How Much to Feed a Basset Hound (Feeding Chart & Guide)

Basset Hounds, with their distinctive droopy ears and endearing personalities, have specific dietary needs that are vital for their health and well-being.

You might wonder, “How much should I feed my Basset Hound?” It’s essential to provide the right amount of food for your pet.

This feeding guide will delve into the crucial aspects of a Basset Hound’s diet, including how much to feed them. We’ll also share tips to ensure your Basset Hound gets all the necessary nutrients for a happy, healthy life.

What Factors Impact How Much to Feed a Basset Hound?

Understanding the factors that influence how much to feed your Basset Hound is crucial. Here are the key considerations:

• Age: Basset Hound puppies, in their rapid growth phase, need more food compared to adults. They require a diet high in protein and calories to support their development. As they grow older, their caloric needs decrease, and the food quantity should be adjusted.
• Activity Level: Active Basset Hounds, engaged in regular activities like hiking or agility, need more food to sustain their energy and replenish calories. In contrast, less active dogs should consume less to avoid obesity.
• Health Conditions: Dogs with specific health issues may need specialized diets. For instance, diabetic dogs often require a certain type of food and a regular feeding schedule to regulate blood sugar levels. Similarly, dogs with kidney disease might need a diet lower in protein and other nutrients.
• Reproductive Status: Neutered or spayed Basset Hounds may need fewer calories than unaltered dogs. The change in hormones, metabolism, and activity levels after neutering or spaying often leads to a reduced caloric requirement to maintain a healthy weight.

By taking these factors into account, you can effectively manage your Basset Hound’s food intake and ensure they’re receiving the optimal nutrition for any given circumstance.

Note: Some breeders of Basset Hounds also produce miniature versions of these dogs. The feeding charts discussed in this article all refer to the standard type of this breed.

If your Basset Hound is smaller than the standard, it is best to partner with your veterinarian on the required diet for your pet.

How Much to Feed Your Basset Hound?

Given the various factors at play, finding the correct feeding amount can be a challenge. This section offers general guidelines to help you understand the appropriate food quantities for your Basset Hound at different life stages.

Basset Hound Puppy Feeding Chart (2 to 12 months)

Initially, Basset Hound puppies rely solely on their mother’s milk, which is rich in nutrients and antibodies and crucial for their growth and immunity. Colostrum in the milk is especially important for boosting their immune systems.

Weaning starts around three to four weeks, as puppies develop teeth and become more mobile. This is when they begin transitioning from milk to solid puppy food.

Here’s a feeding chart to guide you in feeding your Basset Hound puppy:

Proper nutrition is key for healthy bone development during the puppy stage. Alongside dry dog food, ensure your Basset Hound puppy has constant access to fresh, clean water for their overall health and well-being.

In my experience handling different types of Bassett Hounds, they are really bulky and heavy dogs. Just imagine how those short, stubby legs support all that weight, especially with their active lifestyle.

Hence, when Bassett owners go to me to ask for advice on what is the best diet for their dogs, I always advise them to ensure that their pets are given foods that are rich in calcium and phosphorus to support their bones and joints.

Adult Basset Hound Feeding Chart ( 1 to 6 years)

As your Basset Hound transitions into adulthood, its nutritional requirements will evolve.

At this point, it’s important to transition from puppy food to adult dog food, as they differ in nutritional composition. Feeding your dog age-appropriate food is vital for its well-being.

The following adult Basset Hound feeding chart provides a guideline for daily food quantities and caloric intake:

Remember, while Basset Hounds are generally known for their relaxed demeanor, if you have a particularly active dog, you might need to adjust its diet to cater to its increased energy needs and support healthy growth.

Senior Basset Hound Feeding Chart (8 years and above)

As Basset Hounds enter their senior years, their activity levels typically decrease, and their metabolism slows down. This stage of life often brings an increased susceptibility to various health issues.

To maintain a healthy weight, it’s important to provide senior Basset Hounds with a consistent, high-quality diet. Incorporating natural fibers into their dry food can be beneficial for digestion and help ensure they absorb the essential nutrients they need.

