Basset Hounds are lovable, laid-back companions with a nose for adventure—but their strong scent drive and stubborn streak can make leash training a challenge. If your Basset pulls during walks, you’re not alone. Many owners struggle with controlling this breed’s natural instincts. Fortunately, with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, you can train your Basset Hound to walk politely by your side.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why Basset Hounds pull, how to prevent and correct the behavior, and the best tools and methods for success.
Understanding Why Basset Hounds Pull on the Leash
Before diving into training methods, it’s important to understand the behavior. Basset Hounds are scent hounds, originally bred for tracking game. Their sense of smell is second only to the Bloodhound, and once they catch an interesting scent, they may ignore everything else—including you.
Key reasons Bassets pull on walks include:
- Scent distractions: They follow their nose with little regard for leash boundaries.
- Low impulse control: Bassets are easily excitable and slow to respond.
- Inconsistent training: If a dog has been allowed to pull before, the habit becomes ingrained.
- Improper equipment: Standard collars or retractable leashes can encourage pulling.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), consistent training and breed-specific understanding are critical for managing scent hounds like Bassets [1].
Setting the Stage for Successful Leash Training
Before starting any formal training, make sure your Basset Hound’s basic needs are met:
- Exercise: A tired dog is less likely to pull.
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys and sniff games at home reduce overexcitement on walks.
- Health check: Ensure there are no underlying joint or respiratory issues that make walks uncomfortable.
Choosing the right gear is also essential. The following tools are recommended:
- Front-clip harness: This discourages pulling by redirecting their forward motion.
- Standard leash (4-6 feet): Avoid retractable leashes, which encourage constant forward movement.
- High-value treats: Use small, smelly, soft treats that are easy to dispense.
Step-by-Step: How to Train a Basset Hound to Walk Without Pulling
Step 1: Start with Focus Training
Teaching your Basset to pay attention to you is the foundation of all leash manners.
Exercise: Name Recognition and Eye Contact
- Stand with your Basset on leash indoors or in a distraction-free area.
- Say their name once and wait for eye contact.
- Mark the behavior (e.g., “Yes!” or click) and reward.
- Repeat 10–15 times until consistent.
This helps redirect their attention back to you when they’re distracted on walks.
Step 2: Teach Loose-Leash Walking
This method teaches your dog that walking calmly beside you is rewarding.
The “Stop and Go” Technique
- Begin walking in a quiet area.
- The moment your Basset pulls ahead, stop walking.
- Wait for them to turn back or return to your side.
- Reward with a treat and resume walking.
- Repeat consistently—patience is key.
Tips:
- Don’t jerk the leash—let the dog learn that pulling gets them nowhere.
- Be consistent. If you let them pull sometimes, they’ll keep testing boundaries.
Step 3: Use the “Turn Around” Method
This technique reinforces that you’re in control of the walk direction.
- Walk forward calmly.
- If your Basset pulls, turn 180° and walk the other way without yanking the leash.
- Mark and reward when they follow you calmly.
This teaches your dog that pulling leads to lost progress.
Step 4: Incorporate “Heel” Training
While “heel” is more formal than necessary for casual walks, it can help with control in busy environments.
Teaching Heel:
- Start with your Basset sitting at your side.
- Say “Heel” and take a step forward.
- Reward when they stay beside you.
- Gradually increase distance before rewarding.
Use this for crowded areas or when crossing streets.
Step 5: Add Distraction Training
Once your Basset can walk calmly in quiet areas, gradually add distractions.
- Practice in areas with mild scents and occasional people or dogs.
- Use high-value treats to maintain attention.
- Use cues like “Leave it” and “Watch me” when distracted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using punishment or choke collars: These can increase stress and fear, especially for sensitive Basset Hounds.
- Inconsistency between handlers: Everyone in the household must follow the same leash rules.
- Too-long walks: Short, structured walks are better than long, chaotic ones during training.
How Long Does It Take to Train a Basset Hound?
Every dog is different, but most Basset Hounds need several weeks to months of consistent training to improve leash manners. Don’t expect instant results—this breed is intelligent but known for being independent.
Training schedule example:
- Week 1–2: Focus work indoors and in the yard
- Week 3–4: Structured walks in quiet neighborhoods
- Week 5+: Introduce distractions and longer walks
Real-Life Success Stories
Case Study: Bella the Basset
Bella, a 3-year-old rescue Basset, used to drag her owner through the neighborhood. After switching to a front-clip harness and using the stop-and-go technique daily for three weeks, Bella began walking calmly beside her owner, even when tempted by squirrels.
Trainer Tip: “Bassets aren’t untrainable—they’re just driven by scent and habit. Make yourself more interesting than the smells around you,” says certified dog trainer Rachel Golde of Pawsitive Walks Dog Training [2].
Using Enrichment to Support Leash Training
Many Basset owners overlook the role of mental stimulation in leash behavior. A bored dog is more likely to pull, sniff obsessively, or ignore cues.
Try these enrichment strategies:
- Scatter feeding before walks to engage the nose.
- Snuffle mats to satisfy their scent needs.
- Short “sniff breaks” during walks with a release cue like “Go sniff.”
When to Seek Professional Help
If your Basset Hound continues to pull after consistent effort, consider consulting:
- A Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- A force-free behavior consultant
- A veterinarian to rule out medical issues
Group obedience classes can also help improve leash manners in social settings.
Final Thoughts: Walking a Basset Hound Should Be Fun
Training your Basset Hound to walk without pulling is a process that requires consistency, empathy, and a willingness to work with your dog’s natural instincts—not against them. While their love of sniffing and exploring is part of their charm, you can channel these traits into a more enjoyable and respectful walking routine.
With the right techniques and patience, your daily walks can become a bonding experience instead of a battle of wills.
References
- American Kennel Club. “Basset Hound Dog Breed Information.” https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/basset-hound/
- Interview with Rachel Golde, CPDT-KA, Pawsitive Walks Dog Training. (2023).
- McConnell, Patricia. The Other End of the Leash. Ballantine Books, 2003.
- Dunbar, Ian. Before and After Getting Your Puppy. New World Library, 2004.
- PetMD. “Loose-Leash Walking Training.” https://www.petmd.com/dog/training/evr_dg_loose_leash_walking
