Basset Hound German Shepherd Hybrid Cross Mix Dog Breed Guide
It is now possible for anyone with a love for German Shepherd dogs and Basset Hounds to get these dogs in one breed with the Basset Shepherd. Some breeders focus on multi-generation dogs, while others have the 50-50 first generation Basset Shepherd.
In terms of size and appearances, dogs of this mix will vary from one to the other. This is because the dogs will develop traits that are unique to both parents. Generally, these dogs are available in a white, brown, or black color, and they can weigh between 50 – 75 pounds.
The Basset Shepherd has a lifespan of 10 – 14 years, with the dogs measuring 12 – 20 inches in height. They are friendly and calm, and they are suitable for owners with high-energy levels and families of different sizes. However, the variation in these dogs’ sizes makes it difficult for individuals to determine if their home space will be suitable for the dogs as adults.
This article will provide all the essential information you need to help you determine if this breed is the right fit for your family.
Basset Shepherd Puppies – What to Know Before Buying
Everyone loves a dog with admirable traits – and that’s what you get with the Basset Shepherd. It combines the excellent qualities of the Basset Hound and German Shepherd. Nonetheless, the side of their ancestry from which they inherit their behavioral tendencies will determine their temperament.
Although it is possible to get a combination of both ancestries, it is common to get a puppy with the temperament of a Basset Hound or a German Shepherd. Knowing your dog’s behavior is essential, but regardless of what side of its ancestry it gets its behavior from, you won’t have any issue.
Socializing and training the puppy from an early stage is crucial. Ensure there is a training routine in place from an early stage to get the dog to understand basic commands and rules like sit, stop, come, etc. The breed can be stubborn, but they are also very intelligent.
Another reason for early socialization and training is to help them expel excess energy levels. This will help them remain well behaved and calm when you go on walks, interact with others, or have guests in the home.
To prevent them from disobeying you at any time, it is necessary to establish yourself as the alpha while the dog is still a puppy.
How Much Can I Get a Basset Shepherd?
The price of a Basset Shepherd can be as low as $800 to as high as $2000. This high price is due to the difficulty in finding breeders with these pups. Although the Basset Shepherd doesn’t have many health problems to trouble you, it is crucial you still buy from a reputable breeder.
Since these breeders are more interested in the dogs’ well-being than the profits, you’re sure that they are well taken care of before purchasing them.
Basset Shepherd Facts
There are some things you should know about the Basset Shepherd before buying, and this is excellent information for anyone having second thoughts about getting this dog breed.
They are excellent Guard Dogs
The Basset Shepherd is an alert dog capable of noting and observing everything happening in its surroundings. As an offspring of both the German Shepherd and Basset Hound, two breeds of high intelligence, the Basset Shepherd is also a very smart dog.
This makes it possible for the breed to identify threats and abnormalities with ease. The dogs aren’t aggressive, and they will only take action if they determine that there is a threat to you or your family’s safety. Since they only bark when it’s necessary, you will know if there is any threat.
They are Excellent Around Children
A considerable benefit of a Basset Shepherd is that the way it conducts itself with children is a trait it gets from both sides of its ancestry. This implies that regardless of what parent it gets these traits from, they will remain protective and caring towards your kids.
This breed is also great for homes where playdates will be expected since it will exhibit the same behavior towards other kids. Understanding and patience are two common traits the Basset Shepherd exhibits towards children.
Despite these excellent traits, it is necessary to supervise the dogs when they are with kids. Due to their high energy levels, they may sometimes cause accidental injury to kids.
Great as Work Dogs and for Companionship
Despite being a hybrid dog, the Basset Shepherd is always willing to help when there is work to be done. Since both parents are working dogs, this is understandable. It is crucial you get the Basset Shepherd work to do as they may become destructive if they feel they don’t offer value to the family.
If you want a companion dog, then the Basset Shepherd can also fill this role with ease. They will do all they can for their master while remaining loyal and loving. When you’re not working in the yard, these affectionate dogs are great for relaxing and snuggling.
Intelligence and Shepherd Hound Mix Temperament
When appropriately trained, the Basset Shepherd is a dog that exhibits extreme respect and loyalty to its owners. These traits, in addition to being affectionate, make these dogs great companion dogs. Their response to you as the owner is due to their understanding of their standing.
This understanding is a result of the breed being emotionally mature and intelligent. Through training, the dogs will understand their role in the family and will seek to please their masters at every opportunity. They don’t engage in any form of mischief and will protect and love you.
Can I Keep A Basset Shepherd as a Family Dog?
The friendliness of a Basset Shepherd is the main reason why it is a great family dog. It will instantly become friends with every member of the family, and can even make friends with guests. For anyone willing, they can spend time with the dog.
