Baskimo
The Baskimo is a cross between the American Eskimo Dog 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 Baskimo. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a stunning Nordic-type breed available in three size varieties, each sharing the same elegant proportions and striking appearance that has earned the breed its reputation as the beautiful dog. The toy variety stands nine to twelve inches at the shoulder weighing six to ten pounds, the miniature variety measures twelve to fifteen inches at ten to twenty pounds, and the standard variety reaches fifteen to nineteen inches standing and weighs eighteen to thirty-five pounds. All varieties display a compact, well-balanced build that is slightly longer than tall, combining athletic capability with aesthetic beauty that captures attention wherever they go. The head is distinctly Nordic in type, featuring a wedge-shaped skull that is slightly crowned and a muzzle approximately equal in length to the skull, creating harmonious proportions. Small, erect, triangular ears with slightly blunted tips stand alert atop the head, framing the face and enhancing the breed's perpetually attentive expression. The eyes are dark, slightly oval, and set well apart, projecting a keen, intelligent expression that suggests both alertness and friendliness. The lips, nose, and eye rims form distinctive black points that contrast dramatically against the white face, while the eyelashes are characteristically snow-white. The neck is well-carried and blends smoothly into a level back and moderately deep chest. The American Eskimo Dog's magnificent double coat is the breed's crowning glory, consisting of a dense, short undercoat topped by a longer outer coat of straight guard hairs that stand off from the body creating substantial volume. A pronounced ruff around the neck and shoulders creates a lion-like mane that is particularly impressive in males and contributes to the breed's majestic appearance. The legs display significant feathering, and the heavily plumed tail curls gracefully over the back, lying close to the body. The coat color is predominantly pure white or white with biscuit cream markings, contributing to the breed's elegant appearance. The gait is bold, energetic, and smooth, covering ground with efficiency.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While friendly and outgoing with family members and people they know well, American Eskimo Dogs typically display initial reserve toward strangers, taking time to warm up and assess newcomers before accepting them into their circle. This natural watchfulness makes them excellent alert dogs who will enthusiastically announce visitors with their distinctive voice, though they are never aggressive without significant provocation. Early and ongoing socialization helps ensure this cautious nature remains appropriate watchfulness rather than developing into excessive wariness or fearfulness. The breed generally does well with children who treat them respectfully and can coexist peacefully with other pets when properly introduced, though supervision is recommended around very small animals that might trigger prey drive.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Epilepsy occurs at higher rates in American Eskimo Dogs than in the general dog population, causing recurring seizures that typically first appear between six months and three years of age. The diagnosis is made after other potential causes of seizures have been eliminated through thorough testing. Most epileptic dogs live normal, active lives with appropriate medication management and regular veterinary monitoring. Patellar luxation affects some individuals, causing the kneecap to slip out of its normal position and resulting in intermittent lameness and eventual arthritis. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, where blood supply to the femoral head deteriorates causing bone cell death, is another orthopedic concern seen in the breed. Additional health considerations include allergies, chronic tear staining, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and cataracts in older dogs. Owners should carefully monitor weight as the breed tends toward obesity if overfed.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive low-slung body that stands between thirteen and fifteen inches at the shoulder while weighing forty to sixty-five pounds. This breed possesses an extraordinarily heavy bone structure relative to its size, giving it a substantial and solid appearance despite its short stature. The body is notably long in proportion to its height, creating the characteristic elongated silhouette that distinguishes this breed from other hounds. Short and powerful legs were specifically developed for tracking game through dense underbrush while allowing hunters to follow on foot at a comfortable walking pace. The most recognizable features of the Basset Hound include its remarkably long, velvety ears that can reach well past the nose when pulled forward, helping to sweep scent particles toward the powerful nose which ranks second only to the Bloodhound in scenting capability. The deeply sunken eyes contribute to the characteristic sad and soulful expression that has endeared this breed to generations of owners around the world. Loose, elastic skin creates prominent wrinkles across the forehead and face, while substantial dewlaps and pendulous lips often result in drooling, particularly after eating or drinking. The skull is domed with a pronounced occipital bone, and the muzzle is deep and heavy with large, open nostrils designed for exceptional scenting ability in the field. The Basset Hound's coat is short, dense, and smooth with a texture that provides excellent protection against harsh terrain, thorny underbrush, and inclement weather conditions. The skin beneath the coat is loose and supple, offering additional protection during work in challenging environments. The coat comes in a variety of color combinations including the classic tricolor pattern of black, tan, and white, as well as red and white, lemon and white, mahogany and white, and various other recognized hound color patterns. Any traditional hound coloration is acceptable according to breed standards. The tail is long and slightly curved, set as a continuation of the spine and carried up with a gentle saber-like curve when the dog is in motion, serving as a visible flag when working in tall vegetation.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While generally quiet and undemanding during indoor time, Basset Hounds possess a distinctive deep bay and melodious howl that they use liberally when bored, lonely, on an interesting scent trail, or alerting to something noteworthy in their environment. This vocalization can carry considerable distances and may concern close neighbors in apartment or townhouse situations. These dogs have moderate energy requirements but benefit greatly from daily exercise to prevent obesity, a significant and common concern for the breed. Their social nature makes them poor guard dogs as they tend to greet everyone warmly, viewing strangers as potential friends rather than threats, though they will certainly announce visitors.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions are particularly prevalent in Basset Hounds, with glaucoma, especially primary open-angle glaucoma, occurring at significantly higher rates than in most other breeds. Cherry eye, ectropion, entropion, and other eyelid abnormalities are also common due to the loose facial skin and heavy facial structure characteristic of the breed. The long, pendulous ears create a warm, moist environment prone to chronic ear infections requiring diligent weekly cleaning and monitoring for early signs of problems. Thrombopathia, an inherited bleeding disorder, and von Willebrand's disease are genetic conditions for which testing is available and recommended before breeding. Hypothyroidism and patellar luxation also occur in the breed. With proper care and weight management, Basset Hounds typically live ten to twelve years.
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 Baskimo 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 American Eskimo Dog and Basset Hound to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.