The Basset Retriever is a cross between the Basset Hound and the Golden Retriever. This mix results in a clever, lively dog that is eager to please its owner. However, predicting personality traits can be challenging since it depends on which breed is more dominant in the mix. If the Golden Retriever traits dominate, you can expect your Basset Retriever to be eager to please, fiercely loyal, and full of energy. On the other hand, if the Basset Hound traits are more dominant, your dog may exhibit stubbornness, laziness, and barking. Both breeds are excellent hunters, so your Basset Retriever is likely to share these traits.
The Basset Retriever can thrive in any size environment as long as they receive some form of daily activity. Grooming needs will vary depending on the coat length that is more prevalent in your dog. Golden Retrievers have longer fur and should be combed to remove mats, while Basset Hounds have shorter hair and only require occasional brushing with a rubber brush. This breed is often used as a companion animal or for field trials. They are friendly and get along well with children.
Below, we look at Basset Retriever dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Basset Retriever, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Basset Retrievers!
| Dog Breed | Basset Retriever |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 40-70 lbs (average) |
| Height | 10-12″ (average) |
| Location | France |
| Ancestry | Basset Hound, Golden Retriever |
| Date of Origin | 2000s |
| Group | Hunting, Field Trials, Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Price | $1000 – $2000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Basset Retriever is a relatively new breed, likely created about 10 to 15 years ago. As a result, there is still limited information available about this breed as a whole. However, we do know that the Basset Retriever is a combination of the Basset Hound and Golden Retriever, two breeds initially mixed in France. The result is a dog that possesses qualities such as hard work, loyalty, eagerness to please, friendliness, determination, and intelligence. Whether you are seeking a hunting companion or a wonderful family pet, the Basset Retriever is an excellent choice.
The Basset Hound, known for its use as a hunting dog, originated in France in the 7th century. They are a stubborn yet dependable breed, with a goofy personality. Basset Hounds gained popularity in America during the early 19th century, both as hunting dogs and loyal companions. On the other hand, Golden Retrievers are known for their liveliness, playfulness, gentle nature, and strong desire to please. Originally created as hunting and companion dogs during the Victorian era, they were officially recognized as a breed in 1932. The Basset Retriever, combining the traits of these two breeds, is a well-rounded, hardworking, and loyal dog that is devoted to its family.
🐕 Basset Retriever Appearance
Given that the Basset Retriever is a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Basset Hound, it will inherit traits from both parent breeds. The Basset Retriever often has the hair and facial characteristics of the Golden Retriever while being short and low to the ground like the Basset Hound. Basset Hounds often have a very short, thick coat, very long ears, and a drooping face. Golden retrievers, on the other hand, have sharp eyes and a small, almost delicate face. They are very quick on their feet. They have folded ears, although they are not particularly long. Basset Retrievers may grow to be between 10 and 14 inches tall and weigh up to 70 pounds. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that this breed is prone to obesity, thus the Basset Retriever’s weight has to be carefully monitored. It is hard to predict exactly how these puppies will seem because the traits of each parent breed will differ significantly. The possibility still exists for them to have long or short fur, short or long legs, and bright, perceptive eyes on their face.
| 👀 Eye Color | Varies |
| 🐽 Nose Color | N/A |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Ranges |
⚡ Fun Fact: Basset Retriever dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Basset Retriever
There is no denying that the personality of the Basset Hound and the Golden Retriever are just somewhat different. One is very motivated and eager to please, whilst the other is more relaxed and occasionally obstinate. The Basset Retriever is a dog that combines these qualities to make it charming, relaxed, and highly sociable. They generally have extremely calm personalities and are not often angered or agitated, which makes them excellent family dogs! They genuinely like being around humans, including both adults and children as well as other animals. When it comes to a Basset Retriever, there are actually no strangers. Expect your Basset Retriever to require a fair amount of fun each day since both of the parent breeds have a tendency to demand exercise to let off stress. As long as you start early, it shouldn’t be difficult to teach them how to behave because they are quite bright and simple to train. The Basset Retriever has a strong desire to please its master and will make every effort to pick up whatever lessons you are attempting to teach them. The Basset Retriever, like the Basset Hound, may occasionally have a tendency to bark or bay, but mostly they are a peaceful breed. This is in contrast to the Golden Retriever who may be quite quiet.
