The Basset Hound is one of the nicest, laziest dogs I've ever known. Growing up, we always had Beagles as my father was a hunter. We also knew other families who had Beagles and an occasional Basset. The wandering and running off, I believe stems not only from their inbred instinct, but more from the fact that many Basset/hunting dog owners tend to keep their dogs outside and really, only let them out of their cages when it's time to go hunt. No small wonder that when they get loose, they are off and on the chase.

I have a Beagle now. She was from the beginning a housedog and a pet, She learned to obey and do tricks before she learned anything else. She even comes to work with (as she is my constant companion). The lounge next door where I often eat lunch has adopted her and willingly invites her in to join me, and the patrons give her treats and have her perform for them. Ironically, since these dogs do love to hunt (I myself do not hunt), I did train her for the field as well. My father who is an avid hunter said she "would never hunt" - because of the indoor socialization and her pet nature. This is an opinion shared by many old time die hard hunters. But to his amazement, not only is she a fantastic hunter, she is probably the best behaved and willing listener of any dog he's ever seen in the field (the real consequence of her early socialization and training).

To make my point. Yes, these breeds do want to hunt and are very happy when on the chase. But treating them like any other breed with early training will allow them to bond with you and become more than just a working/sport dog. My dog is rarely on her leash. And she attends all my children's sporting events outside and in big fields. She stays by my side. She even comes to family events likes picnics and such - and again stays with the crowd.

Now I don't want to paint too rosy of a picture. If left alone and ignored, she will entertain herself which invariably leads to smelling around - which invariably leads to her wandering off. Suffice to say, that I have never known a Basset or Beagle who could simply be let off their leash and left to their own devices all day who wouldn't eventually decide to go exploring!

Dan