Basset Hound Dachshund Mix: The Mini Pupper with Big Ears
Have you always wanted to have a fearless dog but never had a spacious backyard or enough room in your home to keep one? If that sounds like you, make sure to check out the Basset Hound Dachshund mix!
These fellows are the perfect combo of a mighty Basset Hound breed and the inquisitive Doxie! They have exceptional prey skills and will guard you with their life—all from the comfort of the beanbag in your small apartment! As alert as they are, they won’t mind lounging around until they hear a call for action.
If you are looking for more than a cute toy dog, the Dachshund could be your ideal dog. Refer to our detailed guide on this Wiener cross, and you will know exactly what to expect with this laid-back guardian!
Three Reasons Not to Adopt the Dachshund and Basset Hound Mix
Although puppies are so cute that they are nearly impossible to resist, you have to remind yourself to use common sense when choosing the right breed. Not all dog varieties will be a good fit for you, and before you give one a place in your home, make sure you learn as much about them as you can.
In line with that, check whether having the Basset Hound Dachshund mix would work for you. Here are some of the Basschshund dark secrets:
- They’ll use up your bath salts and clog your vacuum cleaner. Unfortunately, not because they are mischievous. They shed, and they smell. To keep them nice and clean, you’ll need to brush them several times a week and bathe them whenever their natural skin oils start smelling nasty. The question is—are you ready to commit?
- They may antagonize your neighbors. Both of the parent breeds are hound dogs and are loud and yappy. If barking is not something your neighbors would tolerate, spare yourself the unnecessary headaches and adopt a quieter breed.
- They will train you. This is one stubborn pooch! If you show you’re lenient and bend to their will, they will never obey you. Play your cards right and show them who the boss is, and you will have a chance at teaching your Basschshund a trick or two.
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Three Reasons to Get Basset Hound Dachshund Mix Puppies
In case what you read above didn’t shake your intention of adopting a Basschshund, we are proud of you! Here are the reasons why you’ll enjoy living with a Dachshund and Hound dog mix:
- They won’t drain the life out of you. These pups are famous for being pretty laid-back, even lazy. They don’t exert much activity time, making them ideal for busy owners.
- They’ve got your back. Dachshunds are scent hounds, so you can sleep soundly, knowing that they’ll protect you day in and day out. They do have quite a resonant bark, but look at it from the bright side—it is an effective hindrance to thieves. These fellows will sense and alert you of visitors and intruders way before they reach your door!
- Small apartment? No problem. Dachshunds (and their mixed breeds) are among the best city dog breeds. Although this cross is medium-sized, they don’t need a spacious home to be perfectly happy!
The Basschshund Ancestry
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds were originally designed in France to hunt small game—primarily hares but also pheasants, squirrels, and rabbits. Larger dogs were even effective at capturing foxes and deer. These purebred dogs are natural trackers, and even their crossbred offspring retain that trait. They were made to have a loud and deep bark, which was essential to signal the owners of their catch.
Bassets are lovable and playful, and they get along with humans and their children, too. That has earned these pups a spot on Alpha Paw’s list of the best dog breeds to adopt.
Although they were bred in the early 1800s, they weren’t officially recognized by The American Kennel Club (AKC) until 1885. There aren’t many Basset hybrids, though — but we love the Basset Hound Beagle mix!
Dachshund
This purebred sausage dog came from Germany and was initially used for hunting badgers and other domestic animals that devastated the farmer’s crops. They have short legs and lean, elongated bodies that once enabled them to sneak into their prey’s lair and catch or chase it outside.
Dachshunds hold the enviable 12th spot on the American Kennel Club’s Most Popular Dog Breeds list, which testifies to their amiability. They are also quite easy to keep, although not as easy to control. They are renowned for their stubborn character, which makes training hard but also contributes to their charm. They were adored by Picasso, as well — a fact that speaks more than words.
Doxies, as they are endearingly referred to, were also recognized as a breed in 1885 by the AKC, just like the Basset Hound. The Basschshund can, therefore, boast ancestry with an exceptionally long-standing tradition.
