Chow Hound Basset
Hybrid Breed Description
The Chow Hound Basset is a cross between the Chow Chow 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 Chow Hound Basset. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a medium to large breed with a distinctive, powerful build that immediately sets them apart from other dog breeds, standing seventeen to twenty-one inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between forty and eighty pounds, with males typically being larger and heavier than females. These dogs possess a sturdy, compact, square-shaped body structure that conveys strength and substance, with a broad, deep chest and well-sprung ribs supporting their muscular frame. Their overall appearance is lion-like, enhanced by their abundant coat and proud carriage, with a distinctive stilted gait caused by their uniquely straight hind legs that lack the typical angulation seen in most other breeds, giving them a characteristic stiff-legged walk. The breed's most recognizable and celebrated feature is their exceptionally thick double coat, which can come in two distinct types: rough and smooth. The rough coat, which is more common, features a dense, coarse outer coat standing off from the body with an incredibly thick, soft, woolly undercoat beneath, creating an impressive mane or ruff around the neck and shoulders that gives them their distinctive lion-like appearance. The smooth-coated variety has a shorter, harder, dense coat without the extensive ruffing, though it still maintains the characteristic thick undercoat. The coat comes in five accepted colors: red (ranging from light golden to deep mahogany), black, blue (a dilute of black appearing as a bluish-gray), cinnamon (also called fawn, ranging from light cream to deep cinnamon), and cream, with the solid colors being preferred in show standards. Other striking physical characteristics include the Chow Chow's unique blue-black or purple tongue, a distinctive trait they share with only a few other breeds, which extends to their lips and the inside of their mouth. Their head is large and broad with a flat skull, small triangular ears with rounded tips that sit erect on the head, and deep-set, almond-shaped dark eyes that often appear to have a somewhat scowling or frowning expression due to the skin folds and wrinkles on their face. This expression, combined with their naturally reserved demeanor, can make them appear somewhat aloof or serious, though this is simply part of their breed characteristic rather than an indication of temperament. Their tail is thick at the base and tapers toward the tip, carried in a distinctive curl over the back. The combination of their powerful build, luxurious coat, unique coloring, characteristic blue-black tongue, and dignified bearing creates an unmistakable and majestic appearance that has captivated dog enthusiasts for centuries.
Key Characteristics
The Chow Chow possesses a temperament that is often compared to that of a cat, displaying independence, dignity, aloofness, and a distinctly reserved nature that sets them apart from many other dog breeds. These dogs form deep, loyal bonds with their families and can be incredibly devoted to their chosen people, though they express their affection in subtle, understated ways rather than through exuberant displays of emotion. Chow Chows are naturally calm and quiet indoors, typically content to rest near their families and observe household activities with a dignified composure. They are not typically demanding of attention and are quite capable of entertaining themselves, though they do appreciate and seek the company of their trusted family members on their own terms. Intelligent and strong-willed, Chow Chows can be quite stubborn and independent in their thinking, often preferring to make their own decisions rather than automatically deferring to their owners' commands. This characteristic makes them more challenging to train than many breeds, requiring patient, consistent, firm but gentle guidance from owners who can establish themselves as confident leaders without resorting to harsh corrections. Early and extensive socialization is absolutely critical for Chow Chows, as without proper exposure to various people, animals, and situations during puppyhood, they can become overly suspicious, territorial, or defensive. They possess strong protective instincts and naturally serve as excellent watchdogs, remaining alert to their surroundings and wary of strangers approaching their home or family. Chow Chows typically maintain a reserved and cautious attitude toward strangers, often requiring considerable time to warm up to new people and preferring to assess situations from a distance before engaging. They are not naturally outgoing or friendly with unfamiliar individuals, and forced interactions can make them uncomfortable or defensive. With other dogs and pets, Chow Chows can be somewhat aloof or assertive, particularly with unfamiliar animals, and they may prefer to be the only pet in the household. However, when raised with other animals from puppyhood and properly socialized, they can learn to coexist peacefully. While they can be good with children in their own family, especially when raised with them, they generally do not appreciate rough handling, excessive noise, or unpredictable behavior, making them better suited to families with older, respectful children who understand how to interact appropriately with dogs. The breed's relatively low energy level means they are content with moderate daily exercise rather than requiring extensive physical activity, though mental stimulation and regular walks are important for their overall wellbeing and preventing boredom.
