Have you heard of the Basset Hound Pitbull mix? This rare and charming mixed breed is gaining popularity for its impressive appearance and personality.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover every essential aspect of the Basset Hound Pitbull mix — from its origin and history to its size, weight, temperament, and lifespan.
To begin with, let’s take a look at an overview of the breed.
Breed Overview
Height: | 15 – 19 inches |
Weight: | 40 – 60 pounds |
Lifespan: | 12 – 16 years |
Coat Colors: | Bicolor or tricolor combinations of black, brown, gray, white, blue, mahogany, tan, and red |
Temperament: | Affectionate, patient, gentle |
Suitable for: | Active owners; families with young children; experienced owners |
What Is a Basset Hound Pitbull Mix?
A Basset Hound Pitbull mix is a crossbreed between a Basset Hound and an American Pitbull Terrier. This hybrid is known for its friendly and affectionate personality and distinctive appearance. However, despite its increasing popularity, it is not recognized by major kennel organizations.
As a crossbreed, the Pitbull Basset Hound mix exhibits a wide range of physical traits and characteristics, with each dog being unique.
One of the key reasons for the Basset Hound Pitbull mix’s popularity is its gentle and patient temperaments. It is generally well-behaved around children, making them ideal family pets.
The Basset Hound Pitbull mix is not recognized as an official breed by major kennel organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Canadian Kennel Club (CKC).
Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Origin and History
The Basset Hound Pitbull mix’s origin and history are not well-documented, but understanding the backgrounds of its parent breeds can provide some insight into its characteristics.
Both parent breeds have a rich history and have been bred for specific purposes.
The Basset Hound is a French breed that originated in the 16th century. It was bred to hunt small games like rabbits and hares due to its exceptional sense of smell and its ability to track scents.
The name Basset Hound is derived from the French word “bas” which means “low,” referring to its short legs and long body.
Basset Hounds were officially recognized by the AKC in 1885. They are known for their droopy ears, sad expression, and easygoing nature.
The Pitbull Terrier, also known as the American Pitbull Terrier, has a more controversial history. Pitbulls were originally bred in England in the 19th century for blood sports like bull-baiting and dog fighting.
When these practices were outlawed, Pitbulls were brought to America, where they were used as catch dogs for hunting. They eventually became farm dogs and family pets as well.
Despite the Basset Hound Pitbull mix’s limited documented history, it is an intriguing crossbreed with both the Basset Hound’s easygoing nature and the Pitbull’s strength and loyalty.
Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Appearance
The Basset Hound Pitbull mix has a muscular body, short legs, and a long body like the Basset Hound, while also having a head and a stronger jaw like the Pitbull Terrier.
Basset Hound Pitbull mixes typically have smooth, short coats that can come in various colors, such as black, brown, gray, white, blue, mahogany, tan, red, or combinations of these colors.
They can inherit the droopy ears of the Basset Hound, which can give them an endearing and sad expression.
Their muscular body and strong jaw can make them intimidating, but their easygoing nature can balance out their appearance.
To help you visualize what this hybrid looks like, here is Wallie, a one-year-old Basset Hound Pitbull mix:
Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Size and Weight
Typically, the Basset Hound Pitbull mix weighs anywhere between 40 and 60 pounds and stands between 15 and 19 inches tall at the shoulder.
However, the size and weight of the Basset Hound Pitbull mix can vary depending on the dominant traits inherited from the parent breeds.
But since both parent breeds of the Basset Hound Pitbull mix are medium-sized dogs, the resulting puppy will likely be a medium-sized dog as well.
While their appearance may vary, their size generally falls within the mentioned range.
Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Temperament and Personality
The Basset Hound Pitbull mix is a unique and interesting hybrid that combines the temperament traits of both the Basset Hound and the Pitbull.
While each dog’s personality may vary, some common traits are typically associated with this mix.
Generally, the Basset Hound Pitbull mix is known to be loyal, friendly, and affectionate. They are social dogs and enjoy being around their human family.
However, it’s important to note that the Pitbull Terrier has a reputation for aggression, which can be a concern for some owners. Socialization and proper training are crucial to ensure they do not display such behavior.
Basset Hound Pitbull mixes also have high energy levels, which require daily exercise and playtime. They are also intelligent dogs and benefit from mental stimulation through training and interactive play.
Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
The lifespan of the Basset Hound Pitbull mix typically falls within the range of 12 to 16 years, which is relatively long compared to its parent breeds.
Due to their diverse gene pool, crossbreeds like the Basset Hound Pitbull mix tend to have fewer genetic health problems than purebreds. But they potentially inherit health issues from their parent breeds.
Some of the health problems that the Basset Hounds Pitbull mix may inherit from its parents include the following:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a common health issue that the Basset Hound Pitbull mix may inherit from both parent breeds. Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint fails to develop properly, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Allergies: Basset Hound Pitbull mixes can develop allergies that cause excessive scratching and itching, either from food or the environment. To avoid this, feed them a high-quality diet without any additives or fillers and monitor their behavior for any symptoms.