If you want to know more about these pooches, we have a rundown on the facts you should know about Dachshunds and an in-depth Dachshund breed guide in case you are interested in every single detail on the famous Wiener dog.
The Physical Characteristics of the Basset Hound and Dachshund Mix
The Basset Dachshund mix can come in many shapes and sizes. It all depends on which parent they take after more. Most of the time, they’ll inherit the long Wiener torso and will strut gams slightly longer than that of their Doxie parent.
Basschshunds are dogs of medium size and tend to inherit the heavy Basset bones. Their tails are long and erect, and their ears trailing and lengthy. They have long snouts and often retain the distinctive white blaze Bassets are famous for. Basset Dachshunds are usually bred from short-haired Doxies, so they have short, smooth coats.
| Weight | 25–45 pounds |
| Height | 6–11 inches |
| Size | Medium |
| Coat type | Short, smooth, oily; medium density |
| Coat color | White, brown, golden, tan, black, grey, chestnut, usually bi-colored and tri-colored |
| Shedding | Medium to high |
| Eyes | Black, brown, or hazel |
| Nose | Long and rounded; leather or chocolate |
| Ears | Long and floppy or drooping |
| Temperament | Alert, clever, relaxed, jovial, strong-willed, loyal, with a hunting instinct but somewhat lazy |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Kid-friendly | Yes, but supervision is needed with toddlers and small children |
| New owner friendly | Yes, if introduced gradually |
| Breed recognition |
The Personality of the Dachshund and Basset Hound Dog
These pups are always on alert and have a sharp sense of smell. This means they’ll bark when they hear someone approaching or catch the scent of an unfamiliar animal. They won’t bark at every fly on the wall but will whenever there’s something to report to their humans. Their woof has a loud, resounding pitch that is unlikely to thrill the typical neighbor.
The Dachshund and Basset Hound mix is notoriously independent, and training them can be quite a feat (ensure you avoid making these dog training mistakes). Otherwise, they are brave and will protect their owners with their lives. They are initially wary of strangers but warm up to them quickly.
Although they derive from hunting breeds, they are quite laid-back and, at times, lazy. They love to snooze during the day, but you must trade their beauty sleep for daily walks as they have a predisposition to obesity.
If they feel bored or neglected, they can become trouble-makers and start chewing on your furniture or scratching your walls and floors. Try to tire them out by walking them every day, and devote some of your attention to playtime and cuddling to keep them happy.
What Does the Dachshund Basset Hound Like to Eat?
If there ever was a breed that could eat its weight in kibble, it has got to be the Basset Hound Dachshund mix!
These fellows don’t know when they’ve had enough, so you have to oversee their portions. They don’t need more than 1.5 to 2.5 cups a day, depending on their size and activity level. To make it easier on their tummies, divide it into two or three meals a day.
Avoid giving them a lot of snacks and treats, as they don’t know when to stop munching. We also recommend staying away from these worst dry dog food choices as they are not nearly as nutritious and healthy as your pup needs them to be.
Your dog’s dietary requirements don’t only depend on their size but also change with their age. Ask your pup’s vet for any further tips you may need, and adjust your buddy’s diet accordingly.
For example, while your dog is still a puppy, they need enough nutrients to support their growth and meet their energy demands. You could go for one of the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best dry dog food. Your adult pet will undoubtedly relish our best canned dog food. When they get old and wrinkly, these are some of the best senior dry dog food options to give your dog.
Is the Basset Dachshund Mix a Good Family Pet?
The Dachshund Basset Hound mix is a terrific addition to any family. They don’t require much fuss and are splendid companions for singles, couples, or seniors. They are also suitable for first-time owners, so long as they can find their way around training these obstinate puppies properly. Here are some handy care tips for new dog owners.
Bassets are fantastic with children, but the Dachshund genes in this pup merit a watchful eye just in case, especially while you are still getting to know your new buddy. Once you are familiar with the character of your dog, you will know exactly how trustworthy they are with kids. If you want to be on the safe side, here are the breeds that are perfect for families with small children.
