The Shepherd Hound mix is one of the favorite mixed breeds in the United States. Unlike other mixes, they can be registered at kennel clubs to join dog events and competitions.
A German Shepherd Hound mix can either be a German Shepherd Basset Hound mix or a German Shepherd Coonhound mix.
If you are wondering what their differences are, this article will give you everything you need to know!
Here, you’ll learn about the origin, characteristics, temperament, health issues, and tips on how to take care of a German Shepherd Hound mix puppy.
Moreover, this guide will help you assess if this breed is the right dog for you.
What Is a German Shepherd Hound Mix?
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A Shepherd Hound mix is a combination of a German Shepherd and a hound. There are two types, the German Shepherd Coonhound mix and the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix. This mix is a descendant of two of the most intelligent and loyal breeds.
The German Shepherd Basset Hound mix comes from two hard-working dog breeds. Both parents have hunting instincts, so one can expect this breed to be full of energy and eager for physical activities.
German Shepherd Basset Hound mixes are also called Basset Shepherds or GSD Basset Hound mixes.
On the other hand, the Coonhound Shepherd mix is another German Shepherd mix. Just like other hound dogs, they are very active and affectionate.
With the right supervision and training, both crossbreeds can prove to be excellent family companions.
They can also be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Partners to join dog shows and sports.
German Shepherd Hound Mix Origin and History
The Shepherd Hound mix has existed for less than 20 years, but there is still little knowledge about its history. However, most of its background can be traced back to its parent breeds.
The German Shepherd Hound dog mix comes from a breed of hunters and farm dogs. Their Hound ancestors were originally bred to hunt live animals, especially rabbits.
Meanwhile, the German Shepherd breed was originally trained to herd sheep. As years passed, they were also tasked to help with search-and-rescue operations and were known to be excellent guide dogs.
That is why one can expect that a German Shepherd Hound mix puppy will be very active and need regular physical and mental exercises. They are also very likely to have a strong sense of smell.
German Shepherd Hound Mix Appearance
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A German Shepherd Hound mix puppy may get both of the physical traits of its parents, but sometimes they may resemble only one of their parents. Typically, a Shepherd Hound mix has a long body with short legs.
Its muzzle is long and square. The coat may be black, brown, or white, while others have beautiful patterns and combinations of these different colors.
Aside from these, a Shepherd Hound mix may exhibit traits from other varieties of German Shepherds.
Instead of the typical brown and black color, some may have solid black or solid brown like the liver German Shepherd.
The Coonhound Shepherd mix or the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix puppy may also have short or long hair, depending again on the variety of their German Shepherd parent.
Some may have a double coat, while others have a single coat. This will protect them from cold or extreme heat. A Shepherd Hound mix may also have a wooly, dense, and slightly wavy coat.
The ears of this crossbreed are also large and pointing downwards, just like that of a Basset Hound. Their eyes are bright and alert, and their tails are quite long.
You can check this link to see a video of what a Shepherd Hound mix looks like:
Daniel Boone- Hound/Shepherd Mix<a href="https://youtu.be/QqxAGxaj_dQ" 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%2FQqxAGxaj_dQ%2F0.jpg" alt="Daniel Boone- Hound/Shepherd Mix" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
German Shepherd Hound Mix Size and Weight
A German Shepherd Basset Hound mix can weigh from 50 to 75 pounds and grow up to 12 to 20 inches, just slightly bigger than its Basset Hound parent.
Meanwhile, a Coonhound Shepherd mix can weigh anywhere from 45 to 80 pounds in weight and between 23 and 27 inches in height.
Hence, you can expect your dog can grow from a medium to large-sized pooch once they are fully grown.
Usually, GSD Hound mixes stop growing between 12 and 18 months. However, others may continue to grow until 24 months old.
You must also consider the genetics and variant of your German Shepherd Hound mix puppy.