- Ear Problems: Ear problems can be caused by numerous factors such as allergies, ear infections, or ear mites. Symptoms of common ear problems may include whining, scratching, and head shaking.
- Glaucoma: Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes increased pressure within the eye, leading to eye pain and blindness if left untreated. Signs of glaucoma include redness in the eye, cloudy appearance, and dilated pupil.
It is important for owners to be aware of these potential health issues and to take the necessary precautions to keep their Basset Hound Pitbull mix healthy.
How to Take Care of Your Pitbull Basset Hound Mix
To take care of your Pitbull Basset Hound mix, it’s important to understand its unique needs. While they can be relatively easy to care for, there are some things you should keep in mind.
This includes ensuring that your dog receives a well-balanced diet, proper grooming and hygiene to maintain its health and appearance, and enough exercise to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated.
Food and Diet
The Basset Hound Pitbull mix, like any other dog, requires a balanced diet to maintain good health and energy levels. To ensure optimal nutrition, its diet should consist of high-quality protein and low carbohydrates.
It is recommended to feed your Basset Hound Pitbull mix two meals per day, serving 1 ½ cups of dog food in the morning and the same amount in the evening.
Protein is essential for muscle development, growth, and repair, making it a critical nutrient for your Basset Hound Pitbull mix. Good sources of protein include chicken, beef, and fish.
Low-carb diets are also important for the Basset Hound Pitbull mix because too many carbs can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
Instead, focus on complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, or quinoa, which provide the energy they need without causing weight gain.
Cleaning and Grooming
If your Basset Hound Pitbull mix takes after its Basset Hound parent, its coat requires regular grooming to maintain good health and hygiene. This includes weekly brushing to distribute natural oil throughout its coat.
Bathing should only be done when necessary, but generally, they may need a bath once every two months. Also, regular trimming helps prevent joint problems, and it’s a great idea to introduce trimming early.
Brushing your dog’s teeth thrice a week is recommended to prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease. Regular cleaning and infection monitoring is essential for Basset Hound Pitbull mixes with long, droopy ears.
Remember to be patient and gentle when grooming your dog. Grooming can be a bonding time for you and your furry friend, so make it a positive experience by being gentle and understanding its likes and dislikes.
Training and Exercise
When training your Basset Hound Pitbull mix, it’s important to use positive reinforcement methods as they are intelligent dogs that can quickly learn commands.
However, they can be stubborn at times, so patience is necessary. Avoid punishment-based training as it can harm your bond.
To determine the appropriate exercise routine for your Basset Hound Pitbull mix, it’s important to consider the exercise requirements of each parent breed.
Pitbulls need regular vigorous exercise to stay healthy, while Basset Hounds require moderate exercise due to their lower energy levels.
As a result, your Basset Hound Pitbull mix could have either high or low exercise requirements. Ideally, it needs 40 to 80 minutes of exercise per day.
How Much Does a Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The cost of a Basset Hound Pitbull mix puppy can vary based on factors such as the time of year, bloodline, and vaccination or worming records. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1,500 or more.
Adopting a Basset Hound Pitbull mix from animal rescue organizations is also a viable option. Depending on the rescue group, the adoption fee may cost around $300.
Other costs include food, veterinary care, grooming supplies, toys, training classes, and potentially even doggie daycare or pet-sitting services.
Here are the initial costs that you should expect when you choose to adopt a Basset Hound Pitbull mix:
Type of Expense | Cost |
Food and Treats | $70 – $110 |
Bowls | $10 – $30 |
Toys | $30 – $60 |
Beds | $40 – $200 |
Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
Crates and Carriers | $50 – $370 |
Grooming Essentials | $50 – $160 |
Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
Dog License | $10 – $20 |
Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
Total Initial Cost | $505 – $2,710 |
Before adopting a Basset Hound Pitbull mix, it’s crucial to consider these expenses and ensure you can afford to provide them with the necessary care and essentials.
That said, keep in mind that these are only estimates. Your actual expenses will depend on the prices in your area.
Places to Find Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Since the Basset Hound Pitbull mix is a rare hybrid, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization is important. Be wary of puppy mills and unethical breeders prioritizing profit over dog welfare.
Although locating breeders who specialize in Basset Hound Pitbull mixes can be a challenge, you can explore the websites below that focus on Basset Hounds and Pitbulls if they have puppies available for sale:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace – Consider reaching out to AKC-registered Pitbull or Basset Hound breeders and inquire about the availability of Basset Hound Pitbull mix puppies. This can be a useful step in finding a reputable breeder who specializes in this hybrid and can provide you with recommendations.
- Staffordshire Terrier Club of America (STCA) – Get in touch with any of these reputable Pitbull breeders in this organization to check if they offer Basset Hound Pitbull mixes. These breeders can provide you with more information about the hybrid, as well as any available Basset Hound Pitbull puppies for sale.
