Pros & Cons: Living with a Bloodhound

Many people are under the mistaken impression that bloodhounds are "low maintenance" dogs. This is a myth. Bloodhounds have heavy, low-set ears that must be cleaned on a regular basis and kept dry to avoid constant ear infections. Also, because of the strain their sheer size places on their skeletal system, specifically their feet and legs, it is a good idea to keep their toenails trimmed to a reasonable length. The eyes must be watched for infection that can be caused by "trash" collecting in the haw (the red area underneath the eye).

Some rescued bloodhounds have special needs. Some of the dogs have come from homes that were abusive or neglectful. Our organization attempts to fully evaluate each hound for temperament issues with adults, children, other dogs and other animals prior to leaving foster care. Some of these animals will not be suitable for placement in homes with children. Others may have never been around a "positive dog influence" in their lives and may not be suitable for placement in homes with other dogs.

		Midwest Bloodhound Rescue, Inc. Pros & Cons: Living with a Bloodhound
		Living with a bloodhound can be a wonderful experience. However, before you consider taking on the responsibilities that come with adding a bloodhound to your family, you should learn about the breed itself. A bloodhound is a very large dog. The American Kennel Club classifies them as a "Giant Breed" along with Great Danes, St. Bernards and others. While a puppy may be really cute when he is 8 weeks old and weighs 18 pounds, you must consider the fact that, at the age of 6 months, he will weigh between 60-70 pounds and will stand about 22 inches tall at the shoulder. His tail will be able to clear your coffee table with one happy wag. As a general rule, bloodhounds love children. However, they may not be right for a home that has very young children simply because of their size. It is always a possibility when you mix very small children and very large dogs that children could be unintentionally hurt by the dog. Bloodhounds have an inherent tendency to say "hello" by putting their feet on you or by jumping up on you.

		. Back to Top	Many people are under the mistaken impression that bloodhounds are "low maintenance" dogs. This is a myth. Bloodhounds have heavy, low-set ears that must be cleaned on a regular basis and kept dry to avoid constant ear infections. Also, because of the strain their sheer size places on their skeletal system, specifically their feet and legs, it is a good idea to keep their toenails trimmed to a reasonable length. The eyes must be watched for infection that can be caused by "trash" collecting in the haw (the red area underneath the eye). Some rescued bloodhounds have special needs. Some of the dogs have come from homes that were abusive or neglectful. Our organization attempts to fully evaluate each hound for temperament issues with adults, children, other dogs and other animals prior to leaving foster care. Some of these animals will not be suitable for placement in homes with children. Others may have never been around a "positive dog influence" in their lives and may not be suitable for placement in homes with other dogs.