Its weight and height may slightly differ from the others if the parents come from the giant or dwarf German Shepherd lineage.
Moreover, there are four variants of the Coonhound. This includes the Treeing Walker, Redbone, Black and Tan, and the Bluetick Coonhound. This may also affect the size of your hybrid dog.
German Shepherd Hound Mix Temperament and Personality
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Just like its parent breeds, a Shepherd Hound mix is very loyal and brave. It will not hesitate to put its life on the line to protect its owner. This hybrid also makes a good family dog because of its affectionate nature.
The male German Shepherd Basset Hound mix can be more protective than its female counterpart, but they are also friendlier. But this behavior may differ based on the variety of their parents.
This mix is patient with children and other dogs. However, they need supervision whenever they are around small kids because of their playfulness.
The German Shepherd and Hound mix also has innate curiosity. This goes back to their history of being bred as hunters.
Their intelligence and alertness make them not only good companions but also excellent guard dogs.
Socialization at an early age is important to avoid problems in the future. With the right guidance and care, your Shepherd Hound mix can grow with a temperament that is on par with the breed’s standards.
German Shepherd Hound Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
A healthy Shepherd Hound mix can live for 10 to 14 years. One benefit of having this mix is it is not prone to many serious diseases unless they come from unhealthy parents.
One of the most common problems with a German Shepherd Hound dog mix is obesity. Unlike other dogs, this breed will eat their hearts out if left with food and treats.
Other health problems that are usually seen with German Shepherd Hound mixes are the following:
Degenerative Myelopathy: This is also called chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM). It is a condition where the spinal cord of the dog is affected, leading to its inability to walk and control urination and bowel movements. According to studies, this condition arises when a dog has a mutated gene or when it inherits it from its parents.
Hip Dysplasia: This is also called canine hip dysplasia (CHD). This condition is hereditary but common for large breeds and overweight dogs. The pain is due to the ball and socket joints in the hips, which become loose. Continuous abnormal movement of the hip joint causes it to lose cartilage and eventually form scars and bone spurs.
Eye Issues: One of the most common eye problems seen in the Shepherd Hound mix is the cherry eye. This is an inflamed tear gland in a dog’s eyelid. It is called cherry eye because it appears as a bright red, swollen gland in the eyes. Although this is not very painful, the condition may worsen if the dog scratches it.
The best way to prevent these conditions is to bring your Shepherd Hound mix to the veterinarian for health checks. Providing them with nutritious food and suitable exercise is also beneficial.
How to Take Care of Your German Shepherd Hound Mix
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Before getting a German Shepherd Hound mix, it is important that you are prepared to take on the responsibility of taking care of it throughout its lifetime.
If you are planning to get a Shepherd Hound mix, it is important that you have sufficient knowledge on how to take care of your pooch. This guide will teach you how to feed, groom, and train your dog.
Food and Diet
A Shepherd Hound mix needs a balanced diet in order to keep it healthy and live a longer life.
Proteins, fats, fibers, vitamins, and minerals are all important to keep your German Shepherd Hound dog mix in optimal health condition.
Proteins are essential to their diet because this will help them develop a splendid physique.
A German Shepherd Hound mix puppy needs at least 22% of proteins in its diet, while an adult Shepherd Hound mix needs 18%.
The right amount of fats is important because this will provide your dog the energy that it needs for its daily activities since its parents are both very energetic breeds.
A German Shepherd Hound mix requires two well-proportioned meals in a day. Avoid overfeeding them because this mix is prone to obesity, which may eventually lead to hip and joint problems in the future.
A bowl with clean water must also always be available to keep your dogs hydrated. You may add some ice cubes to their bowl if the weather gets too hot for them in the summer.
Cleaning and Grooming
The German Shepherd Hound dog mix has a medium to long coat. It also has a thick overcoat which is why they shed a lot during the spring and summer seasons.
