A Tricolor Basset Puppy Proudly Tackles a Tennis Ball Bigger Than His Mouth

A bright yellow tennis ball is almost bigger than the mouth trying to hold it. A tricolor Basset Hound puppy has lowered his head, ears dragging on the floor, and clamped his jaws around the ball with great determination. His coat is a deep black with white socks and tan markings, and behind him lies a room full of baskets, laundry and a potted plant.

Balls are classic puppy toys, but they need to be the right size. A ball that is too small can be swallowed, while a very big one is hard to hold. Tennis balls are fuzzy and can wear down teeth if chewed constantly, so supervise, and replace them when they fray. Bassets are scent hounds, not athletes, so they enjoy sniffing games more than fast fetch. Hide a ball under a towel or toss a treat in the grass and let him follow his nose. Keep sessions short and gentle for a puppy's growing joints. Because of their long backs and heavy bodies, avoid high jumps, and talk to your vet about safe exercise. Always put toys away when you cannot watch.

This puppy is quite proud of his catch. The ball may be slightly slobbery, but it belongs to him now, and he isn't letting go. If it rolls away, he will follow it at a Basset's pace, which is to say steady, unhurried and absolutely certain.