Obedience training provides a great foundation for any Basset Hound. The ability to walk correctly on a lead, sit, stay, and come when called will help any dog become a better and safer pet. Whether you are walking your dog on a busy street or have guests visit for dinner, a well-behaved pet is appreciated by all. Through obedience, your Basset Hound will learn correct social behavior, and you will learn to correct unwanted behaviors. Whether you have an interest in competing in obedience or not, it is important that every Basset Hound and owner spend the time to acquire basic skills.
The Basset Hound is actually quite a smart breed. They are bred to be independent thinkers, so they do not wish to be bored with repetitive work. Every dog is different, and activity levels vary greatly. Learning these skills with your Basset Hound will be both rewarding and beneficial.
As a competitive sport, obedience demonstrates the dog’s ability to follow specified routines and emphasizes the usefulness of the dog as a companion by behaving properly in the home, in public places, and around other dogs.
Basset Hound University has two courses that will help you learn about basic obedience skills:
During the last few years, obedience competition has evolved quite extensively. For those intimidated by obedience, Rally may be a good starting point. If you are comfortable moving forward with obedience, there are many resources available to help you. While some may doubt the Basset Hound’s ability in obedience, it is simply a matter of proper and creative training. Bassets are intelligent and do not enjoy excessive repetition. Most are easily motivated and happy with the attention they receive while training.
Many local AKC clubs provide classes. With the popularity of obedience and other events rising, there are many training facilities as well.
Puppy Class
Young puppies, generally 3 to 5 months of age, will socialize with similar-age puppies and learn basic commands.
Basic Class
Often for dogs over 5 months. Your Basset Hound should learn essential commands such as sit, stay, stand, heel, down, and come.
Companion Events Classes
These classes help prepare you and your dog for obedience competition and other events such as Rally and Agility.
CGC (Canine Good Citizen)
The CGC program is designed to encourage dogs to be good pets and owners to be responsible dog owners.
How do I find a class or additional resources?
There are many resources available to you. If you are unable to find a situation that works for you in your area, contact the Public Education Chairperson, Sue Smyth at OldYork2002@aol.com.
List of Available AKC Obedience Titles
- Beginner Novice (BN)
- Graduate Novice (GN)
- Companion Dog (CD)
- Preferred Novice (PCD)
- Companion Dog Excellent (CDX)
- Graduate Open (GO)
- Preferred Open (PCDX)
- Utility Dog (UD)
- Utility Dog Excellent (UDX)
- Preferred Utility (PUTD)
- Obedience Master (OM)
- Grand Master (OGM)
- Obedience Trial Champion (OTCH)
- National Obedience Champion (NOC)
- Versatility (VER)
- Preferred Utility Dog Excellent (PUDX)
- Preferred Obedience Champion (POC)
