Even if a Bloodhound was easy to house break as a puppy, they can become unruly for really no other reason than they are teenagers. It is important to understand this. Remember none of us are the same as we were when we were teenagers. This too shall pass.
- Obedience training! Dog trainers are like general practitioners. You need to have confidence in them, and feel comfortable around them. A dog trainer that believes a bloodhound is just another dog, and will train in the same manner is setting you up for failure. Bloodhounds typically have no sense of personal space
- Bloodhounds can be very stubborn! Even a very well train bloodhound can be quite obstinate if she chooses
- Bloodhounds are a scent hound, and require a fenced area to keep them safe. An area where they can dig, and chew trees...even better. If you love all of your yard manicured....a bloodhound might not be a good idea
- Bloodhounds shed, and they slobber a great deal. They can toss their slobber across the room just by shaking their head.