- Basset Hound Club of America (BHCA) – You may also reach out to the BHCA and ask for their suggestions on breeders who specialize in breeding Basset Hounds and Pitbulls together. They may be able to provide you with a list of reputable breeders who have experience in breeding Basset Hound Pitbull mixes.
If the above-mentioned sources were not successful, you could also attempt to find a Basset Hound Pitbull puppy through reputable Basset Hound and Pitbull breeders.
If you prefer adopting a Basset Hound Pitbull mix rather than buying one, here are several animal rescue organizations you can contact:
- Mayday Pit Bull Rescue – This Pitbull rescue makes the best match between their rescue dogs and potential adopters. You may check their dog adoption page and luckily come across a Basset Hound Pitbull mix.
- Pit Bull Rescue Central – This is another rescue option you could try exploring the dog listings on their website to see if there are any Pitbull Basset Hound puppies or dogs available for adoption.
- Adopt-a-Pet – Adopt-a-Pet is a great organization to check out. You can use their search filters to find specific breeds and even set up alerts for when new Basset Hound Pitbull mixes are added for adoption.
Finding a Basset Hound Pitbull mix for sale or adoption may require some effort, but it’s not impossible. You can start by checking with breeders and organizations listed above who specialize in Pitbulls or Basset Hounds.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Pitbull Basset Hound Mix
Before bringing a Basset Hound Pitbull mix into your home, careful consideration and preparation are necessary.
In case you are still uncertain whether or not to bring home this hybrid, here’s a compiled list of its pros and cons for you to evaluate.
Here are some pros of owning a Basset Hound Pitbull mix:
- Excellent family companions: Basset Hound Pitbull mixes are gentle and good with children. They are patient and tolerant, making them good family pets.
- Active and playful: The Basset Hound Pitbull mix has high energy and enthusiasm, making them ideal companions for people who enjoy outdoor activities or want a lively playmate.
- Low-maintenance grooming: Basset Hound Pitbull mixes have short coats, which means you don’t have to spend a lot of time or money on maintaining their coats.
- Unique appearance: Basset Hound Pitbull mixes may inherit a blend of physical traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a distinctive and eye-catching appearance.
Meanwhile, some of the cons of having a Basset Hound Pitbull mix are listed below:
- Can be stubborn: The Basset Hound Pitbull mix may exhibit stubborn behavior at times. This can make training a bit more challenging and require patience and consistency.
- Health issues: Like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Mixed breeds may inherit some health concerns from their parent breeds.
- Can be difficult to find: As a relatively uncommon mix, it may take some time and effort to locate a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy.
- Unpredictability: It can also be difficult for mixed breeds to predict exactly how the dog will turn out in terms of appearance, temperament, and health, which can be a concern for some potential owners.
You can use this list to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of having a Basset Hound Pitbull mix and determine if it is a suitable canine companion for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Basset Hound Pitbull Mixes Good Family Dogs?
Basset Hound Pitbull mixes are known to be excellent family dogs. These hybrids are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, and they love nothing more than spending time with their human families.
The Basset Hound Pitbull mix is a gentle and patient dog well-suited for families with young children.
They are also social and enjoy being around people, so they will quickly become beloved members of your household.
Are Basset Hound Pitbull Mixes Aggressive?
Like all dogs, the behavior of Basset Hound Pitbull mixes largely depends on their upbringing and environment. If they are not properly socialized, trained, or mistreated, they can become aggressive.
It’s essential to train and socialize them correctly from a young age to prevent any behavioral issues from developing.
Do Basset Hound Pitbull Mixes Shed?
Basset Hound Pitbull mixes can shed abundantly at times. As both Basset Hounds and Pitbulls are moderate to heavy shedders, their offspring may inherit this trait.
Regular brushing and grooming can help manage to shed and keep their coat healthy and shiny.
It’s essential to keep in mind that shedding is a natural process for dogs, and even non-shedding breeds still lose some hair.
Are Basset Hound Pitbull Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Basset Hound Pitbull mixes are not considered hypoallergenic. While they may seem to shed less than some other breeds, they still shed and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in some people.
While no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, certain breeds may produce fewer allergens than others.
If you or someone in your household has allergies, it’s important to spend time with a Basset Hound Pitbull mix before bringing them into your home to see if there are any allergic reactions.
Final Thoughts
If you are considering adding a Basset Hound Pitbull mix to your family, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that come with owning this unique breed.
However, with proper training and exercise, this active and playful dog can make a wonderful companion and even a great workout buddy.
Keep in mind that finding a Pitbull Basset Hound mix may be difficult, but with patience and persistence, you may just find the perfect addition to your family.
If you are up for the challenge, a Basset Hound Pitbull mix can be a rewarding and loving companion. Let us know your thoughts about the Basset Hound Pitbull mix in the comment section below!