Basschshund
The Basschshund is a cross between the Basset Hound and the Dachshund. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Basschshund. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a medium to large-sized scent hound with a distinctive low-slung, heavy-boned build that belies its considerable substance. Standing only 13 to 15 inches at the withers yet weighing between 40 and 65 pounds, this breed possesses a uniquely elongated body set on short, powerful legs. The short stature results from a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia, which gives the breed its characteristic appearance. The body is long and full with well-sprung ribs, supported by large, heavy-boned legs with massive paws that point straight ahead or turn slightly outward. The chest is deep and full, providing ample lung capacity for extended tracking work. The breed displays remarkable bone density, being heavier in bone pound for pound than any other breed. The Basset Hound's head is one of its most recognizable features, being large and well-proportioned with a distinctively domed skull and prominent occipital bone. The face displays loose, elastic skin that forms deep wrinkles, particularly around the brow and eyes, contributing to the breed's trademark melancholy expression. The ears are extraordinarily long, set low on the head just below eye level, with leather soft enough to reach well beyond the muzzle tip. These pendulous ears serve a functional purpose, sweeping scents from the ground toward the powerful nose, which contains approximately 220 million scent receptors. The eyes are soft, sad, and slightly sunken, showing a prominent haw, and the flews of the upper lip hang substantially below the lower jaw. The coat is short, dense, and smooth with a hard texture that provides weather protection during outdoor tracking. Any recognized hound color is acceptable, though the most common pattern is tricolor consisting of black, white, and tan markings. Bicolored lemon and white combinations are also frequently seen, along with red and white variations. The tail, often called a stern, is long and tapering with a slight upward curve carried sabre-fashion when the dog is moving, featuring coarse hair on the underside. The white tip on many tails serves as a visible flag when the dog works in tall grass or dense cover.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Basset Hounds are known for being vocal dogs with a deep, melodious bark and distinctive howl called a bay. This tendency toward vocalization, combined with their exceptional scenting ability, reflects their hunting heritage and original purpose. They can be persistent diggers and may attempt to follow interesting scents if given the opportunity to escape a yard. While generally calm and sometimes described as lazy, they are actually quite tenacious and possess remarkable stamina when engaged in scent work, play, or walks. Their easygoing nature makes them adaptable to various living situations.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions affecting Basset Hounds include glaucoma, particularly primary open-angle glaucoma which is inherited in the breed, as well as cherry eye and ectropion caused by loose facial skin. The long ears require regular cleaning to prevent infections from moisture and debris buildup. Genetic conditions include thrombopathia, a bleeding disorder, and Lafora disease, a form of progressive myoclonic epilepsy found primarily in certain lines. DNA tests are available for several inherited conditions, and responsible breeders screen their dogs before breeding. The typical lifespan ranges from 10 to 13 years with proper care.
Dachshund
The Dachshund is a small, long-bodied hound with distinctively short legs, bred specifically for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals. The breed comes in two sizes: standard Dachshunds typically weigh between 16 and 32 pounds and stand 8 to 9 inches tall, while miniatures weigh 11 pounds or less and stand 5 to 6 inches at the shoulder. The elongated body, roughly one and a half to two times the height at the shoulders in length, combined with short, sturdy legs gives the breed its iconic appearance. The muscular frame features a prominent breastbone, well-sprung ribs, and a moderately long back that is level and straight without excessive sagging or roach. The Dachshund's head is elongated and tapers uniformly toward the tip of the nose when viewed from above, with a slightly arched skull and a well-defined stop. The muzzle is long and somewhat narrow with powerful jaws designed for grasping prey underground. The ears are set near the top of the head, moderately long, rounded, and hang flat against the cheeks. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark in color with an energetic, pleasant expression. The neck is long and muscular, carried proudly, leading into well-laid shoulders. The tail continues the spine line without excessive curve, though it may be carried slightly elevated when the dog is active. Three coat varieties exist within the breed, each with distinct characteristics. Smooth Dachshunds have short, shiny, sleek coats lying close to the body. Longhaired Dachshunds display soft, glistening, slightly wavy hair that is longer under the neck and on the chest, ears, behind the legs, and the underside of the tail. Wirehaired Dachshunds have a short, thick, rough outer coat with a finer, softer undercoat, along with a beard and bushy eyebrows. Colors include red, black and tan, chocolate and tan, and various patterns including dapple, brindle, and piebald.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Dachshunds are notably vocal dogs, quick to bark at visitors, unusual sounds, or anything they perceive as noteworthy. While this makes them decent watchdogs, excessive barking can be a challenge if not addressed through training. The breed can be difficult to housetrain, requiring patience and consistency. Despite their stubbornness, Dachshunds are intelligent and can excel in obedience with positive, reward-based training methods. They generally do well with other dogs, particularly other Dachshunds, though their boldness may lead them to challenge much larger dogs. Supervision around very small children is advisable due to their long backs and susceptibility to injury.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Beyond spinal issues, Dachshunds face other health concerns. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of position, occurs in the breed, particularly in miniatures. Progressive retinal atrophy can cause gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. Dental disease is common due to the narrow jaw, requiring regular dental care. Miniature wirehaired Dachshunds have elevated risk for Lafora disease, a form of progressive myoclonic epilepsy with genetic testing available. Other conditions include epilepsy, degenerative mitral valve disease, narcolepsy, and various cancers including mast cell tumors. With proper care and weight management, healthy Dachshunds typically live 12 to 16 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 Basschshund 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 Basset Hound and Dachshund to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.