Training “Stubborn” Dogs

If you have a Basset hound, you’ve probably been told you have a “stubborn” breed and that maybe your dog just isn’t very trainable. There is a little truth to that, but knowing and understanding WHY will be your key to success.

Hound dogs are in a unique class of canine. Their sense of smell is keener than most breeds and they are amazing hunters. Bassets are particularly patient dogs, which actually makes them very trainable, but the trainer has to be just as patient as the dog, or even more so! Here are a few tips to help you as you teach your Basset simple commands.

Keep distractions low at first. Because the Basset hound is instinctively a hunter and often keeps his nose to the ground, distractions are literally EVERYWHERE. If you’re working on basic commands, such as sit, you’ll want to stay away from places where scents can be abundant. That means, no backyard and no kitchen.

Keep excitement low. When you are working with your dog, keep your excitement out of the environment. It’s easy for humans to get into a happy, excited state of mind when you’re with your dog, but your dog needs calmness to work. Excitement can be just as distracting as scent. Try moving your dog into your training area without words and as nonchalantly as possible. Your body language should be the only thing he reads.

Be persistent and consistent. Once you’ve gotten your dog to learn a command, you’ll want to be diligent about using that command often. Start in the training area at first, then move to an area just outside the training spot, and then farther away, and ultimately anywhere you and your dog happen to be. It’s important to note that any change in training must be done in small increments in order for it to be successful.

With a lot of patience and the proper methods, your Basset can learn anything you set before him. Understanding why he prefers to do something other than listen to you is half the battle. With hounds, in general, the biggest challenge is in being more patient and more persistent than the dog himself.