Hound dogs: puppy and junior

Hounds were bred to hunt by scent or by sight, from pack scent hounds such as Beagles to fast sight hounds such as Greyhounds and Whippets. For an owner today, that heritage means planning walks, recall practice and secure spaces around a dog that may be led by its nose, its eyes or both.

Example breeds in this group: Beagle, Dachshund (Long Haired), Greyhound, Whippet, Basset Hound.

Hound puppies need early confidence, low-impact exercise and steady foundations for recall before the world becomes more interesting than you are.

• The Kennel Club says the first 16 weeks create lasting learning, and recommends pleasant exposure to adults, children, vets, adult dogs, other animals, traffic, crowds and household sounds. It also says puppy training should include recall, walking nicely on the lead, grooming and being examined by you and your vet.

  Source: What is puppy socialisation?, The Kennel Club

• PDSA says puppies should exercise at home until fully protected by vaccination, then begin gentle walks at their own pace. It advises avoiding exercise that strains a developing body, such as jumping, leaping, turning and fast running.

  Source: Exercising your puppy, PDSA

• Dogs Trust says recall should start indoors, in the garden or in another enclosed space, with rewards when the dog comes back. As distractions increase, Dogs Trust advises using a long line attached to a harness and only letting a dog off lead when you are confident they will return.

  Source: How to train your dog to come back when called, Dogs Trust

• PDSA says puppies should ideally start vaccines at around 6 to 8 weeks old, with injections spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, and that your vet can discuss the vaccines your dog needs. It also says unvaccinated puppies should not go on the ground in public places or mix with unvaccinated dogs from outside the household.

  Source: Dog Vaccines, PDSA, 2022