🤝 Are Basset Retrievers Friendly or Aggressive?
The Basset Retriever breed is known for its friendly nature. They are very welcoming to strangers and get along well with both kids and cats. They enjoy the company of children and are also friendly towards other dogs, making them a great choice for families with multiple dogs or those who want to participate in dog meetups. Additionally, Basset Retrievers are considered one of the best breeds for elderly people due to their gentle and easygoing temperament.
This breed is known for being:
- Intelligent
- Confident
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Reliable
- Devoted
- Gentle
- Tempered
- Kind
- Sweet
- Tenacious
- Trustworthy
🐩 Basset Retriever Care & Maintenance
When it comes to upkeep, teeth brushing, nail cutting, brushing, and ear inspections are some of the top considerations for every dog. The folded-over ears of the Basset Retriever make frequent cleanings necessary to avoid infection. After a bath, make sure to completely dry the ears to avoid any residual moisture building up there. To keep the paws healthy and free of anything that might snag or scratch, nails should be cut every few weeks. It’s time for a trim if you can hear your dog’s nails clicking as they move over the floor! Brushing will change differently depending on whether your Basset Retriever has short or long hair. A rake comb is excellent for removing knots if your dog has hair that is a little longer. To remove any debris or loose hair from the body, brush shorter hair with a rubber brush. As the Basset Retriever performs significant seasonal shed, this grooming regimen should be performed at least a few times each week. Baths should only be taken when necessary.
Basset Retriever dogs have a moderate shedding tendency due to the natural hair growth cycle. Regular brushing can help minimize the amount of hair they shed. The shedding amount may vary depending on their overall health and the specific breed they belong to. As for bathing, it is generally recommended to give Basset Retrievers a bath every 4-6 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or approximately $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Basset Retriever dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Basset Retriever dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Basset Retriever Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Basset Retriever Dog Breed can be:
- Glaucoma
- Elbow
- Platelet Dysfunction
While minor concerns include:
- Entropion
- Cherry Eye
- Cataracts
🤧 Important: Is Basset Retriever hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Basset Retriever.
⚡ Basset Retriever Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Basset Retriever a great choice for families with young children?
The Basset Retriever’s calm and mild-natured personality makes it a great choice for families with young children. They enjoy the company of people and are not easily provoked to aggression or anger, making them very safe around children.
Is the Basset Retriever breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Although the Basset Retriever requires a decent amount of exercise, it can adapt well to apartment living as long as it gets some sort of exercise throughout the day. They are not excessively high energy and can be satisfied with regular playtime.
How much exercise does a Basset Retriever require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Basset Retriever requires a moderate amount of exercise. They have a hunting instinct and enjoy activities that engage their sense of smell, so they will benefit from daily walks and playtime.
Is the Basset Retriever breed known for being good with other pets?
Yes, the Basset Retriever breed is known for being good with other pets. They are friendly and enjoy the company of both humans and animals. They tend to get along well with other pets in the household.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Basset Retriever?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Basset Retriever include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Beagle, and the English Bulldog. These breeds have relatively low exercise and grooming needs.
What are the common health issues that Basset Retrievers are prone to?
Common health issues that Basset Retrievers are prone to include hip dysplasia, ear infections, obesity, and allergies. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help prevent and manage these issues.
Are Basset Retrievers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Basset Retrievers are generally easy to train due to their high intelligence and eagerness to please. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Are Basset Retrievers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Basset Retrievers can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if not properly socialized and trained. They form strong bonds with their owners and may experience distress when left alone for long periods. It’s important to gradually acclimate them to alone time and provide mental stimulation in their absence.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Basset Retriever that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Basset Retriever that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle, the Bichon Frise, and the Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Basset Retriever are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Basset Retriever, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or the Beagle, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds can adapt well to smaller living spaces.
Is the Basset Retriever breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Basset Retriever breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their calm and friendly nature makes them patient and gentle companions for children of all abilities.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Basset Retriever?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Basset Retriever are moderate. Depending on which coat length is more dominant, they may require regular brushing to remove tangles or occasional grooming with a rubber brush. They do shed, but not excessively, and regular grooming can help manage the shedding.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Basset Retriever dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