The recommended daily food intake for senior Basset Hounds is outlined in the chart below:

Additionally, older Basset Hounds may not show the same level of enthusiasm for food as they did in their younger years.

Trying out different types of adult dog foods can be a good strategy to pique their interest in eating and to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for their health and longevity.

How Often Should You Feed Your Basset Hound?

Basset Hound puppies typically require three to four meals per day due to their higher energy needs and faster metabolism. As they grow into adults, two meals per day are usually sufficient. In contrast, senior Basset Hounds may only need one well-balanced meal daily.

The recommended feeding frequency for Basset Hounds at different life stages are as follows:

A balanced diet, combined with an appropriate feeding schedule, can help ensure that your Basset Hound lives a happy and healthy life.

How to Transition Your Basset Hound to a New Food

Transitioning your Basset Hound to new food, whether due to changes in dietary requirements, aging, or specific health conditions, should be done cautiously to prevent digestive issues.

This process should ideally span about a week, involving gradual adjustments in the proportion of old to new food.

Here’s how to transition your Basset Hound to a new diet:

This gradual approach allows your dog’s body to adapt to the new diet. You should also ensure that the new food is appropriate for your Basset Hound’s age, health condition, and activity level.

Keep in mind that each dog is unique. Some may require a longer transition period or different ratios of old to new food.

Tips on Feeding an Overweight Basset Hound

Managing the diet of an overweight Basset Hound requires careful planning and attention to detail. It’s not just about reducing the number of meals but also about focusing on age-appropriate nutrition and their specific body condition.

Here are tips for feeding an overweight Basset Hound:

• Measure their food. Free feeding can often lead to overeating. It’s important to measure the exact amount of food based on your dog’s dietary needs and weight loss objectives. Consistency in portion sizes is key.
• Choose high-quality, low-calorie food. Regular dog food may not be suitable for weight loss. Opt for high-quality, low-calorie options specially formulated for weight management. These foods are typically lower in calories but higher in fiber, helping your dog feel full and satisfied.
• Feed separately from other pets. If you have multiple pets, feed your overweight Basset Hound separately. This prevents them from accessing other pets’ food and allows you to closely monitor their intake.
• Avoid unnecessary treats: Regular treats and table scraps can contribute to weight gain. Choose healthier snacks like carrots, green beans, or apples instead.

Remember, patience and consistency are key when managing the weight of an overweight Basset Hound. Small, sustainable changes in their diet and lifestyle can lead to significant health improvements over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If I’m Feeding My Basset Hound Enough?

To know if you’re feeding your Basset Hound enough, you should observe your Basset’s weight, monitor their health conditions, and follow the recommended feeding guidelines based on their age and activity level. 

Also, consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s nutrition or feeding habits.

Why Is My Basset Hound Not Eating?

There could be several reasons why your Basset Hound is not eating, including illness, dental issues, changes in puppy food or environment, stress, or simply being a picky eater. 

If you notice any other symptoms or the lack of appetite persists, it’s best to consult with your vet to rule out any underlying health issues.

Can I Feed My Basset Hound With Human Food?

Feeding your Basset Hound with human food is generally not recommended as their digestive system and nutritional needs differ from ours. 

Human food can also cause digestive issues, obesity, and other health problems in dogs. Sticking to a well-balanced, high-quality dog food specifically formulated for their dietary needs is best. 

However, if you want to give them human food as an occasional treat, ensure it is safe, sugar-free, salt-free, and not toxic for dogs, and limit the amount you give them.

Do Basset Hounds Eat a Lot?

Many Basset Hounds have a moderate appetite when it comes to dog food. However, they are prone to gaining weight and overeating, so monitoring the amount of food you give and providing a balanced diet is essential.

Can Basset Hounds Eat Bones?

Feeding your Basset Hound bones, especially cooked ones, is not recommended as they can splinter and cause serious digestive problems or even choking hazards. 

It’s best to stick to specially designed dog chews and treats that are safe for your pet’s consumption.

We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you on how much to feed your Basset Hound. If you have any additional questions or would like to share your own experiences and tips, please leave a comment in the section below.