Basset Hound Pitbull Mix: Why they’re rare

Do you know what a Kinder Surprise Egg is? In the US it’s illegal, but basically, it’s a chocolate egg with a little surprise toy inside. Hence the name Surprise Egg. With that egg, you have no idea which toy you’ll get, and that’s how it is with the Basset Hound Pitbull Mix. 

This is a rare crossbreed with which not even the breeder can know which traits it will have. Now, I know that’s usually how it is with crossbreeds. But with this mix, it’s on a whole new level! This is because two breeds with completely different traits are combined. And not only personality traits, but physical too!

This is a very interesting crossbreed worth mentioning and learning about. And that’s what we’ll do now! We’ll talk about what makes this breed so unique.

You can check out other Pitbull mixes too:

• Dalmatian Pitbull Mix: Rare And Demanding
• French Bulldog Pitbull Mix
• Australian Shepherd Pitbull Mix
• Bully Pitbull Mix: The dog that is not for everyone
• Cane Corso Pitbull Mix: What To Know

Basset Hound Pitbull Mix – What to know

A Basset Hound Pitbull mix is, as the name implies, a crossbreed of a Pitbull and a Basset Hound. Obviously, because this is a crossbreed, kennel clubs like the AKC do not consider them a real breed. But that should not stop you from getting one unless you want to take part in dog shows. 

As we’ve already mentioned, because these two breeds are so different, we can’t predict how their puppies will look like nor what they’ll be like. Not even the puppies in the same litter will look the same! The Basset Hound dog mixed with Pitbull is still pretty rare, so there isn’t any breed standard yet. 

There is no record of when the first Basset Hound Pitbull Mix was created or even where they were created. It’s kind of a mystery. That’s why we can’t tell you much about their history, however, we can take a closer look at the breed parents to learn more about this dog itself. But, let’s take a closer look at this mix.

Basset Hound Pitbull Mix Origins and History

Nobody seems to know who bred the first Basset Hound Pitbull puppy, when they were born, or where they were born. This hybrid breed’s history and origins are a little hazy. The 90s were the time when most of today’s crossbreeds came to be, and the Pitbull Basset Hound mix puppy could be a 90s baby as well. 

Sadly, there isn’t much more known about the origins of this unique designer dog. Knowing their parents’ origins and breed histories can still teach us a lot about the Pitbull Basset Hound mix.

History of the Pitbull

Pitbulls can be traced back to the early 1800s in the United Kingdom, where they were bred from an ancient English bulldog that looks similar to the American Bulldog of today. Bull-baiting, a horrific blood sport popular in the United Kingdom, made them famous and popular.

Crossbreeding blended the agility and ability of terriers with the might of the bulldog to create the Pitbull.

They were used in bear-baiting as well as blood sports like bull-biting.

This type of blood sport was forbidden or outlawed in 1835. Nonetheless, Pitbulls have functioned as the majority of hazardous dog breeds used in illegal dogfighting in the United States, according to history.

The Basset Hound’s History

The Saint Harvard hounds, forerunners of today’s Bloodhound, are the ancestors of the Basset Hound. This purebred parent is known as a courageous dog and they were once employed as guard dogs and watchdogs. 

The Basset Hound was one of the first canine breeds to gain popularity among the French nobles. Following the French Revolution, people who wanted a hound that could follow them on foot used Basset Hounds as hunting dogs.

During the Great Depression, the first Basset Houses arrived in America, although this breed did not arrive on its own. It took a different century in the United States.

Various organizations have recognized and registered a large number of dog breeds that go by the name Pitbull today.

The first Basset Hound was registered in 1885 by the American Kennel Club, and it was also known as a bouncer. In 1960, the American Kennel Club recognized the Basset Hound as a breed.

Physical traits 

There is no standard to how these dogs look. But, if we look at both parent breeds we can get an idea of how their puppies might look. So, both parents have short coats. And that’s where their similarities in their physical traits end.

When it comes to their coat color, there is no rule. They can be one solid color or a combination of white and another color, for example:

• grey
• fawn
• reddish brown
• black

Their color basically depends on their parent’s colors. These dogs don’t shed a lot, so grooming won’t be hard. Just make sure to brush them at least once.

Genes and genetics are complicated topics. So, it’s not easy to understand which traits from which parents the puppies will get. But, because of the Basset Hound’s marked features, it’s more likely for the puppies to look like their Pitbull parent.

Generally, they have short legs and a long face. Their bodies are elongated, but they are relatively proportionately built. What sets them apart from other dogs is that the ankles on their front paws are inward-facing.

Basset Hound Pitbull Mix look like

But how big do these dogs get? Well, the Basset Hound parent breed can be up to 15 inches tall and weigh between 40 to 65 pounds.

