Akita Basset
The Akita Basset is a cross between the Akita and the Basset Hound. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Akita Basset. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Akita
The Akita is a large, powerful dog with a substantial build that reflects its heritage as a cold-weather working breed from the mountains of northern Japan. Males typically stand between 26 and 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 130 pounds, while females range from 24 to 26 inches and weigh 70 to 100 pounds. The breed possesses a muscular, well-proportioned frame that is slightly longer than it is tall, with heavy bone structure providing the power and endurance needed for their historic hunting roles. The chest is wide and deep, reaching to the elbow, with well-sprung ribs that contribute to the breed's impressive lung capacity and stamina. The head is massive and broad, forming a blunt triangle when viewed from above, with a short muzzle, well-defined stop, and powerful jaws. The Akita's coat is one of its most distinctive features, consisting of a thick double layer that provides excellent insulation against harsh weather conditions. The outer coat is straight, harsh, and stands somewhat off the body, while the undercoat is dense, soft, and plush. Coat length measures approximately two inches at the withers and rump, with shorter hair on the head, legs, and ears, and longer, more profuse fur on the tail. American Akitas can be any color including white, brindle, and pinto with well-defined markings, while Japanese Akitas are typically red, fawn, sesame, brindle, or pure white with the characteristic urajiro markings of cream or white coloring on the sides of the muzzle, cheeks, chest, and inner legs. Additional distinguishing features include small, dark, deeply set triangular eyes that give the breed its characteristic dignified and alert expression, and erect triangular ears that are small in relation to the head size and slightly rounded at the tips. The tail is large, full, and carried high, curling over the back in a gentle or double curl that complements the breed's balanced silhouette. The Akita's cat-like feet are tight and well-knuckled with thick pads suited for working in snow, and the overall appearance conveys strength, alertness, and nobility befitting this ancient Japanese breed.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Training an Akita requires patience, consistency, and a confident handler who can establish clear leadership without harsh methods. These intelligent dogs can learn quickly but possess an independent and sometimes stubborn streak that may cause them to question commands rather than comply eagerly. Positive reinforcement techniques work best, and training should begin early while the dog is still manageable in size. Akitas thrive when given a job to do and respond well to mental challenges that engage their sharp minds.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, represents a serious and potentially life-threatening emergency for Akitas and other large, deep-chested breeds. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to vital organs. Progressive retinal atrophy is another inherited condition that causes gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness. Akitas may also be affected by von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, and acquired myasthenia gravis, which causes muscle weakness. Regular veterinary checkups, health screening of breeding stock, and awareness of warning signs help ensure early detection and treatment of potential health issues.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a medium to large scent hound with a uniquely distinctive appearance that belies its considerable substance despite its short stature. Standing under 15 inches at the shoulder, the breed typically weighs between 40 and 80 pounds, making it one of the heaviest-boned breeds relative to its overall size. The body is long and low to the ground, supported by short, powerful legs that appear slightly crooked due to the breed's characteristic achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism that gives the Basset its distinctive silhouette. This sturdy, somewhat rectangular build was specifically developed to allow hunters on foot to follow the dog through dense underbrush while tracking game. The Basset Hound's head is large and well-proportioned, featuring a rounded skull with a pronounced occipital peak and a long, deep muzzle that provides ample room for the scenting apparatus. The breed possesses extremely long, velvety ears set low on the head that can reach beyond the tip of the nose when drawn forward, serving the practical purpose of stirring up ground scent and funneling it toward the nose. The face displays loose, wrinkled skin with pendulous lips and dewlaps, while the dark brown eyes have a soft, sad expression that has endeared the breed to generations of admirers. The slightly curved tail is carried high and acts as a visible marker when the dog is working in tall grass or brush. The Basset Hound's coat is short, smooth, and dense, providing adequate protection from brush and weather while being relatively easy to maintain. Any recognized hound color is acceptable, though the most common patterns are tricolor combinations of black, tan, and white, or red and white bicolor markings. The smooth, hard-textured coat lies close to the body and has a distinctly hound-like smell that some owners find charming while others consider a minor drawback of the breed.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Basset Hounds generally get along well with other dogs and pets, a natural consequence of their pack hunting heritage that predisposes them to accept other animals as companions rather than competitors. They communicate with a distinctive deep, melodious bark and bay that can be surprisingly loud for their size, a trait that some neighbors may find less charming than the dog's owners do. While not high-energy dogs, Basset Hounds do require regular moderate exercise to prevent the weight gain to which they are particularly prone, and they genuinely enjoy outdoor activities where they can explore scents at their own deliberate pace.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The Basset Hound's distinctive ear structure, while charming, creates a warm, moist environment that predisposes the breed to chronic ear infections requiring regular cleaning and monitoring. Primary open-angle glaucoma occurs in Basset Hounds at rates significantly higher than most other breeds, with affected dogs developing increased eye pressure that can lead to blindness if not properly managed. Wobbler syndrome, a neurological condition affecting the cervical spine, and seborrhea, an inherited skin disorder causing excessive oiliness and scaling, also occur with increased frequency in the breed. Regular veterinary checkups, weight management, and attention to the breed's specific vulnerabilities help ensure the longest and healthiest life possible.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Akita Basset may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Akita and Basset Hound to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.