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Tzu Basset |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Tibet <> Great Britain -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Tzu Basset |
| The adorable Tzu Basset is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Basset Hound. These adorable canines are small to medium-sized, measuring between 25.5 and 33 centimeters. As adults, most weigh less than 18 kilos. Their coats vary from short and smooth to long, silky and straight. There's also a whole range of colors, including white, brown and brindle. Many are bicolored or tricolored. These small dogs have moderate activity requirements, making them well suited to cities and apartments. Their Basset Hound ancestry, however, gives them a strong tracking instinct, and they can be prone to wandering if not on a leash or in a fenced garden. |
History of the Tzu Basset |
| As the Tzu Basset is a mixed breed, little is known about its history. The breed was born from the blending of two much-loved breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Basset Hound. The result is an affectionate companion with the best characteristics of both breeds. |
A little of the Shih Tzu |
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| The Shih Tzu is another beloved breed with a long history. Originating in China in ancient times, this adorable lapdog was bred as a companion. Believed to be a cross between a Lhasa Apso and a small Chinese dog, such as the Pekingese, it was popular with Chinese royalty and commoners alike. The breed almost became extinct during the Chinese Revolution, but seven females and seven males survived. All modern Shih Tzus are descended from these 14 dogs. Shih Tzus began to travel the world in the 1900s, and many arrived in the United States after the end of the Second World War. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and is currently one of the country's most popular breeds. | ||
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| Standard of the Shih Tzu |
A little of the Basset Hound |
| The Basset Hound originated in France around 1500, and its ancestors are the Basset d'Artois and the Basset Nomade. Other short-legged hounds were also used in the development of the modern Basset Hound. This breed was developed for hunting small animals such as hares and rabbits. Unlike other hounds, the Basset Hound was bred to be slow and easy to follow when hunting. The beloved Basset Hound has made numerous appearances in pop culture and has been officially recognized by the American Kennel Club since 1935. |
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| Standard of the Basset Hound |
Appearance of the Tzu Basset |
| The Tzu Basset is a short, long dog that can vary considerably in size, color and coat type. While many have short, smooth coats like the Basset Hound, others have long, silky, smooth coats more reminiscent of the breed's Shih Tzu roots. The coat comes in many colors, including yellow, white, black, brown, brindle and tricolor. The dog's markings are often similar to those of the Basset Hound. Like the Basset Hound, the Tzu Basset has short legs and a long body. The legs are strong, ending in wide, powerful pads. Floppy ears are common in this breed, and some dogs have the underbite usually associated with the Shih Tzu. |
Temperament of the Tzu Basset |
| The Tzu Basset is an excellent companion. These adorable dogs are known for their cheerful, docile nature, and they tend to be quite affectionate. They enjoy spending time with their owners and don't tend to feel well when left alone. Boredom and loneliness often lead to excessive barking in this breed. They have moderate energy levels and their exercise requirements are not extreme. A brisk walk or a quick game of dodgeball will suffice. However, they can be prone to obesity and need extra activity to keep the weight off. The Tzu Basset is intelligent but sometimes stubborn. They have lots of personality and are eager to please their owners, so most respond well to positive, patient training. |
Needs and activities of the Tzu Basset |
| Tzu Bassets can be quite sedentary. With their low energy levels and love of food, they are prone to obesity. However, this breed loves tracking and will happily spend time enjoying scents on a walk. Because of their low energy levels, they are ideal pets for working people and those living in apartments. They should not be left outside unsupervised, unless in a fenced-in yard, as they tend to wander off following an interesting scent. A few brisk walks or visits to a dog park are enough to give your canine companion the exercise he needs. |
Maintenance of the Tzu Basset |
| While the Shih Tzu sheds very little, the Basset Hound tends to shed a lot. The Tzu Basset, on the other hand, sheds moderately. His Basset Hound ancestry also tends to make him a bit slobbery, and he can have an odor that's hard to get rid of. Tzu Bassets need to be brushed regularly, especially those with long coats. Bathing should also take place regularly to eliminate odors and ensure your companion's health. Nails should be trimmed every three or four weeks, and teeth brushed at least once a week. The Tzu Basset's floppy ears can be prone to infection, so they should be cleaned and inspected at least once a week. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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