The American Pitbull Terrier is larger than the Basset Hound. Pitbull males are between 18 and 19 inches tall, while females are a bit smaller and between 17 and 18 inches. Both females and males can weigh between 30 and 85 pounds. But usually, females will weigh less.

Now that we know that, let’s see how large their puppies will get. A Basset Hound Pitbull mix is between 15 and 17 inches tall and can weigh between 40 and 60 pounds.

What they’re like

The Basset hound is a charming, patient, and calm dog. The Pitbull is smart, confident, protective, but they also have a good nature. So, what will happen when you combine two such different dogs? Let’s see!

To better understand what the mix could be like, let’s compare the traits of both parent breeds.

So, given that they are completely different, each puppy will usually have a different temperament too. Many people who own these dogs say that they are charming but fierce. They are loyal and devoted to their family. These dogs will do anything to please you, so they are obedient and sweet-tempered.

As you can see, at first glance it seems like these dogs have nothing in common. But that’s not completely true. They have many similarities and traits that mean the Basset Hound Pitbull Mix will be a great family dog.

Of course, for a puppy to grow up into a well-behaved and well-rounded dog you have to train them and socialize them. So, you can’t expect them to know what acceptable behavior is without teaching them.

Training them can be a bit of a challenge. Just like the parent breeds, the mix is an intelligent dog. But they are also very stubborn. Especially the Basset Hound. So, you will have to stay patient and consistent with them and use the positive reinforcement approach.

Health 

The Basset Hound Pitbull Mix is a relatively healthy dog that lives between 12 and 16 years. Crossbreeds are usually much healthier than their parent breeds anyways. But that doesn’t mean these dogs aren’t susceptible to certain hereditary health problems. Some of the most common health problems they experience are:

• Cardiac disease – Problems with the heart or blood vessels. This condition can be congenital or acquired.
• Hip Dysplasia – A very common problem among all dogs. Hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the ball and socket of the hip. It leads to hip joint deterioration and loss of function. Your dog could experience pain and lack of mobility.  
• Skin and coat allergies – Your Basset Hound Pitbull mix can suffer from different skin and coat allergies. They can have itchy skin, they can suffer from hair loss, flaky skin, and so on.
• Bleeding Disorders – They can suffer from nosebleeds very often or have bleeding gums. In some severe cases, they could even experience some serious blood loss. 
• Hypothyroidism – Their thyroid is underactive and slows down your dog’s metabolism causing damage to other organs. 

Another very common health problem these dogs suffer from is ear problems, and eye problems like glaucoma or progressive retinal atrophy. Make sure you require health screenings from your breeder before buying a puppy. 

One aspect of keeping these dogs healthy is making sure they get enough exercise. The Basset Hound Pitbull mix is a very active dog. They are full of energy and need a lot of exercise. How much exercise they will need depends on the particular dog.

So, there is no rule. Some might need half an hour of exercise, others might need an hour of exercise. But we will talk more about their care needs in the next part of the article. 

Food & Nutrition

Just like any other dog, make sure you feed your Basset Hound and Pitbull mix the proper food at the right time. Limit the number of treats and food you give your dog because both types are prone to gaining weight. We know it’s hard to say no to our dogs, however, sometimes you just have to, for their own good. 

Because your Basset Hound Pitbull mix is unique, you’ll need to figure out its food and dietary needs. In this regard, knowing certain rules and making advice to its parents may be advantageous. High-quality dog food with a variety of nutrients is ideal for Basset Hounds. A Basset Hound should be fed one and a half cups of dog food twice a day, in the morning and evening. To add moisture to dry dog food, mix 2 teaspoons canned dog food with 2 teaspoons dry dog food.

Pitbulls are high-energy dogs, therefore their diet should include high-protein, low-grain dog food to keep them healthy. As a general rule for homemade dog food, a Pitbull’s daily meal consumption should be 2 to 4% of its total body weight. Follow the feeding instructions for a portion of high-protein store-bought dog food with meat as the principal component. In any case, you may always request a Basset Hound Pitbull mix-specific food from your doctor.

Grooming

The coat of your Pitbull Basset Hound mix should be groomed on a regular basis, especially if they have a Basset Hound-like coat. Despite their short hair, Basset Hounds can shed a lot. They need to be brushed once a week to get rid of dead hair and disperse their skin’s natural oils all over their body.

One thing many dog owners often overlook is dental hygiene. A healthy pair of teeth will make their quality of life much better. That’s why you should brush your dogs’ teeth at least three times a week, and go for a professional cleaning to the vet at least once a year. This will help prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay. 

Remember to clean their ears and check for ear infections on a regular basis if they have long and drooping ears. Bathing your Pitbull Basset Hound mix on a regular basis is a good idea, especially if it spends a lot of time outside. Get your puppy used to having his nails clipped early on so you don’t have to worry about keeping his paws clean later.

