Interesting Information About The Beagle Basset Hound
What a gentle, sweet-loving mix the Beagle Basset Hound is. This is a social breed that adores the company of humans. Being derived from the Basset Hound and the Beagle, they certainly have the best qualities of both breeds.
They are curious, independent and have a natural hunting instinct and with their loyal and obedient nature, they are a perfect choice for a family with children and other pets.
The Beagle Basset Hound is a medium-sized, low-shedding dog that has a long life expectancy of right around 12 years. They make exceptional watchdogs however, they may bark a little more than you appreciate at times.
Beagle History
Beagles originated in England in the 16th century. Initially, they were bred for tracking and hunting small animals such as pheasant, hare, rabbits and quail. The breed has always been highly celebrated for the way that they can be used to hunt alone or as part of a pack.
However, it was the Beagle’s cheerful and loveable disposition that has allowed these dogs to maintain their popularity as family pets. They were recognized in 1885 as an AKC breed.
Basset Hound History
Originating in France in the 16th century, medieval monks developed this sweet hound to track fox, pheasant, possum and hare. Not only did the dog have an excellent sense of smell, they were ideal companions to hunters on foot because they were slow moving and never scared animals away.
These dogs also are able to hunt alone or as pack which is one of the reasons why they were ideal to breed to create the Beagle Basset Hound. This breed was also recognized by the AKC in 1885.
Temperament
Since both of these dogs are so full of personality, it only makes sense that the Beagle Basset Hound would have an exceptional temperament. While the Basset Hound is sweet and calm by nature, the Beagle’s excited and playful traits blend well to create a dog that has a lot of energy but is also content just sitting by your side.
Both breeds can be a little independent and stubborn so it is important to engage in obedience training at a young age to ensure that your dog is a loyal and devoted dog with manners. While the Beagle Basset Hound does bark more than some other breeds, it is not nearly as much as you would deal with from a pure bred Beagle.
The Beagle Basset Hound really prefers to always be around his pack so the bigger the family, the better. These are not dogs that appreciate being left alone for long periods of time.
Grooming
These are fairly low maintenance dogs in the grooming department. They have a smooth, dense coat that is easy to manage by brushing with a bristle brush at least every other day. It is also important to clean and check their ears often to prevent dirt from building up.
To maintain proper dental hygiene, brush your dog’s teeth every other day and clip the nails once a week. These dogs do not need to be bathed an excessive amount, basically just when they are dirty. After bathing, be sure to dry their ears.
Exercise
The Beagle Basset Hound needs plenty of daily exercise. While he should be able to run a few times throughout the day to burn some energy, he will also enjoy a daily walk with you. These dogs are typically lazy and relaxed indoors but really come alive with energy as soon as they are released outdoors in fresh air.
Due to the natural hunting instinct, they must have a fenced in yard and should never be taken off their lead or they will wander, especially if they pick up the scent of something interesting.
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