Regular brushing is essential to prevent it from matting and to keep the natural oils on its coat. This oil will keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. A Shepherd Hound mix may bathe once a month or every 2 to 3 months.
The thick coat of this breed protects it from dirt, so you don’t need to bathe it often. Regular brushing also removes the dust trapped on its coat. However, your dog needs a bath if it accidentally rolls on its poop or plays in the mud.
During flea and tick season, bathe your German Shepherd Hound mix with a medicated shampoo. Fleas and ticks carry diseases that can put your dog’s life at risk.
Don’t forget to check on your dog’s skin for infections hidden under its coat. Some common skin problems are eczema, hot spots, and other fungal infections.
Training and Exercise
Although this cross is highly trainable, a German Shepherd Hound mix puppy needs training in basic obedience, potty training, walking, and socialization at an early age.
This mix can be stubborn and may sometimes not pay attention to your lessons. But given proper training and patience, your dog will learn your commands easily.
The German Shepherd Basset Hound mix and the Coonhound mix come from a lineage of hunters. Therefore, regular exercises, both physical and mental, are important to them.
They may destroy things at home if they get bored, so aside from regular walks, toys that are mentally stimulating will be helpful in keeping them busy.
How Much Does a German Shepherd Hound Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The Shepherd Hound mix may be hard to find in the market. Its price may range from $500 to $2,000, which is comparable to the Basset Hound’s and German Shepherd’s prices.
You also need an initial budget for food, vet visits, and basic essentials. If you already have some of these, this budget may be reduced.
The table below will give you an overview of the budget you need in case you want to get a German Shepherd Hound mix puppy:
Aside from the expenses shown in this table, you must also prepare emergency funds for unexpected expenses. These expenses include medical expenses in case your dog gets sick.
Places to Find German Shepherd Hound Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
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Since the Shepherd Hound mix breed is still new, finding a reputable breeder becomes a challenge.
Always keep in mind that when buying puppies, visit the breeder for you to see how they take care of their dogs.
You will find several breeders online who are claiming to sell healthy Shepherd Hound mix puppies. If you are not vigilant enough, you and your new puppy may fall victim to unethical breeders.
Below are some of the trusted sources where you can find a German Shepherd Hound mix:
Greenfield Puppies – This is a website that offers mixed breeds like the German Shepherd Hound mix. They ensure that each breeder registered on their website practices humane and ethical breeding. Their shipping fees start at $545, which includes a new crate, some food, and water bowl, and some absorbent material to keep your new furry friend comfortable throughout the trip home.
Keystone Puppies – This is another website offering German Shepherd Hound mixes. They conduct semi-annual surprise inspections of their accredited breeders to make sure that they have compassionate breeding habits for their dogs. They also ship puppies to other states for a fee of $645, which covers the transportation of the puppy from the breeder to the airport.
Buck Eye Puppies – This is a website that aims to connect puppies to prospective buyers around Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. They regularly monitor the ads on their websites, and if they receive any complaints about any seller, they will immediately take down the ad and ban the seller if needed. Unfortunately, they don’t offer to ship puppies.
To avoid buying from illegal puppy mills, you may check out our ultimate puppy buying guide. Puppy mills sell not only unhealthy puppies, but also force their dogs to breed, so it’s best to transact with a trusted breeder.
If you are still having a hard time finding a breeder, you may check out our top picks for our most trusted breeders of Basset Hounds and German Shepherds.
Aside from these breeders, you may also choose to adopt your GSD Hound mix from a shelter.
You may check out the following rescues and shelters for a German Shepherd Hound:
Helping Hounds Dog Rescue – This non-profit organization started in 2009, and its mission is to find a suitable home for displaced German Shepherds and their mixes, including the German Shepherd Hound mix. They require an adoption fee of $600 to $700. You may fill out an application form found on their website if you plan to take in one of their rescues.
