Overview
The Basset Hound Mix is a cross between a Basset Hound and another dog breed. Because a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of the parents, it’s important to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed.
Should a Basset Hound Mix take more after their Basset Hound parent, they’ll likely be a medium-sized dog that fits in well with families. They’re also likely to have a sweet nature and a playful personality.
Temperament
Basset Hounds are known to be loyal sweethearts that bond closely with their families and are devoted to them. They are affectionate and playful. They tend to get along well with other dogs and children.
But, they do tend to have a high prey drive, so they will need some extra socialization with any smaller pets in the household. You should be able to expect something similar in a Basset Hound Mix. The other parent breed could throw some other traits into the mix, so you do want to ask the breeder about them.
Adaptability
Akitas are moderately adaptable dogs that can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need to be happy and healthy.
Due to their protective instincts and high prey drive, they should only be let off-leash in securely fenced areas. Depending on the other parent breed, they could make your Akita Mix less adaptable, so it’s important to ask the breeder about them.
Health
Are mixed-breed dogs healthier ? They can be, but that is not a guarantee. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health concerns from one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. From the Basset Hound side, some potential health concerns for a Basset Hound Mix could include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and glaucoma. Because of their long, droopy ears, Basset Hounds are also more prone to ear infections. If a Basset Hound Mix also has droopy ears, then they will also be more prone to developing ear infections.
Owner Experience
Although Basset Hounds can be a good fit for first-time dog owners, they can be stubborn. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. The other parent breed could be more easily trainable, but you will still want to be prepared for a potentially stubborn Basset Hound Mix. Regardless of owner experience or overall trainability of the dog, puppy training classes are still a good idea because they often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy
Grooming
A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a blend of both. If a Basset Hound Mix ends up with a Basset Hound coat, they will shed moderately year-round. Weekly brushing, regular cleaning of the face wrinkles, and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep their coat looking great. The other parent breed in the mix could result in more or less required grooming.
Regardless of coat type, you will need to care for your Basset Hound Mix’s nails, ears, and teeth. Trimming nails on a monthly basis is usually enough to keep them from growing too long. But, some dog’s nails grow more quickly than others or don’t wear down as much naturally, so you may need to
Activity Level
The Basset Hound is a playful dog that does not require a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for a Basset, but they’re also usually up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed in the cross could result in a higher-energy dog in a Basset Hound Mix. It’s important to talk to the breeder about them, so you know whether you need to prepare for a potentially high-energy dog.
Size
A fully-grown Basset Hound tends to stand 13-15 inches tall and weigh 40-65 pounds. The other parent breed could affect this and potentially result in a smaller or larger dog.
Life Span
A Basset Hound typically lives 10-12 years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect something similar in a Basset Hound Mix.