Is a Bloodhound the Right Dog for Your Home?

Bloodhounds are known for their incredible sense of smell and droopy faces, but how well do these hound heroes fit into suburban life? If you’re living in the ‘burbs and considering adding a Bloodhound to your family, here are some serious pros to this lovable breed and things to watch out for.

Pro: Good for Active Lifestyles

If you enjoy long walks or hiking, your Bloodhound will be a perfect match. These breeds require a lot of physical activity, and their stamina is impressive. Living in a suburban area with access to parks and trails will give your Bloodhound the space to stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors.

Con: Can’t Resist Following Scents

That excellent nose comes with a catch. Bloodhounds are well-known for wandering off if they catch an attractive scent. Suburban streets might be full of tempting smells that could lead them astray. You’ll need a secure yard and extra vigilance during walks to keep your hound from chasing scents into danger.

Pro: Gentle and Friendly Temperament

Despite their large size, this breed is gentle with a laid-back and friendly demeanor that makes excellent pets. If you’re living in a quiet suburban area, they’re less likely to bark and disturb the neighbors. Their friendly attitude towards both kids and adults adds to their charm as a family companion.

Con: Stubbornness Is Real

Bloodhounds can be stubborn when they don’t want to do something. If they’ve decided, no amount of coaxing will get them to budge. Training a Bloodhound requires patience and persistence, and in a suburban setting, this trait can be frustrating when you want them to behave or follow commands.

Pro: A Loyal Companion for Life

This breed is an incredibly loyal companion that forms deep bonds with its families. Their dedication to their humans makes them excellent pets for anyone who craves that close, loyal connection. This breed is known for sticking close to family members, offering protection and comfort most endearingly.

Con: Size Matters

These big dogs weigh up to 110 pounds, which can be too much for smaller suburban homes. Their size means they take up a lot of space indoors, and they need enough room to stretch out. If your home is on the smaller side, their bulk can feel like too much to handle.

Pro: Low Maintenance Coat

For such a large breed, they don’t require a complicated grooming routine. Their short coats are relatively easy to manage, which can be a blessing for busy suburban families. A weekly brush is often all it takes to keep their coat in good shape. Unlike fluffier breeds, you won’t have to worry about excessive shedding. 

Con: Some Health Issues

Unfortunately, Bloodhounds can suffer from various health issues, especially related to their joints and digestive systems. Bloat, hip dysplasia, and ear infections due to their floppy ears are typical in this breed. Veterinary care can become expensive, and you’ll need to ensure their health is in good shape with regular check-ups.

Pro: Relatively Healthy Breed

While they can suffer from all those ailments, they tend to have strong immune systems and can live healthy lives with proper care. On average, these dogs have relatively good health and have a life expectancy of 10-12 years. Regular exercise, vet check-ups, and a balanced diet will keep them in good shape.

Con: Excessive Drooling

Grooming might be easy, but the drool is real as they are known for their saliva, which can end up on furniture, floors, and even your guests. Suburban homes with nice upholstery might suffer from frequent slime encounters. And keeping a towel handy at all times will become part of your routine. 

Pro: Social Butterflies

Apart from being friendly with people, Bloodhounds get along well with other dogs, too. They thrive in social settings and are known for their gentle, welcoming demeanor around other pets. Being social butterflies makes them an ideal fit for multi-pet households, where their friendly nature can be fully expressed.

Con: They are Loud

These hounds are known for their howling and booming bark, which can quickly become a problem in closely-knit suburban neighborhoods. Whenever they catch a scent or see something suspicious, you’ll hear about it, and so will your neighbors. Training them to manage barking is a must for a peaceful living situation.

Pro: Highly Trainable with Patience

Though stubborn, bloodhounds are intelligent and respond well to training, especially when food rewards are involved. With consistency and tolerance, you can teach them to follow commands and even participate in scent games. Their intelligence means they can adapt well to suburban life, provided they get enough mental stimulation.

Con: Not Ideal for Those with Busy Schedules

Of course, they form strong bonds with their families but may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. When their caregivers are away from home, they may become lonely or destructive. Their need for companionship can challenge suburban dwellers with hectic work schedules. 

Pro: Unique, Attention-Grabbing Looks

With their floppy ears and soulful eyes, Bloodhounds attract attention wherever they go. If you love getting compliments from neighbors or meeting new people, this dog will turn heads every walk. They’re the pet that makes you a little more popular around the block.