Coastal German Shepherd Rescue – This rescue group is from San Diego, California. Their minimum adoption fees range from $300 to $400. A set of requirements must be met if you want to adopt one of their rescued dogs. This is to ensure that the dog is going to the right family.
Northeast Animal Shelter – Founded in 1976, this animal shelter provides a relocation program to abandoned animals, including the Shepherd Hound mix. They transport rescued animals to New England, where adoption demands are high. One of their goals is to find their forever homes for rescues and decongest overpopulated shelters.
Whether a dog was bought or adopted, it can give you the same love and loyalty. Adopting a rescue provides new hope for an animal. These rescued animals will surely return the care and affection you have given.
Are you still having a hard time looking for the right rescue? You can check out our list of most trusted rescues for German Shepherds and Basset Hounds and adopt your new furry friend in no time!
Pros and Cons of Owning a Shepherd Hound Mix
Just like with any other breed, having a Shepherd Hound mix has its pros and cons.
If you are still deciding whether you want to take in this breed or not, I have listed below the advantages and disadvantages of owning this mixed breed.
Let’s start off with the perks of having a Shepherd Hound mix:
Very intelligent: Whether you want a companion or a show dog, this mixed breed has the intelligence of both of its parents. You can train it for competitions or even help you get your morning newspaper.
Excellent guard dog: This breed’s unwavering loyalty and bravery are qualities unique to this breed. You can be sure that no one will even dare to harm you in the presence of your buddy.
Highly sociable: The German Shepherd Hound mix is naturally patient and affectionate to other pets and kids. Although their personality will also depend on their environment, this breed is known to easily get along well with others.
Now let’s talk about the drawbacks of owning a German Shepherd Hound mix:
Prone to obesity: This crossbreed is a big eater. Therefore, you must give them food in proportion. Overfeeding them will lead to obesity and other health problems.
Highly energetic: This crossbreed has so much energy. If not given enough activities, it may develop destructive behaviors in the future.
Limited breeders: You may find it difficult to find breeders with this mix. The list of breeders and rescue groups we provided in the previous section may help you find the right German Shepherd Hound mix puppy for you.
Deciding to have a pet is a decision that will affect you and your dog. It is important that you have weighed your options before getting one in order to avoid neglect and abandonment of your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are German Shepherd Hound Mixes Aggressive?
The German Shepherd Hound mix is affectionate but has a brave character. Given proper training and a loving environment, your puppy will grow with a good temperament and discipline.
If your pooch was socialized early as puppies, chances are it won’t be aggressive unless provoked.
Do German Shepherd Hound Mixes Shed a Lot?
This dog is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Hound, both of which have medium to long hair and thick coats. You must expect that this breed will shed a lot, especially during the summer and spring.
Shedding will also depend if your puppy’s parents came from the long-haired or the short-haired variety.
There are also some with a single or a double coat. Knowing the genetics of the parents will let you know what to expect from your puppy.
Are German Shepherd Hound Mixes Hypoallergenic?
The German Shepherd Hound dog mix may cause allergies to people because they shed a lot. It is important that you frequently brush your dog’s hair and clean its bedding regularly to avoid allergic reactions.
If your puppy got its genes from long-haired parents, regular grooming is a must to keep away dander that causes these allergies.
Final Thoughts: Is a Shepherd Hound Mix the Right Dog for You?
The Shepherd Hound mix is one of the favorite mixed breeds in the United States because of its smart personality. Its loyalty and courage are unmeasurable; that is why it is an excellent guard dog.
However, because of its energetic personality, this breed is good for families who can provide adequate attention and exercise to the dog.
This is to prevent your German Shepherd and Hound mix from developing destructive behavior.
An experienced dog owner is the best fit for a Shepherd Hound mix because it needs proper training, diet, and discipline.
Patience and experience in training your dog are both important to achieve the right temperament.
Are you still deciding to take in a Shepherd Hound mix? Or do you have experience taking care of this breed? Share your thoughts in the comment section!
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