Caring for Your Bloodhound Cross: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

by Zander Panford. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Sep 14, 2024

Introduction

The Bloodhound Cross, a blend of bloodhounds and another breed, typically inherited the unique characteristics of their parent line - the hound group. This mixed-breed dog has become increasingly popular among pet owners for its calm demeanor and exceptional scenting abilities.

Within this guide, you'll discover essential aspects of caring for a Bloodhound Cross in addition to tackling typical issues that arise from their hybrid nature, providing a comprehensive overview of this magnificent cross.

General Care

Assuming no significant health risks or allergies exist with specific ancestors within the bloodline, bloodhounds are a hardy breed. Here's an overview of what makes them thrive:

• Exercise: Regular exercise must be part of any dog owner’s schedule. Bloodhounds enjoy leisurely walks but tend to prefer longer adventures due to their scent-hunting instincts. At least a 30-minute walk each day is ideal.
• Diet: Feeding them a well-balanced diet tailored for large breeds is key, considering a high-quality mix and appropriate feeding amounts based on your Bloodhound Cross’s age, activity level, and general health.
• Shelter: Dogs are social animals seeking shelter or belonging, so ensuring they feel secure within their habitat is crucial. Adequate space to move around comfortably should be available within the home along with access to various spots for relaxation.

Bloodhound Cross Issues

Several concerns often surface when combining bloodhounds with other breeds in your dog, mainly because of inherited traits from the parents:

• Socialization: Their ancestry brings about a tendency for them to bond closely. Hence social contact is a must. You may also need some techniques to encourage group interaction at home or through local pet walking opportunities.
• Growth Control: Due to their growth patterns and potential size, early care practices like feeding according to specific weights of dogs in similar lineage help control final height effectively preventing bone issues.

Feeding a Bloodhound Cross

Proper Diet Plan

Bloodhound Cross diets must adhere to the bloodhound standard dietary requirements adjusted for any mix. Some factors require consideration:

• Size and weight: The diet must take into account your pet's age, size, overall condition of its body, whether it is overweight or lean as well as activity level to select an ideal combination.
• Nutrient Balance: Balanced, complete nutrients support their basic health such as proteins for muscle growth, carbs providing energy and essential vitamins for good health. A veterinarian might recommend the best approach based on individual circumstances.

Healthy Treats

While choosing your dog’s main meals, healthy treats that provide good benefits to its digestive system might be taken in consideration:

• Raw meat or bone broths: Adding such options into meals are considered beneficial, providing necessary vitamins without making them overly rich.