Despite making friends with everyone, their response to each family member will differ. This is because these dogs can separate their equals from the leader. Hence, it would be best if you established yourself as the leader early on.
There is no cause for worry. However, it is necessary to understand that the dog will rank various family members and respond to them based on this rank. Finding positive ways to keep a Basset Shepherd active is also necessary. If you’re unable to do this, then owning them can become a hassle.
The breed may not be the right fit for your family if everyone is unavailable for long periods or work long hours. If there will be someone at home at every time of the day, then getting this breed is a great idea. Having many people around the house to interact with the dog is excellent since they enjoy this interaction.
How Do They Behave with Other Pets?
Unless you have small rodents as pets, the Basset Shepherd will get along with other pets. Their prey drive, although moderate, is a minor cause for concern with small rodents. If you have other dogs or cats in the home, then the Basset Shepherd will be friendly towards these pets.
A unique trait of this breed is that they love cats. So, they can be the right breed for individuals that intend to have a kitten and puppy grow up together. These dogs will exhibit the same gentleness and patience they have towards kids when interacting with the cat.
Information Every Basset Shepherd Owner Should Know
Food and Diet Requirements of The Breed
The size of the Basset Shepherd will determine how much food it will need. This implies that the smaller dogs will require less food while the larger dogs will require more. If you have a small Basset Shepherd, then two cups of food should be enough, while individuals with a large Basset Shepherd will need to provide up to three cups of food a day.
The food should be divided into two meals, and it is also a good idea to get the opinion of your veterinarian. Obesity and weight gain are common issues with this dog, and you will need to be extra careful.
If given the opportunity, your Basset Shepherd will overeat. Therefore, feeding practices such as leaving food out and feeding the dog when it’s hungry isn’t acceptable. Stick to the recommendation of the dog food manufacturer or your vet when feeding.
Purchasing food with the essential nutrients in the right quantity is also necessary in addition to scheduling and providing the right amount of food.
Exercise and Stimulation
A Basset Shepherd needs lots of exercises to expend its excess energy. Its high energy level comes from its parent breeds, which are working dogs. An hour of exercise every day is recommended in addition to playtime.
By getting your dog to engage in regular exercise, you can prevent destructive behavior and avoid breeding an overweight Basset Shepherd. Mental stimulation is also necessary since you’re training a dog with high intelligence.
Nature walks and hikes will do a lot of good for this breed since it is an excellent combination of mental and physical exercise due to the unfamiliar scents and sounds the dog can explore. You can also get some toys or treat puzzles.
Dog Training
The Basset Hound is an independent and intelligent dog, while the German Shepherd is a breed that is easy to train. This combination, in the form of the Basset Shepherd, is also effortless to teach and train. However, you need to put in the right effort and exercise patience when training the dog.
One area where you will rely on luck is whether or not your Basset Shepherd obeys you immediately. You can improve their listening skills through regular training sessions with positive reinforcement.
Grooming and General Care
If you don’t like to deal with a lot of shedding, then avoid the Basset Shepherd. The breed has medium length fur with a double coat. Brushing a minimum of twice a week is recommended if you want to prevent tangling and matting of the coat. This can also help reduce shedding.
You can use a wire or rubber brush for this purpose, and a vacuum can help get rid of fur around the home. To maintain a healthy and clean coat, you should bathe the dog at least once a month. Trimming the nails once a month can help prevent breaking or cracking.
Another essential part of grooming a dog is cleaning the ears. This should be done at least once a weak to avoid infection. Invest in chew toys to help maintain excellent dental hygiene for the dog.
Health Conditions
Great news; with the Basset Shepherd, you don’t have to worry about serious health problems. However, this doesn’t imply that they don’t face health challenges. The following are some issues that you can identify and treat early to prevent them from escalating:
Minor Conditions
- Wobbler syndrome.
- Eyes issues such as cherry eye.
Serious Conditions
- Elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Hip dysplasia
Should You Get a Male or Female?
You will need to consider how much space you have when making this decision. The male dogs are usually larger than the females, with a difference in weight of up to fifteen pounds.
There is minimal difference in the behavior and temperament of both sexes; however, if you want a protective and alert Basset Shepherd, then a male is the right option.
Conclusion
One thing to note is that the parent breeds of the Basset Shepherd are breeds of high-quality. With this breed, you have the possibility of getting a dog that is excellent around your kids, right for your family, affectionate, and loving.
The Basset Shepherd can deduce a threat, and this makes it a non-alarmist and less aggressive dog. They are welcoming, outgoing, friendly, and have a controlled temperament.
For anyone looking for a protective dog that is always alert, then the Basset Shepherd is the right dog breed to own.
