Basset Retriever

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Short, chunky, and adorable, the Basset Retriever is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Basset Hound. Both parent breeds have no known major health issues that are inherent in their bloodlines. However, there are a few minor health issues that could become prevalent in the Basset Retriever later in life. Most of these minor health concerns are age-related, as the immune system of dogs change as they age. To keep your Basset Retriever healthy for the duration of her life, schedule regular vet check-ups and keep her up-to-date on vaccinations.

Ear Infections – Basset Retrievers have floppy ears that hang folded over, thanks to their Basset Hound genetics. The overhang on their ears collects dust, debris, and gunk throughout the day. If this build-up is left uncleaned, it can result in ear infections. If the ear infection goes without treatment, it could lead to more serious conditions, like deafness. Keep your Basset Retriever’s ears clean with once-a-week cleanings with a vet-recommended wash and soft swab.

Weight-Related Problems – Obesity is prevalent in Basset Retrievers. They can overeat quickly without being hungry, but they have a natural drive that tells them they need to eat food while they have food. And, of course, obesity leads to more serious conditions, such as joint problems and a possible heart attack, if the pup remains overweight for a long period. Feed your Basset Retriever a wholesome, hearty diet of high-quality dry food to keep their weight under control.

Other minor health issues that might affect your Basset Retriever include dental decay, joint problems, and skin allergies. These pups live an average of 10-12 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

Basset Retrievers are some of the sweetest, friendliest, gentlest crossbreed canines you’ll ever meet. They have a bit of a stubborn streak, thanks to their Golden Retriever genetics, but they’re also loyal, protective, and kind. They are the perfect family pet for people with small children or other pets. However, make sure you teach your kids how to properly handle and pet your Basset Retriever. Most dogs, if incorrectly handled or hurt, will lash out with warning nips.

The Basset Retriever gets her keen intelligence from her Golden Retriever side. As mentioned, she can be stubborn, however using a clear, confident voice to relay your commands will help. She has to understand that you are the boss, the pack leader, and the alpha. When she comprehends your status, it will be easier for you to teach her to listen and comply.

Reward her for obedience. If she displays stubbornness, keep a level-head and stay calm along with being a little extra patient. Never strike, scream, or hurt a dog because they won’t listen to you and also because that is just wrong. Negative behavior on your part could spark aggression in your pup. Instead, treat your Basset Retriever with love, affection, and kindness.

Grooming

The Basset Retriever typically has a mix of the short, coarse Basset Hound hair and the lengthy, loose Golden Retriever hair. It could be a variation of genetics, but most of these pups regularly shed, particularly during the summertime. Brush her coat once a day to remove excess hair and keep tangles at bay. You could also schedule a professional brush and trim for your Basset Retriever at a groomer.

Basset Retriever’s are easy to groom and take care of. They require a bath and nail trim once a month, teeth brushing 3 times a week, and ear cleaning once a week. Easy-peasy! However, sometimes your Basset Retriever might roll in dirt or something gunky outside. In this case, you can give her a bath whenever she needs one. Be sure to use dog shampoo, not people shampoo, to preserve her natural skin oils.

Diet

Basset Retrievers have a knack for overeating. You should control their diet with a feeding schedule. This will get them used to eating in a routine, and they will be less likely to beg for food in-between meals. Feed your Basset Retriever 3 cups of dry kibble, divided into two meals per day. The kibble should be high-quality, comprised of mainly whole grains and lean meats. Read the ingredients label thoroughly to determine which brand would be the most nutritious.

Due to their predisposition for obesity, it’s important to avoid giving your Basset Retriever table-food or snacks throughout the day. Treats are fine, but make sure they are bite-sized and meaty. Don’t dole out treats more than twice a day. And only give your Basset Retriever treats if she shows good behavior or does well with her training.
 

Find A Basset Retriever Breeder

Basset Retriever Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Basset Retriever

Cost

If you are looking into introducing a Basset Retriever into your family, try adoption first. You will be giving a dog a second chance at finding its forever home. Check your local shelters and dog rescues to see if anyone knows where you can adopt a Basset Retriever. If you find one for adoption, fees vary from $150 to $300, depending on the history and age of the pup.

If you go to a breeder for your Basset Retriever, you can expect to pay $700 to $950. This price depends on a number of things, like gender, color, and breeding ability. If you tell the breeder that you plan to spay or neuter your Basset Retriever, you might get away with paying the bare minimum for your new family companion. Most breeders ask fellow breeders to pay more.

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. Due to her friendliness and gentle disposition, the Basset Retriever ranks a 1.5 on the Paws ‘N’ Pups scale. The only negative is the cost, as these pups are expensive and require good-quality food, routine vet check-ups, and plenty of toys to occupy their minds. Otherwise, the Basset Retriever makes a great family companion, especially for families with small children or other pets.

 

Golden Retriever

Basset Hound

Beagle

Gordon Setter