Appearance of the Basset Shepherd
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| Basset Shepherds will reflect the traits of both parent breeds. For example, while the Basset Shepherd has the body type of the Basset hound, with shorter legs and a long body, it tends to have the colors and facial features of the German Shepherd. Soft ears shorter than the Basset Hound frame the breed's pointed muzzle, and its dark brown eyes are lively and full of intelligence. While German Shepherds can weigh up to 41 kilos, a typical Basset Shepherd will weigh 34 kilos at most. This breed stands at around 30.5 to 51 centimeters at the withers, and generally takes after the short-legged Basset Hound. The Basset Shepherd's color patterns mimic those of a German Shepherd: dark muzzle, brown eyes and tan body with a black blanket covering the back. |
Temperament of the Basset Shepherd
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| By combining the personalities of two different dogs, you're sure to get a wide range of traits in the new breed. This also means that it's difficult to determine exactly how your dog will behave. However, when it comes to the Basset Shepherd, the usual behavior tends to be a calm, courageous and affectionate dog, easily trainable and ideal for children of all ages. These good traits are due to the intelligence of both breeds and the gentle disposition each possesses. While the Basset Hound can be a little stubborn and is known to be a good guard and hunting dog, it is generally very temperate and non-aggressive. The German Shepherd is confident and fearless, with a good temperament and easy trainability. It's important to remember that, whatever the breed, when getting a new dog, early socialization is everything. By allowing your dog to spend plenty of time with other animals and people, you'll help him become his best self. Overall, the Basset Shepherd is a great dog with an easygoing personality that's ready to please, ideal for any family and novice dog owner. |
Needs and activities of the Basset Shepherd
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| There's no doubt that with a history as a hunting and working dog, the Basset Shepherd has high energy levels and requires a decent amount of exercise per day. The Basset Hound has been used as a hunting companion for generations, and although a more laid-back character, the Basset is still very energetic and needs to release it productively. The German Shepherd, although more energetic, is just like the Basset Hound in that it is a working breed and requires exercise to maintain its productive energy consumption. There are many ways to get your dog the exercise he needs, from training, jogging, long walks, dog parks, hiking and more. Whatever works best for you, make sure you spend quality active time with your Basset Shepherd. While they make excellent companion dogs, a lack of exercise can make them destructive and even overweight. Because they have high to very high energy levels, take the time to exercise your pet properly to maintain good behavior and overall health. |
Maintenance of the Basset Shepherd
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| As with any dog breed, general maintenance is very important to keep your pet fit and beautiful. Because both of the Basset Shepherd's parent breeds tend to shed moderately to heavily, be prepared to groom your dog often to keep shedding to a manageable level. You may want to brush your Basset Shepherd at least twice a week with a rubber brush, and bathe him if necessary. In addition to regular brushing, be sure to clean your dog's ears often. With folded ears, extra moisture and foreign bodies can get caught in the ears, leading to infection and irritation. Always dry ears thoroughly after cleaning or bathing. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks or so to keep feet healthy. If you can hear your dog's nails clicking against the ground as he walks, it's time for a trim. |
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