Bassador

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 10-12 years
The Bassador is a cross between the Basset Hound and the Labrador Retriever. Like all hybrid breeds, the Bassador is less likely to inherit hereditary health problems than his purebred counterparts. However, he may experience health issues that are common to either parent breed.

Hip dysplasia, which occurs when a malformed hip joint prevents the thighbone from fitting into place, may impact some Bassadors. Hip dysplasia can lead to discomfort, pain, and limping. In more severe cases, arthritis or even lameness can result, and surgery may be required. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not breed, so ensure that your prospective puppy’s parents have no history of the condition. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia can be triggered by rapid weight gain or injury. While your puppy’s joints are still developing, ensure that he does not jump excessively or run on slippery floors.

Bloat may also be an issue for the Bassador. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas, fluid, or food, expanding dangerously and putting excess pressure on surrounding organs. In some cases, the stomach twists in what is called gastric torsion, trapping blood in the stomach and preventing it from flowing to vital areas such as the heart. Bloat can be deadly, so get your Bassador to the veterinarian right away if you observe symptoms such as pale gums, excessive drooling, failed attempts to vomit, or a swollen stomach. Your veterinarian will remove excess air from your dog’s stomach with a stomach tube or a hollow needle. If your dog’s stomach has twisted, surgery will be required to reposition it. If untreated, bloat can become fatal in a matter of a few hours. Even with treatment, up to 33% of dogs with the condition are likely to die.

The Bassador may also experience back problems and eye diseases such as glaucoma. He may be prone to obesity as well, which can exacerbate joint and back issues.

The average life expectancy for the Bassador is 10-12 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

As with all hybrid breeds, the Bassador’s temperament may vary. This applies particularly to the Bassador because his parent breeds are very different from one another. However, the average Bassador is good-natured and enjoys hunting. His energy level can range from calm to active and energetic, depending on which parent he takes after.

On average, the Bassador has moderate exercise needs. A long walk and some active play sessions daily should be sufficient. Ensure that your yard is securely fenced because this hunting dog is prone to wandering and pursuing interesting scents. Although he enjoys spending time outdoors, the Bassador is a companion dog who should be inside with his people, with whom he bonds very strongly. If the loving Bassador does not receive sufficient companionship, he may become depressed and destructive. Be aware that he may drool quite a bit, so be prepared to wipe his face and clean up after him often.

If raised with them, the Bassador can get along well with children and most other pets. He may be too energetic and rowdy for younger children, as his horseplay may scare or accidentally injure them. There is also a strong possibility that he will pursue smaller pets, particularly cats, due to his high prey drive. He tends to be polite or friendly with strangers and should not be shy or aggressive.

The Bassador is typically intelligent, but his trainability depends on whether he takes after the Basset Hound or the Labrador Retriever. A Basset is likely to be uninterested in training and particularly hard-headed, although a Labrador is more willing and eager to please. Keep sessions short and fun, and use positive reinforcement such as extra playtime, favorite treats, or encouraging verbal praise when earned. With a bit of patience and firm, consistent leadership, most Bassadors should not be overly difficult to train.

Grooming

The Bassador’s short, smooth coat is likely to shed heavily, as is the case for both parent breeds. Daily brushing is recommended to reduce shedding and to maintain the coat’s healthy appearance. Bathe the Bassador as needed, and keep any facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent infection.

Trim his nails as needed, typically every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and cracking. Check his ears regularly for signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, and odor. Brush his teeth at least 2-3 times each week to prevent bad breath and maintain good overall health.

Diet

On average, the Bassador should consume 3-4 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily. The ideal type and amount of food for your individual dog will depend on factors such as age, weight, build, activity level, and metabolism. Be careful when feeding your Bassador, because he can be prone to obesity. Monitor his consumption and weight to avoid the health problems associated with rapid weight gain.

Take precautions against bloat by ensuring that your Bassador does not eat too quickly. Also prevent him from drinking excessive amounts of water right before or after eating, and impose a one hour waiting period between eating and physical activity. Do not feed your Bassador from a raised food bowl unless your veterinarian instructs otherwise.

Ensure that your Bassador has access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times.
 

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Cost

The average Bassador costs $300-$800. Pricing may vary according to breeder location and reputation, gender, and the puppy’s parentage.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Bassador ranks a 2. He can get along well with most people and pets, and he has only moderate exercise needs. However, he can be challenging to train, and his somewhat high maintenance coat sheds heavily. Additionally, due to the vast differences between his two parent breeds, the Bassador’s overall temperament is especially difficult to predict.

 

Basset Hound

Labrador Retriever

Golden Retriever

Dachshund