Bassugg

The Bassugg is a cross between the Basset Hound and the Pug. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Bassugg. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Basset Hound

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a medium-sized scenthound that stands between 13 and 15 inches at the withers, with the breed standard specifying height should not exceed 15 inches. Despite their relatively short stature, Basset Hounds are remarkably heavy dogs, typically weighing between 40 and 65 pounds, with some individuals reaching up to 80 pounds depending on sex and bloodline. This breed possesses the heaviest bone structure relative to body size of any dog breed, a characteristic that contributes to their substantial, low-to-the-ground appearance. Their body is long and rectangular in proportion, supported by short, powerful legs that have a distinctive crooked appearance due to a genetic condition called osteochondrodysplasia, which is responsible for their characteristic dwarfism. The Basset Hound's head is large and well-proportioned with a distinctively domed skull and a pronounced occipital bone at the back. Their face features deeply wrinkled brows that give them a perpetually sad or worried expression, along with loose, pendulous skin and a prominent dewlap of loose skin hanging from the neck. The breed's most recognizable features include extremely long, low-set ears that hang well below the jawline and can reach past the nose when pulled forward. Their eyes are soft and slightly sunken, typically dark brown in color, conveying a gentle and appealing expression. The coat is short, dense, smooth, and hard-textured, providing excellent protection during outdoor activities. Basset Hounds come in any recognized hound color, with the most common being tricolor combinations of black, white, and tan, as well as red and white or lemon and white patterns. The breed standard specifically excludes merle and brindle colorations. They have a long, curved tail that is typically carried upright like a saber when the dog is moving, and their deep chest and substantial limbs give them a powerful appearance despite their low stature.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Basset Hounds have moderate energy levels and are content with daily walks and moderate exercise, after which they happily settle into relaxation mode. They are known for their vocal nature and possess a deep, melodious howl called a bay that they use to communicate, particularly when tracking scent or expressing boredom. While calm indoors and adaptable to various living situations including apartments, they do require regular outdoor time to satisfy their scenting instincts. Their gentle patience makes them excellent companions for children, and they typically coexist peacefully with other dogs and household pets.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Basset Hounds are prone to several eye conditions, with primary open-angle glaucoma being a significant genetic concern linked to a mutation in the ADAMTS17 gene. Their long, pendulous ears create warm, moist environments that are ideal for bacterial and yeast growth, making ear infections extremely common in the breed. Regular ear cleaning and inspection are essential preventive measures. Additional health concerns include obesity, which these food-motivated dogs are highly prone to, as well as thrombopathia, a bleeding disorder, and Lafora disease, a progressive neurological condition. Skin fold dermatitis can occur in the facial wrinkles if not kept clean and dry.
Learn More About The Basset Hound

Pug

Pug

The Pug is a small, compact toy breed that stands between 10 and 13 inches tall at the shoulder, with most individuals measuring between 10 and 11 inches. Their ideal weight falls between 14 and 18 pounds, creating a square, sturdy profile that embodies the Latin phrase multum in parvo, meaning a lot in a little. Despite their small size, Pugs are surprisingly muscular and solidly built with a cobby body that is short, thick-set, and well-proportioned. Their compact frame and substantial bone structure give them a weightier feel than their dimensions might suggest, and they carry themselves with a confident, dignified carriage. The Pug's head is one of their most distinctive features, being large, round, and massive in proportion to their body. Their face is characterized by a flat, wrinkled forehead with deep furrows, including the highly prized prince mark, a distinct wrinkle pattern that forms a shape resembling the Chinese character for prince. Their short, square, blunt muzzle is pushed in but should not be upturned. The Pug's eyes are large, round, dark, and prominently protruding, conveying an expression of gentle concern and curiosity. Their ears are small and soft, coming in two varieties: button ears that fold forward to cover the ear opening, or rose ears that fold back to reveal the inner ear, with button ears being preferred in the show ring. The Pug's coat is short, fine, smooth, and glossy with a soft texture, covering a double-layered structure that results in moderate to heavy year-round shedding. The breed comes in four recognized colors: fawn, apricot fawn, silver fawn, and black, with all fawn variations featuring a contrasting black mask that covers the muzzle and extends around the eyes. Their tail is another hallmark feature, tightly curled over the hip in one or two loops, with a double curl being highly desired. This corkscrew tail results from a spinal deviation in the tail vertebrae. The overall impression is of a compact, symmetrical dog with excellent muscle tone and a characteristic rolling gait.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament While Pugs are intelligent dogs, they can display a stubborn streak during training that requires patience and creative motivation. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and are eager to please once they understand what is expected of them. Pugs are sensitive to their owner's emotions and moods, often providing comfort when their humans are distressed. However, their strong attachment to their families means they can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Pugs are generally not excessive barkers but will alert their owners to visitors or unusual occurrences. Their loving, adaptable nature makes them excellent companions for individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Pugs are significantly more prone to obesity than most other breeds, with studies showing they are over two times more likely to be overweight compared to mixed-breed dogs. This tendency toward weight gain exacerbates their breathing difficulties and puts additional strain on their joints. Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation are common orthopedic issues in the breed. The tightly curled tail can cause spinal problems including hemivertebrae, a malformation of the spine. Their facial wrinkles and skin folds require regular cleaning to prevent bacterial and yeast infections that thrive in these warm, moist areas. Pugs have very limited heat tolerance and can quickly develop heatstroke, requiring owners to take precautions during warm weather.
Learn More About The Pug

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 Bassugg 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 Pug to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.