You should be careful when introducing an adult Basschshund to tiny dogs, cats, or any other pets you may have. These fellows have a keen prey instinct and relish chasing small animals. If you get them as a puppy, socialize them early to hinder their hunting drive.
Will I Be Able to Train the Dachshund Basset Mix?
The Basset Hound Dachshund mix puppies are usually somewhat obstinate and tend to resist training. To motivate them to participate, keep the training sessions short and make them interesting by using the pup’s favorite toys.
Rewards are also excellent motivators during obedience training. Remember to go easy on snacks and treats, as food is one of the Basschshund’s weak spots. They can get chubby quickly, which can be detrimental to their health.
Instead, try to put on a show whenever they get something right and make sure to praise and pat them often. Reserve the scrumptious treats for when they reach special milestones. Here are the best dog treat brands you can use for that purpose and the worst dog treat brands to avoid at all costs.
The Dachshund’s stubborn streak will drive their mixed breeds as well. Learn everything there is to learn about training and potty training the Wiener dog. Their propensity for doing things on their own terms can make it hard for them to train, even with the rewards. You will need a firm hand with this cross. Be consistent, patient, and determined. Establish yourself as an authority, and this hound mix will learn to obey your commands. Here are some of the best ways to train your puppy in case you need some assistance with that.
What can you do if your pup has the habit of chasing after other animals but hasn’t been properly taught to obey yet? The best thing to do is to keep them on a tight leash when you take them to a park or another public place.
Is the Dachshund Basset Hound Mix a Healthy Breed?
The best way to ensure your pooch is the spitting image of health is to take them to timely checkups with the vet. The second best way is to inform yourself of the possible health concerns your pup could develop:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease. IVDD is a common ailment in Dachshunds (one in four Doxies develop this back issue), but it is not unheard of in Basset Hounds, either. To prevent it from appearing in their mixed breed, avoid strenuous exercise and excessive jumping of your pup. Here’s how to keep your dog’s joints healthy
- Ear infections. Keep your furry buddy’s ears clean and dry to prevent yeast and bacteria outbreaks.
- Obesity. Obesity can lead to numerous cardiovascular issues, but with this breed, it is also detrimental to their backs, legs, and joints in general.
- Hip Dysplasia. If the dog’s hip socket is deformed, it could lead to arthritis of the hip and lameness. The vet will scan the dog and evaluate the situation.
- Bloat. Inappropriate diet, overeating, overexerting, stress, and genetic factors are usually blamed for the onset of bloat. Whatever the cause, this condition can have fatal consequences if not recognized in time. If your pooch seems congested, their tummy is swollen, or they try to retch to no avail, take them to the vet asap.
- Canine Cushing’s Disease. Canine Cushing’s Disease, aka hyperadrenocorticism, means that your dog’s body is overproducing cortisol. Usually, this is the result of a benign pituitary gland tumor. If your pup is middle-aged or old and is drinking lots of water and losing weight, sound the alarm and ring for the doctor.
These doggos are no strangers to seizures and skin issues.
| Major concerns | Minor concerns | Occasional tests |
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Does the Basset Hound Dachshund Need a Lot of Grooming?
Although the Dachshund Basset mix is not among the top 10 worst shedding dog breeds, they still shed a lot and need proper grooming. Depending on which parent they inherit the coat from, they will shed moderately or highly. Keep their fur neat and free of dead hairs by brushing it once or twice a week, and be prepared to do it even more often during the shedding seasons. Here are more tips on how to take care of a Doxie or their crossbreeds.
The natural oils found in the Basschshund’s coat are precious. Not only do they keep the hair looking shiny, but they also preserve the skin and protect it from infection and inflammation. Only bathe your Basset Hound and Dachshund mix when absolutely necessary (about once a month), and make sure to use a gentle and natural dog shampoo. If your pooch takes after its Basset ancestor, it could also become rather smelly, which would call for more frequent frothy times.