The Chow Chow has an average lifespan of eight to twelve years, and while many individuals live healthy lives, the breed is predisposed to several significant health conditions that potential owners should be aware of and prepared to manage. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are among the most prevalent orthopedic problems affecting Chow Chows, with studies showing that nearly half of the breed may develop elbow dysplasia and a significant percentage experiencing hip dysplasia. These conditions involve abnormal development of the respective joints, resulting in malformation, instability, pain, lameness, and progressive arthritis. The breed's substantial body weight and unique straight-legged structure can exacerbate these joint problems, making proper weight management and early intervention particularly important. Eye conditions represent another major health concern for the breed, with Chow Chows having one of the highest predispositions to glaucoma among dog breeds, a painful condition involving increased pressure within the eye that can rapidly lead to vision loss if not promptly treated. The breed is also susceptible to entropion, an inherited condition where the eyelids roll inward causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea, resulting in pain, irritation, ulceration, and potential vision damage that typically requires surgical correction. Additional eye problems include cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and due to their deep-set eyes and facial structure, they may experience chronic tearing and eye irritation requiring ongoing management. Chow Chows can also develop various other health concerns including thyroid problems, particularly hypothyroidism causing weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues. The breed may experience autoimmune conditions and allergies manifesting as skin problems, with their thick coat and skin folds potentially harboring bacterial or yeast infections if not kept clean and dry. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Their dense coat makes them highly susceptible to overheating and heat stroke, particularly in warm or humid climates, requiring careful monitoring and preventing exercise during hot weather. Some individuals may develop patellar luxation, heart disease, or respiratory problems exacerbated by their pushed-in facial structure. The breed can also be prone to a unique condition called Chow Chow alopecia or coat funk, where the coat fails to regrow properly after being clipped. Responsible breeding practices with health testing, maintaining proper weight, providing appropriate exercise without overexertion in heat, regular grooming and skin care, routine veterinary examinations, and vigilant monitoring for signs of health problems are essential for maximizing the health and comfort of these dignified, independent companions throughout their lives.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is an instantly recognizable breed characterized by their unique, low-slung appearance that combines a large, heavy body with remarkably short legs, standing no more than fifteen inches tall at the shoulder while weighing between forty and sixty-five pounds. Despite their limited height, these are substantial, heavily-boned dogs with bodies proportioned more like those of much larger breeds, creating their distinctive elongated, rectangular silhouette. Their build is sturdy and muscular with considerable substance, featuring a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and a long, level back that extends from prominent withers to a moderately rounded croup, giving them surprising strength and endurance despite their appearance. The Basset Hound's head is one of their most distinctive and endearing features, being large and well-proportioned with a broad, domed skull and pronounced occipital bone. Their face displays characteristic wrinkles and folds, particularly across the forehead and around the muzzle, which along with their drooping features creates their famously sad, soulful expression that has captivated admirers worldwide. The eyes are soft, hound-like, and slightly sunken with drooping lower lids that expose some of the red haw, typically dark brown in color and conveying a gentle, melancholic appearance. Their most remarkable feature is their extraordinarily long ears, which are set low on the head and hang well below the muzzle when pulled forward, with velvety texture and considerable length that serves to sweep scents from the ground up toward their exceptionally sensitive nose. The Basset Hound's coat is short, hard, dense, and weather-resistant, lying smooth and tight against the body without any long hair on the legs or tail, making grooming relatively straightforward despite moderate to heavy shedding. While any recognized hound coloring is acceptable in the breed standard, the most commonly seen patterns include tricolor combinations of black, tan, and white, or bicolor patterns of red and white, lemon and white, or any combination of these colors. Other physical characteristics include loose skin that forms wrinkles on the head, neck, and dewlap, heavy flews that create their distinctively droopy expression and contribute to drooling, a long, slightly curved tail carried gaily like a saber, and large, thick-padded feet that turn slightly outward to support their substantial weight. The front legs appear crooked with pronounced knuckling over, a characteristic feature of the breed that results from their chondrodysplastic dwarfism. This unique combination of physical attributes creates a dog whose appearance is both comical and dignified, conveying both power and gentleness in equal measure, making the Basset Hound one of the most immediately identifiable and beloved dog breeds in the world.
