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The German Shepherd Basset Hound mix is an interesting dog that suits a wide variety of lifestyles and fits most families. Undoubtedly, this hybrid dog brings the best features of its parent breeds into one wonderful mix!
Having a police dog parent like a German Shepherd and a hunting dog parent like a Basset Hound, their hybrid creates a great family dog and an excellent watcher. You get a cute pooch and a guard in one package.
If you’re thinking of getting a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix, or if you already have one, sit tight and read on. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the Basset Shepherd.
What Is a German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix?
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The German Shepherd Basset Hound mix is a crossbreed that combines the best features of the German Shepherd with the Basset Hound. These two breeds make for an interesting combination, as they are both working dogs with very different body types. This hybrid dog is also known as the Basset Shepherd.
German Shepherd Basset Hound mixes are relatively easy to train and make excellent watchdogs, as they inherit the best traits from both parents. This mix is relatively new but is now gaining attention in the pet world.
In addition, the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Partners.
This is a program that welcomes mixed-breed dogs like Basset Shepherds to enroll and participate in dog shows and other dog activities.
German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Origin and History
The German Shepherd Basset Hound mix originates from a breed of hunters and working dogs. These dogs have only been around for the past 20 years and have no well-documented history.
Fortunately, we can learn more about the origin and history of their parent breeds. This way, we can gain insights into what this mix is made of.
For starters, their German Shepherd parent was developed in Germany during the 19th century as military dogs. They were recognized as great guide dogs and were used in search-and-rescue missions over the years.
In the year 1908, the American Kennel Club (AKC) acknowledged the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) as a breed.
Meanwhile, their Basset Hound parents were created around the 16th century in France and were introduced to the United States in the early 19th century.
With their amazing sense of smell, they were used for generations not only as companion dogs but also as hunting dogs.
With the excellent qualities of both parents, Basset Shepherds make great family dogs that are loyal, brave, and eager to protect their owners.
German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Appearance
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A Basset Shepherd’s appearance will reflect both its parents. For instance, it tends to have the coloration and facial features of the German Shepherd while possessing the shorter legs and long body of the Basset Hound.
They have floppy ears shorter than the Basset Hound, framing their pointed muzzles. Their brown eyes are lively and can surely capture your attention.
Moreover, they typically have a brown body with a black blanket on their back and nose.
However, like with many hybrids, the appearance of each Basset Shepherd may vary significantly, even if they have the same purebred parents.
They can have the coat colors of a Basset Hound, while some may acquire the sable, black, or liver color of its GSD parent.
To see a video of what a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix looks like, check out this video:
Boone - Basset Hound/Shepherd Mix<a href="https://youtu.be/Ha3QVH4NvfQ" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FHa3QVH4NvfQ%2F0.jpg" alt="Boone - Basset Hound/Shepherd Mix" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Size and Weight
The height of the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix ranges from about 12 to 20 inches. Their weight is almost similar to that of a German Shepherd Labrador mix, typically between 50 and 80 pounds.
Males are generally bigger, while females are usually smaller. Furthermore, while rare, some Basset Shepherds can grow to be taller than 20 inches.
Between 12 and 18 months, most of these pups stop growing. In contrast, some may still grow until they are 24 months old.
Overall, their weight and size can also vary depending on the traits they inherit from their Basset Hound and German Shepherd parents.
German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Temperament and Personality
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Basset Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, yet they can occasionally display a little stubbornness. It will be best if you are prepared to train and socialize with them frequently.
But despite their stubbornness, they are very easy-tempered and non-aggressive.
Furthermore, given the high energy level of this mix, early training and socialization will help keep them calm and well-behaved around other people and other dogs.
This hybrid is attentive, fearless, and heroic, making it well-known for its guarding abilities and watchdog instincts.
As a result, they are cautious of outsiders and are driven to notify their owners if they notice any intruder trespassing into their house.
German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
A German Shepherd Basset Hound mix in good health condition can live for 10 to 14 years. However, it could also depend on the health and lifespan of their German Shepherd and Basset Hound parents.
As a designer breed, the Basset Shepherd has a stronger immune system and is less likely to contract breed-specific health issues. However, it can still experience various health problems, so you still need to be cautious.
The following are common health issues Basset Shepherds may experience:
Eye Issues: If you see a red bump in the corner of your puppy’s eye. It could be a cherry eye. Cherry eyes are among the Basset Shepherd’s most typical eye conditions. This happens when the tear gland pops out of place and becomes visible above the eyelid.