Remember to be kind and patient when cleaning and brushing your dog. Consider these chores as another way to show your love for your dog or as bonding opportunities to learn more about his likes and dislikes.

Exercise

Because different breeds have different exercise needs, your Pitbull Basset Hound mix may require a lot of exercise, a more moderate fitness routine, or something in between. Depending on the dog, this will differ. It will all depend on which parent breed your dog takes more after.

But either way, your dog will need at least 30-40 minutes of activity on a daily level. And that is really the bare minimum. One quick walk in the dog park won’t cut it. So make sure you actually give your dog some activity. If you are an apartment dweller that doesn’t like going outside, rather go for a different crossbreed, like the Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix. 

The Pitbull will be simple to train due to its intelligence and drive to please. With its scenthound characteristics, the Basset Hound has an independent streak and may be difficult or hesitant to heed commands. So, while your Pitbull Basset Hound mix may be trainable, they could also be stubborn.

Positive reinforcement training and a lot of treats and verbal praise will do the trick, so make sure you always have a firm but a friendly attitude towards your dog. Only in that way will he actually listen to you. 

Price and Expenses of a Basset Hound/Pitbull Mix Puppy

A Basset Hound Pitbull hybrid can be adopted for around $300, depending on the rescue organization. Prior Bully experience may be necessary for adoption, so keep that in mind. A Basset Hound Pitbull puppy can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 depending on the breeder.

However, compared to the costs of keeping a hybrid dog as a companion, the cost of adopting a puppy is a drop in the bucket. Vaccinations and checkups for your dog might cost anywhere from $100 to $300 every visit. Spaying or neutering your pet can cost anything from $150 to $700. The cost of an annual veterinarian visit and lab tests ranges from $300 to $600.

The cost of a year’s worth of high-quality dog food and treats can range from $250 to $700. If your dog need a special diet, make sure you budget for more. Grooming supplies and services can cost anything from $30 to $500 per year. To save money on this extra expense, learn how to groom your dog yourself. Other items your dog may require are a leash and collar ($20 to $50), a dog bed ($50 to $200), and toys ($25 to $150).

Are they good pets?

Yes, a Basset Hound Pitbull Mix may make a wonderful pet and get along with just about anyone. Even though you might think they are aggressive because of their Pitbull parents, these pups are actually sweethearts. No dog is ever aggressive by nature, but by bad training. A well-socialized dog will know how to act towards strangers. 

This magnificent dog breed would make a wonderful addition to any household if properly trained and socialized. To make this happen, however, suitable socialization and training are required. They are prone to inherited health issues, but with proper care, you can keep your Pit Basset Hound Mix as healthy as possible.

When it comes to kids, Pitbulls are known to be ‘nanny dogs’. They absolutely love kids and are very protective of them. And the same goes for this crossbreed as well. However, you can’t leave your kids and dogs unsupervised. These are very large and strong dogs, and they could easily knock over a toddler. 

The largest issue will be if there are other dogs in the house, as the Pitbull can be dangerous to other animals on occasion. But if they are introduced to other dogs and cats early on, they will get used to them and no incidents should ever happen. We really can’t stress this enough, but only early socialization can help with that as well. 

Is this the breed for me?

Pitbull Basset Hound Mixes, as previously stated, are a hybrid dog breed, and you can never be sure of their temperament since Basset Hound Pitbull Mixes will have incredibly distinct behavioral features that are wholly based on their parents’ genetics.

The Pitbull Basset Hound Mix is bound to differ from other pure breed dog breeds, and each puppy will have its own personality. They are not less popular due to their appealing appearance. Their adorable personalities, as well as their incredible fury, are becoming more well-known.

They could be extremely loyal and caring to a member of your family. The Pitbull Basset Hound Mix appears to be a confident, loyal, obedient, tranquil, gorgeous, sociable, and sweet-tempered canine breed.

Let me tell you about the temperament of the parents: a Pitbull is a brave, obedient, beautiful, intelligent, strong-willed, and obstinate dog. When it comes to disposition, the Basset Hound appears to be a very loyal, sweet-tempered, tranquil, friendly, amusing, and loving dog breed.

Both of its parents appear to have diametrically different temperaments, but let me tell you, how much of each parent’s side the puppy inherits is all that matters.

The Pitbull Basset Hound Mix will have a distinct personality because to the temperamental differences between the parents. Pitbull Basset Hound Mixes, on the other hand, have been observed to be highly natural, sociable, and yes, protective and vigilant—making them an outstanding watchdog.

Let’s say you’re looking for a great watchdog that can also be a good companion for your kids and get along with other canine breeds. In such situation, the Basset Hound Pitbull Mix is a good choice, as they can be highly friendly if properly trained, while being aggressive against strangers. They are a very intelligent and intelligent dog breed that is also very easy to train.