Key Characteristics
The Basset Hound possesses a gentle, easygoing, and remarkably patient temperament that makes them excellent family companions, exhibiting a calm, laid-back demeanor that is well-suited to relaxed households. These dogs are inherently friendly and sociable, typically getting along well with people of all ages, other dogs, and household pets, displaying minimal aggression and preferring peaceful coexistence to confrontation. Their pack animal heritage means they genuinely enjoy companionship and are happiest when surrounded by their family members, disliking being left alone for extended periods. Basset Hounds form strong bonds with their families and demonstrate steady, unwavering loyalty and devotion, though they express their affection in quiet, undemanding ways rather than through excessive enthusiasm. While undeniably intelligent and possessing excellent problem-solving abilities, Basset Hounds are famously independent thinkers with a significant stubborn streak that can make training challenging. Originally bred to follow scent trails without distraction from their handlers, they retain a single-minded determination when pursuing interesting smells, often appearing to completely ignore commands when their powerful nose has detected something compelling. This characteristic means they require patient, consistent training from owners who understand hound temperament and can work with their independent nature rather than against it. Positive reinforcement methods using treats and praise work best, as Bassets do not respond well to harsh corrections and may simply become more obstinate if pressured. Their laid-back attitude can sometimes be mistaken for laziness or lack of intelligence, but this is simply their natural demeanor combined with their tendency to conserve energy for tracking. Basset Hounds make wonderful family dogs and are particularly well-known for their gentle, tolerant nature with children, displaying remarkable patience with even young, boisterous kids. Their low-energy indoor demeanor means they are content to relax alongside family members, though they do possess surprising endurance and stamina when engaged in activities that interest them, particularly anything involving following scent trails. They are not effective watchdogs despite their tendency to vocalize, as they will typically bark to announce visitors but then greet strangers with friendly enthusiasm rather than suspicion or protective behavior. The breed is known for their distinctive vocalizations, including a deep, melodious bay that they use when excited or following a scent, a murmuring whine for communication, and considerable barking if bored or seeking attention. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, Basset Hounds can become nuisance barkers or develop destructive behaviors like digging. Their propensity for drooling due to their loose lips and tendency to follow their nose into mischief are considerations for potential owners, but their sweet, gentle nature and unwavering companionship make them beloved family members for those who appreciate their unique hound personality.
Basset Hounds typically have a lifespan of ten to twelve years, and while many individuals enjoy reasonably good health, the breed is predisposed to several significant health conditions related to their unique body structure and genetic heritage that owners must be prepared to manage throughout the dog's life. Intervertebral disc disease is one of the most serious concerns for Basset Hounds, as their long spinal column combined with their short legs and heavy body places enormous stress on the vertebral discs. This condition can cause disc herniation or rupture, resulting in pain, nerve damage, weakness, paralysis of the hindquarters, and may require emergency surgery. Back problems are a constant concern, and owners must take precautions to prevent jumping, excessive stair climbing, and weight gain that exacerbates spinal stress. Orthopedic problems are prevalent in the breed, with hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia being common conditions where these joints develop abnormally, causing pain, lameness, and progressive arthritis. The breed's substantial weight combined with their short, somewhat crooked legs creates significant stress on all their joints. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of position, also affects many Basset Hounds and can cause intermittent lameness or permanent disability if severe. Obesity is a particularly serious problem for this breed, as their body structure is already stressed and any excess weight dramatically increases the risk of back problems, joint damage, and other health complications. Bassets are prone to gaining weight due to their love of food and relatively low activity levels, making careful portion control and regular exercise essential. The breed is also highly susceptible to various other health conditions including ear infections, which are extremely common due to their extraordinarily long, heavy ears that hang close to the ground and trap moisture, debris, and bacteria in the ear canals. Regular, thorough ear cleaning and monitoring are essential preventive care. Basset Hounds commonly develop skin problems and infections, particularly in their facial wrinkles and skin folds where moisture and bacteria accumulate, requiring diligent hygiene. Gastric dilatation-volvulus or bloat is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists, cutting off blood supply, and requiring immediate surgical intervention. The breed may also experience eye problems including glaucoma, cherry eye, and ectropion where the lower eyelid droops outward. Additionally, Basset Hounds can develop bleeding disorders such as von Willebrand's disease, hypothyroidism affecting metabolism, allergies causing skin irritation, and heart problems as they age. Their loose lips contribute to excessive drooling and their tendency to eat indiscriminately can lead to foreign body ingestion. Responsible breeding with health testing, maintaining ideal body weight through controlled feeding and regular moderate exercise, preventive care including frequent ear cleaning and skin fold maintenance, and vigilant monitoring for signs of pain, lameness, or illness are all critical components of providing optimal care for these lovable, low-slung hounds throughout their lives.
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 Chow Hound 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 Chow Chow and Basset Hound to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.