Hip Dysplasia: According to the American Kennel Club, hip dysplasia can happen to any size or breed of dog, including the Basset Shepherd. It is a painful condition wherein the ball and socket joint suffers from abnormal development. Understanding the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of hip dysplasia can be the key to keeping your dog healthy and at ease.
Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a condition that affects the spinal cord, where it gradually loses the ability to send impulses. If affected, the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix may have a hard time swallowing and controlling their facial movements. According to studies, German Shepherds are particularly susceptible to degenerative myelopathy.
The most significant thing you can do to keep your pup healthy and happy is to be a responsible dog owner and learn about any health problems your fur baby might have. Of course, regular vet checks are also a must.
How to Take Care of Your Basset Hound German Shepherd Mix
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It’s essential to properly care for a Basset Hound German Shepherd mix should you decide to bring home one.
Keeping a pup is a huge responsibility, but with their loving presence, raising one is surely worthwhile.
Read along to learn more about taking care of your Basset Hound German Shepherd mix.
Food and Diet
Obesity and weight gain are two things to watch out for with this breed. Like the GSD and the Basset Hound, Basset Shepherds have big appetites.
Ideally, they should be fed 3 to 4 cups of dog food every day. Occasionally, you may give them treats or dog-friendly crackers.
When choosing dog food for your Basset Shepherd, keep in mind that it needs a high-quality, protein-rich food containing 18 to 22 percent of protein for its overall growth and development.
They also need the right amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals in their bodies to maintain a healthy life.
If you want to learn more, you can read our guide on German Shepherd feeding and Basset Hound feeding. These guides will give you an idea about how to properly feed a Basset Shepherd dog.
Cleaning and Grooming
As the Basset Shepherd’s parents both tend to shed moderately to excessively, you should be prepared to groom your pooch often to keep shedding at a minimum level.
Your Basset Shepherd might benefit from brushing twice a week and occasional baths. Since the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix has thick coats, you should watch out for possible fleas and ticks.
Also, don’t forget to clean its ears, as folded-over ears are more prone to excess moisture and any foreign material getting trapped inside. Thus, it could lead to inflammation and infection.
Moreover, trim your fur baby’s nails every few weeks or so, especially once you start hearing its nails clicking against the floor. Brushing your dog’s teeth every day is also advised to prevent tartar buildup.
Training and Exercise
To keep the Basset Shepherd’s aggression and temperament under control, you need to train it as early as puppyhood.
You may find that training and teaching your Basset Shepherd is easy. However, it may still require patience and effort, as they tend to be stubborn.
Socialization training at a young age for this breed can help them create a positive connection with humans and other dogs and animals.
This mix can have a lot of energy. Therefore, it will need tons of exercise. Providing one hour of exercise every day is recommended.
Let your pup explore new places. Basset Shepherds love to go for walks and check out new sounds and smells, so this is an excellent way for them to get both physical and mental exercise.
How Much Does a German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
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German Shepherd Basset Hound mixes usually cost between $500 and $2,000. Their price is somewhat close to the price of a purebred German Shepherd or a purebred Basset Hound.
Aside from the price of a Basset Shepherd itself, you also need to consider the following initial expenses:
On top of the above-listed items, pet insurance is another recommended purchase for pet owners. This will ensure that you will be financially prepared should your dog require any emergency medical expenses.
You can also check our articles on German Shepherd and Basset Hound costs and expenses for comparison.
Places to Find German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
A German Shepherd Basset Hound mix may be difficult to find, considering that it is a relatively new crossbreed. Always consider buying from a reputable breeder, as some breeders practice unethical breeding.
Check out the reputable sources listed below for a chance to find Basset Shepherd puppies for sale:
Keystone Puppies – This is a popular online advertising platform for reputable breeders. Rest assured that they always verify their puppy breeders before anything else. Ensure a stress-free transaction when you choose Keystone Puppies in buying your Basset Shepherd.
Lancaster Puppies – This is a website that connects dog buyers to reputable dog breeders. It is a marketplace with over two million visitors each year. They sell puppies of all breeds, including the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix.
Greenfield Puppies – This established website was founded in 2000. Rest assured that your future Basset Shepherd is a healthy, happy puppy if you get it from Greenfield Puppies. This platform values the well-being of the puppies, so every pup they sell comes with a 30-day health guarantee.
If you find yourself still on the hunt for the most suitable breeder for you, we have a list of our top picks for the most trusted breeders of Basset Hounds and German Shepherds. Occasionally, these breeders also produce hybrids.
