Do Basset Hounds Shed? How to Reduce Shedding?

Updated May 1, 2023
a basset hound sitting on a sofa
A Basset Hound sitting on a sofa. Photo by andreac77, Adobe Stock

There’s something special about Basset Hounds, and every dog lover knows it. These droopy-eared dogs are gentle, loving, and always happy to see their people. They make perfect companions for anyone who wants a loyal friend by their side. 

Basset Hounds are also known for being incredibly easy to care for. They’re not picky eaters and they don’t need a lot of exercise. This makes them the perfect pet for busy families or those who live in small apartments. If you’re considering adding a Basset Hound to your family, there are a few things you should know first and among them, one of the most important things you might want to know is ‘Do Basset Hounds Shed?’ 

To know about Basset Hounds' shedding, keep reading on.  

What Are Basset Hounds Coats Like? 

Basset Hounds have a very distinct coat that is different from any other breed of dog. They have long, low-hanging ears and very short tails. Regardless of whether their coat is short or long, the coat will always be dense and heavy for sure. Basset Hound coats come in all colors, but the most common are tri-colored (black, tan, and white). 

One of the best things about Basset Hounds is their amazing sense of smell. This comes in handy because their thick coat can be quite hot in warm weather. The downside to their coats is that they are not very good at staying warm in cold weather. So, if you live somewhere with cold winters, you may need to consider buying your dogs a coat or sweater to keep them warm! 

Do Basset Hounds Shed? 

The best way to find out if your Basset Hound will shed is to ask the breeder or previous owner. 

One common question people have about Basset Hounds is whether they shed a lot. There is no easy answer to this question because it depends on the individual dog. The answer is that all dogs shed to some degree and some Basset Hounds shed a lot, while others hardly shed at all. 

Though Basset Hounds do not shed as much as some other breeds of dogs. If you are someone who does not like to deal with dog hair on your clothes and furniture, then a Basset Hound may not be the best breed for you. However, if you are willing to vacuum or sweep up occasional hairballs then a Basset Hound can make a great pet! 

If you are considering getting a Basset Hound, be prepared for some shedding. Bassets are a breed that sheds year-round, but they tend to molt more heavily in the spring and fall. Brushing your dog regularly can help minimize shedding, but there will always be some hair around the house. 

Why Do Basset Hounds Shed? 

There are many reasons why Basset Hounds shed. One reason is that they have a double coat of fur. This means that they have an outer layer of fur to protect them from the elements and an inner layer of fur to keep them warm. The two layers of fur can become matted together, which can lead to excessive shedding. Another reason Basset Hounds shed is because they are bred for hunting rabbits. When they're out in the wild chasing rabbits, their coats get covered in dirt and burrs. And finally, Basset Hounds tend to Shed more in the springtime when their winter coats start coming off. 

When Do Basset Hounds Shed? 

Basset Hounds are a breed of dog that is known for their long ears and droopy faces. They are also known for their propensity to shed, which can be a problem for some people who own them. Basset Hounds typically start shedding in the early spring and continue to do so until late fall. During this time, they will lose their undercoat, which is the layer of fur that helps keep them warm during the winter.  

While Basset Hounds tend to shed less than some breeds, they still shed from moderate to a high degree. This might be frustrating for people who are not used to dealing with dog hair all over their house and clothes. However, there are ways to deal with this problem. If you're someone who hates constantly having dog hair all over your house, clothing, and furniture then a Basset Hound may not be the best pet choice for you. However, if you're willing to put in a little extra effort during shedding season then these lovable dogs could make great companions. 

Factors That Trigger Basset Hounds' Shedding 

There are various factors that can trigger Basset Hounds shedding. The most common triggers are changes in seasons, hormonal changes, and stress. 

  1. Changes in Seasons: Basset hounds tend to shed more during the spring and fall when there are major temperature changes. This is because their coats change color to adapt to the different weather conditions. During the summer, their coat will be lighter in color while in the winter it will be darker.   
  1. Hormonal Changes: Basset hounds also experience a lot of hormonal changes as they go through puberty and into adulthood. These hormonal changes can cause them to shed more than usual.  
  1. Stress: Stress is another factor that can trigger Basset Hound shedding. When dogs feel stressed, they may start licking themselves excessively which can lead to bald patches on their skin from all of the licking. 

How to Deal with Basset Hounds' Shedding 

As a Basset Hound lover, you know that these dogs are infamous for their shedding. Not only is this frustrating when your house is covered in dog hair, but it can also be dangerous for your pet if they ingest too much hair while licking themselves. Fortunately, there are several ways to deal with Basset Hound shedding that will help keep your home clean and minimize the amount of hair your dog ingests.  

  • One way to reduce shedding is to brush your dog regularly. This will remove loose hair before it has a chance to fall out and accumulate on the floor or furniture.  
  • It's also important to bathe your pet regularly, as wet fur traps more dirt and debris than dry fur does.  
  • You can use a special shampoo designed for dogs who shed excessively or simply add a tablespoon of olive oil to their bathwater; the oil will help loosen any dead skin cells and hairs that are stuck together so they can be washed away more easily.  
  • Finally, you can try using a vacuum cleaner with a special attachment designed specifically for removing pet hair from furniture and carpets. Be sure to vacuum at least once per week (more often if necessary) to get rid of all the loose hair before it has time to build up again.  

With these simple steps, you can keep Basset Hounds from shedding all over your house - and keep yourself from going crazy in the process! 

Are Basset Hounds Hypoallergenic?

Main article: Are Basset Hounds Hypoallergenic? Explained.

There is no breed of dog that is universally hypoallergenic, and Basset Hounds are no exception. While some people may not have an allergic reaction to Basset Hounds, others may find that they are very allergic to the breed. Allergens can be found in the dog's skin cells, saliva, and urine, so even if a person does not react to a Basset Hound when they are first exposed to it, they may later develop an allergy.  

If you are considering getting a Basset Hound and you know that you are allergic to dogs, it is important to do some testing before bringing the animal home. Spend time around other people's Basset Hounds, go for walks with them, or visit a breeder so that you can get close-up exposure without having an adverse reaction. If you do have an allergy flare-up after spending time with a Basset Hound – even if it's just one time – then this breed is not right for you. 

You may read more here about why Basset Hounds are not considered hypoallergenic.

What If Your Basset Hound Is Shedding Way More Than Usual? 

If your Basset Hound is shedding way more than usual, there could be a few reasons why. First, it's important to rule out any medical causes by taking your dog to the veterinarian. Once you know that your puppy is healthy, you can begin to look at other factors like diet and environment. 

Basset Hounds are bred for their long hair, so they tend to shed to a certain degree. However, if your dog is constantly losing large clumps of hair or seems uncomfortable due to all the shedding, there might be something wrong. Excessive shedding can be a sign of allergies or skin problems, so it's best to get it checked out by a professional. 

In the meantime, you can try changing up your dog's diet or switching him/her over to all-natural pet food products. You might also want to vacuum and sweep more often (or invest in a good quality robot vacuum) and keep them away from areas where dust tends to accumulate (like near heating vents). With some minor adjustments, hopefully, you'll be able once again to enjoy seeing less fur on the floor - and your clothes! 

Final Thoughts 

Basset Hounds are known for their droopy ears and big personalities. They also happen to shed to a certain degree. While this may seem like a downside, it's important to remember that Basset Hounds make great companions and are worth the extra vacuuming! 

Basset Hounds love spending time with their families and are always up for a game of fetch or a walk in the park. They're also known for being very patient with children, making them great family pets. As long as you're prepared to deal with some shedding, a Basset Hound is sure to bring joy into your life. 

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