You need to give your puppy’s droopy ears a lot of attention. When you give your dog a bath, make sure not to let water get inside. Since your pup’s big, floppy ears don’t get enough air circulation, they could get a yeast or bacterial infection.
In case you’d like to keep your floors sleek and shiny, cut your pooch’s nails every two to three weeks. It will also mean a lot for your dog’s paddle-shaped feet.
Keep your Dachshund Basset Hound’s teeth strong and healthy by brushing them twice a week. You could also use some of the top 10 best dog dental chews instead.
| Brushing frequency | Brushes for the Basset Dachshund Mix |
| 1–3 times a week, depending on how much the pup sheds |
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How Active Is the Dachshund and Hound Dog Mix?
As a rule, Basschshunds are not too energetic, and they don’t need much activity. That makes them suitable for busy owners who cannot spare several hours every day to walk their dogs.
The amount of exercise will depend on the pups themselves. If they take after the somewhat lazy Basset, they will be perfectly happy with 30-minute walks, but if they turn out more like their lively Dachshund parent, they will wear you out and spend up to 90 minutes roaming the woods or the park.
Even if you get a pup that is a verified couch potato, make sure not to skip their daily walks as they can gain weight quickly. Excess weight puts them at risk of injuring their backs, legs, elbows, and hips.
In line with their proclivity for back and joint problems, you should limit their climbing on tall surfaces or go up and down the stairs. Don’t allow them to jump from a height—they have tiny legs to support their hefty bodies, so even jumping from a couch is too risky for them. If your pup has a propensity for lounging on the living room sofa, you could get an aid like a PawRamp to help them climb on and off furniture safely.
| Activity level | Recommended miles/day | Activity minutes/day |
| Low to Medium | 2–4 | 30–90 |
There Is More Where the Basschshund Came From!
Are you in love with Doxie mixes? If all the Dachshund memes are anything to go by, so is the rest of the world! Here are more adorable Wiener hybrids for you to feast your eyes on! And if you want to show off how much you love your Sausage doggo, get yourself a proper Dachshund gift for the world to see!
FAQs: Basset Hound Dachshund Mix – The Mini Pupper with Big Ears
Q1: What is a Basset Hound Dachshund Mix, and what is it commonly known as?
A: The Basset Hound Dachshund Mix, affectionately known as the ‘Basschshund,’ is a charming crossbreed that combines the unique traits of the Basset Hound and Dachshund breeds.
Q2: What are the typical traits of a Basset Hound Dachshund Mix?
A: The Basschshund often exhibits a delightful blend of characteristics, including a compact size, distinctive ears, and a friendly, affectionate temperament.
Q3: How much exercise does a Basset Hound Dachshund Mix require?
A: Basschshunds benefit from regular exercise, including walks and playtime, tailored to their size and energy levels.
Q4: Is the Basset Hound Dachshund Mix good for children and pets?
A: Basschshunds are known for their friendly and adaptable nature, making them suitable companions for families with children and other pets.
Q5: Why do Basset Hounds have long ears?
A: Basset Hounds have long ears that serve a functional purpose. The length and shape help trap scents, directing them toward the nose and enhancing their keen sense of smell during hunting.
Q6: How bad do Basset Hounds shed, and what is the grooming routine for a Basschshund?
A: Basset Hounds are moderate shedders, and the shedding pattern may carry over to a Basset Hound Dachshund Mix. Regular brushing and grooming are essential to manage shedding and maintain a healthy coat.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dachshund
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basset_Hound
- Jensen, V. F., and K. A. Christensen. “Inheritance of Disc Calcification in the Dachshund.” Journal of Veterinary Medicine Series A, vol. 47, no. 6, 2000, pp. 331–340., doi:10.1046/j.1439-0442.2000.00297.x.
- Beauchesne, Ryan. Crusoe, the Celebrity Dachshund: Adventures of the Wiener Dog Extraordinaire. Griffin Publishing, 2015.
