What is the best dog food for a Basset Hound?

Key takeaways

• Keep meals calorie-controlled to help your Basset maintain a healthy weight.
• Choose high-quality proteins and omega-rich ingredients to support muscles, joints, and skin.
• Include prebiotic fibres to promote steady digestion and reduce sensitivities.
• Adjust portion sizes as your dog ages or activity levels change.
• Stick to a consistent feeding routine to discourage overeating and reduce the risk of bloating.

What do Basset Hounds need in their diet?

Basset Hounds thrive on moderate calories, digestible proteins, joint- and skin-supporting nutrients, and gentle, gut-friendly fibres.

Bassets are known for their relaxed energy and affectionate nature. That same easy-going lifestyle, combined with a sturdy build, makes them prone to weight gain if calorie intake isn’t managed. It’s important to feed nutrient-dense, portion-controlled meals where every bite contributes to health and not just fullness.

Good quality protein helps maintain muscle along a Basset’s long back and strong legs. Marleybones uses real meats such as chicken, beef, lamb, and salmon in every Pantry Fresh® meal for easy digestion and steady energy. Bassets also benefit from omega-3 fats that support joint health under that strong frame. Including gentle fibres and prebiotics like chicory root and yucca can also soothe sensitive stomachs, which many hounds experience.

• Moderate calories to prevent unwanted weight gain
• Slow-cooked, digestible proteins to support muscle maintenance and repair
• Omega-3s for joint strength and mobility
• Prebiotic-rich fibres to help sensitive digestion

Which factors influence the right food for a Basset Hound?

Age, activity level, skin condition, ingredient quality, and feeding routine all shape what dog food is best for a Basset Hound.

Bassets’ needs change as they move through puppyhood, adulthood, and senior years, so portions should evolve with age and energy levels. Marleybones meals are complete and balanced across life stages, but adjusting portion sizes as activity decreases is essential to protect joints and waistlines. A measured, evidence-led approach to nutrition helps your hound stay comfortable for longer.

Skin and coat issues are not uncommon in Basset Hounds—some may show oily skin or itching. Recipes rich in natural fish and omegas, such as Sassy Salmon, can make a real difference. Choosing fresh, simple ingredients and avoiding unnecessary fillers also supports smoother digestion. Regular mealtimes and careful portioning help prevent overeating and minimise the risk of bloating that can come with a hearty appetite.

• Tailor meals to life stage and energy level
• Prioritise omega-rich, gently cooked ingredients for skin and coat health
• Feed at regular times to manage hunger and digestive comfort

How Marleybones delivers complete, balanced nutrition for Basset Hounds

Marleybones offers slow-cooked Pantry Fresh® meals from traceable ingredients, balanced for all ages and rich in the nutrients Bassets need.

Each Pantry Fresh® meal is gently slow-cooked in its own pack, preserving the natural nutrients of every high-quality ingredient while remaining shelf-stable. The result is a fresh-tasting, ready-to-serve meal that keeps the nutritional integrity of careful cooking without losing convenience or quality.

We take extra care with joint and skin support. Meals are naturally rich in omegas and designed to work alongside our Omega Oil or Gut Health Supplement, helping promote a shiny coat and steady digestion. Prebiotic ingredients such as chicory root and yucca offer gentle support for sensitive tummies, and traceable sourcing helps owners manage allergies or sensitivities with confidence.

• Whole meats and nourishing superfoods
• No hidden additives—simple, slow-cooked nutrition
• Packed with natural prebiotics and nutrients that support joints
• Each Marleybones Pantry Fresh® box is portioned to match your dog’s individual needs

You can take our quiz to discover your dog’s personalised meal plan—tailored for your Basset’s age, size, and sensitivities.

How to choose and serve the best fresh meals for your Basset Hound

Correct portioning, suitable supplements, a consistent routine, and regular checks help Bassets thrive on a fresh diet.

Basset Hounds often adore their food, so always follow feeding guidelines that match your dog’s ideal weight and body condition. Marleybones makes this simple with pre-portioned Pantry Fresh® meals calculated for each pet, removing the guesswork from serving sizes and encouraging healthier habits. If your Basset shows any signs of itchiness or stiffness, adding our Omega Oil or Gut Health Supplement may be beneficial.

Consistency is key. Feeding twice a day keeps hunger and digestion steady. Maintaining a consistent weight helps protect joints and promotes long-term mobility. Regularly check your dog’s body condition and movement so you can adjust early if extra weight or stiffness appears.

• Measure and adjust portions to prevent excess weight
• Use supplements for additional support with joints, digestion, or skin and coat
• Stick to structured feeding times each day
• Monitor body condition and joint health through gentle, regular checks

The final woof

Good care for your Basset begins at mealtimes. Their lovable build and calm temperament need thoughtful nutrition to stay fit, mobile, and comfortable at every age. With slow-cooked, fresh ingredients and balanced portioning, you can help your hound thrive from nose to tail. Small routines and mindful attention now build long-term wellbeing—here’s to happy, healthy Bassets enjoying every meal.

FAQ

What is the healthiest diet for a Basset Hound?

The healthiest diet for a Basset Hound is a balanced, freshly prepared meal built on real proteins, gentle fibres, and joint-supporting omegas—without unnecessary fillers. Marleybones meals are designed to support digestion, skin, joints, and a healthy weight together.

Can Basset Hounds eat the same meals as puppies or seniors?

Yes. Marleybones Pantry Fresh® recipes are complete and balanced for all life stages, from puppy to senior. Feed according to the recommended portion for your Basset’s age, weight, and activity level.

How does slow-cooked fresh food benefit a Basset Hound’s digestion?

Slow cooking preserves protein structure and valuable nutrients, making food easier to digest. Ingredients such as chicory root and yucca act as prebiotics, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and supporting sensitive stomachs.

What portions of fresh meals should I feed a Basset Hound daily?

Daily portions depend on your dog’s weight, age, and activity. Marleybones provides pre-portioned meals tailored to your Basset’s needs to help maintain a healthy body condition and ideal energy levels.

Which Marleybones recipe is best for a Basset Hound with skin issues?

Sassy Salmon, rich in natural omega-3 fatty acids, is especially suited to Basset Hounds prone to itchy or oily skin. It supports coat shine and helps soothe irritation gently.