It’s worth reiterating that you should steer away from puppy mills and transact only with sellers that adhere to ethical standards of breeding and operation.
Meanwhile, if you choose to adopt a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix, here are some sources to check out:
Petfinder – This is one of the most popular websites for finding new homes for pets. They have listings for dogs with a mix of German Shepherds and Basset Hounds for adoption. Moreover, it is a directory of nearly 11,000 animal shelters and adoption organizations around the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Helping Hounds Dog Rescue – This is a non-profit organization that helps rescue dogs find their perfect home. Every year, they adopt thousands of dogs, including German Shepherd Basset Hound mixes. They require an adoption fee of around $400 to $600, which is used to cover medical care and transport services.
Coastal German Shepherd Rescue – This organization has been helping rescue dogs since 2004. They require a minimum adoption fee of $375, depending on the dog’s age. This amount is tax-deductible and only partially covers the cost of veterinary care, boarding fees, and other miscellaneous expenses involved.
If you’re interested in seeing more lists of trusted rescues, you can check out our article on the best rescues offering German Shepherds and Basset Hounds.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Basset Hound German Shepherd Mix
As with any other breed, bringing a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix into your home offers advantages and disadvantages.
This section lists some of the benefits and drawbacks of owning a Basset Shepherd so you can decide if this dog is perfect for you.
For starters, here are the pros of having a Basset Shepherd:
Highly intelligent: Because of its high intelligence, you can be guaranteed to have a pup that can help you in your day-to-day life. With proper training, Basset Shepherds can be excellent learners.
Excellent guard dog: Coming from two intelligent parents, Basset Shepherds are observant and alert. They are aware of their surroundings and can easily determine if anything unusual is happening. Additionally, they are protective of their owners and will scare off any threats surrounding them.
Suitable for kids: Regardless of which parent breed your Basset Shepherd will take after, you can be confident that it will be a loving and devoted protector of your children. They truly excel when it comes to being patient and empathetic with other people, especially with kids.
Meanwhile, here are the cons of owning a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix:
Can be a bit stubborn: Despite their intelligence, you may find that training Basset Shepherd will require some patience and effort. They can sometimes be challenging to handle, so it’s important to train them while they’re still young.
Highly energetic: With their high energy levels, playing with a child can lead to accidental injury, so be mindful when leaving Basset Shepherd alone with your kids. In addition, they can display destructive behavior if not given enough attention and proper exercise.
Prone to obesity: As mentioned before, Basset Shepherds tend to overeat, which could lead to obesity. With this, it is crucial to give them just the right portion of food per day.
Because owning a dog is a huge responsibility, it is only important to make sure the pup you choose is the right pick for you.
With this guide, you can now weigh whether a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix is worth getting.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are Basset Hound German Shepherd Mixes Good Dogs?
Yes, the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix is a good dog. They get along well with families, pets, and even strangers. They have qualities that everyone wants in a dog.
What’s more, you can expect them to be very obedient and devoted and willing to protect and serve you at all costs.
Do Basset Hound German Shepherd Mixes Shed?
Yes, since they have thick overcoats, they tend to shed a lot. For that reason, it is crucial to groom your Basset Shepherd often.
To retain their hair’s shine and the natural oil in their skin, keep in mind to brush them regularly. And since shedding is prone to this breed, you must first have a good vacuum before committing to them.
Are Basset Hound German Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Due to their tendency to shed a lot, Basset Shepherds are not hypoallergenic and may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
Clean your pup’s bedding regularly and brush its hair often to prevent allergic responses.
Are German Shepherd Basset Hound Mixes Lazy Dogs?
No, this mix is considered very active. They even have the desire to work and serve their owners. If you want a productive dog, this hybrid might be the perfect companion for you.
As discussed, it can even be willing to help you with tasks on a day-to-day basis.
Final Thoughts: Is a Basset Shepherd Mix the Right Dog for You?
The German Shepherd Basset Hound mix is a fantastic hybrid of two excellent breeds. If you choose to get one as a pet, you’ll get a kind and devoted companion who gets along well with kids and other pets.
In exchange for its loving and loyal attributes, this breed will need adequate attention and quality time with you.
Overall, if you’re looking for a dog that will love, obey, and protect you, the Basset Shepherd might be the one you’re searching for!
Now that you’ve reached this far, what do you think about owning this mixed-breed dog? Are you getting one soon? Leave your comments about the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix below!
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