AboutNicole Expertise I will offer assistance to anyone needing help with general Basset Hound care, health and behavior/training.
I do not, however, assist those who have bred their pet. If you are responsibly breeding, you shouldn't have simple questions as your mentor should be providing you all the instruction you need.
Experience I currently own a 5 year old Basset Hound and his 6 non-basset siblings...(a mutt and 5 Boxers). I have studied dog behavior and training extensively and train my own dogs.
Organizations Buckeye Boxer Rescue
Education/Credentials I was a certified obedience instructor and a certified potty-training instructor with Petsmart and studied under a canine behaviorist.
Question My basset has started whining this week for some unknown reason. he seems to be worried and a little anxious and wants to go outside a lot. his bodily functions seem to be fine. he is never done this before and i am really worried.he is eating and drinking fine. he is not neutered yet, maybe that is the reason? Or is it with age their sense of smell can increase? I am really worried that there is no figuring it out. the kids say that he whines when i leave for work, but this is the first i have heard it and it lasts a good hour AFTER i get home. please help!
Answer Hi Valerie,
Any time a dog exhibits not normal behavior, a vet should be consulted.
You don't say how old he is but as he's not neutered yet, I will assume that he's young. Younger dogs go through stages...
As you'll read, between 6-14 months, puppies go through a second fear stage. If this is close to the age of your dog, do as the article suggests and ignore the whining.
He may also be coming a bit too attached to you. If you are responsible for his feeding, grooming and exercise, allow another member of the household to complete these tasks (if they are responsible enough).
The NILF method of training may also get him over the hump...
If he's an older dog, I would be more concerned about ill health as it is not normal for an adult dog to suddenly change personality or behavior.
Being neutered or not would have nothing to do with his whining unless he is sexually mature (about a year old) and there is a female in heat nearby (under a mile).
Puppies are born with their noses wide open, it is the first sense they have (aside from touch). It may become more developed as they are maturing (slightly) but would also not have an effect on his current behavior.
