Is a Basset Hound Chihuahua Mix Right for You?

Looking for a new puppy in a world with endless options is never easy. Everywhere you look, you are bombarded with super cute pictures of different dog breeds.

When you look them up, many have all the things you are looking for. Well, every dog owner has been there before.

To help make things easy for you, we will tell you all you need to know about the rare Basset Hound Chihuahua mix.

Hopefully, after reading the post, you will be able to make a decision whether this mix is right for you or not.

The Breed at a Glance

As the name goes, the mix is a cross between the Chihuahua and the Basset hound.

This dog often takes after the small size of the Chi and the strength of the Basset hound.

It comes with a giant round head, a short and pointed muzzle, thin lips, big eyes that are round and widely spaced, and large ears.

He can have long or short hair. The facial features mostly resemble those of the Chihuahua but it is not uncommon to come across one with droopy ears, mournful eyes, short crooked legs, and a wrinkled face.

Either way, this mix is easy on the eyes. The mix, for some reason, has the longest life span in the dog world.

Pros of owning a Basset hound Chihuahua mix

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Like all dog breeds, there’s the good and bad to owning the Basset hound Chihuahua mix. Let’s take a look at the good.

1. Affection

Both the Basset hound and the Chihuahua are big on affection department. They are both friendly and easygoing.

From giving cuddles to jumping on their owners to curling next to them in bed, these breeds thrive in human company.

If you are looking for a breed that is always looking to bond with you, loves to go for an adventure with you, or snuggle with you, this mix will not disappoint you.

2. Loyalty

The Chihuahua is called “a big dog in a small body” for a reason. He goes to great lengths to protect those he loves.

If a stray dog threatens his security or those of the ones he loves, will not hesitate to go against them.

With only 3-6 pounds to throw around, he is always the smallest dog in the fight but that doesn’t affect his self-esteem the least bit.

The Basset hound is also very loyal and protective of his owners. He was raised in a pack and thus has had to learn the art of staying loyal and protective of his team.

3. Intelligence

The basset hound Chihuahua mix is no doubt an intelligent breed. Both parents score very high in the smarts department.

Chihuahuas always do well in obedience training as well as agility sports. They are fast learners and pick up commands quite fast.

Basset hounds have a reputation of being dumb, thanks to their laid-back and low-energy dispositions.

However, they are very intelligent and excel as scent dogs.

4. Low Energy Requirements

Having a low-energy breed can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on the individual. Some prefer active dogs as they make great jogging and running buddies.

However, a large majority of us would rather have a dog that doesn’t require three walks in a day.

No one has the time to go on walks all day long. If you are this person, you are a perfect candidate for the basset hound Chihuahua mix.

A 30-minute walk every day is enough to help him burn off excess energy, learn endurance, and simply stay in shape.

5. Minimal Grooming Requirements

For the most part, the Basset hound Chihuahua mix has a smooth coat.

In this case, grooming is very easy. Brushing the coat once a week will keep it looking neat and remove loose hairs.

However, if you end up with a dog with long fur on his coat, you will need to increase the frequency of brushing to about three times a week.

Bathing is once a month.

6. Good Family Dog

When properly trained and socialized, a Basset hound Chihuahua mix makes a great companion for many family settings.

If you have small kids, he will love hanging out and playing with them.

Don’t make the mistake of adopting this mix in a family with young kids and pets without training and socialization. Things can go south fast.

Cons

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1. Barking

The Basset hound Chihuahua mix can be an aggressive barker. Both parents use their mouths more than your average dog.

They bark when a stranger approaches the house, when they see other dogs, when they are happy or sad, when they are bored, you name it. Blame it on their natural instinct to protect their owners.

If you live in an apartment or have a newborn, this mix might not be the best for you.

2. Stubbornness

Smart dogs are the best with regard to learning commands in record time.

Unfortunately, these canines also tend to be stubborn. They want to have their way during training just to show you they are in charge.

The Basset hound Chihuahua mix fits this description. To bring out the best in him, you have to be firm, patient, and creative to get him focused on the training.

If you don’t have the guts to take on training him, have a professional trainer take care of that for you.

3. Digging Tendency

Not all Basset hound Chihuahua mixes are passionate diggers but if they take after the Basset hound, they are likely to adopt the behavior.

This breed is a scent hound. His scenting skills only come second to the Bloodhound.

When you walk around him, you will notice him exploring his world through his nose. His short legs allow him to dig underground to uncover prey.

If you cannot deal with digging, you are better off having another dog breed.

Final Thoughts

A Basset hound Chihuahua mix is not a dog for everyone.

He may be affectionate, friendly, intelligent, laid-back, and requires little in the way of grooming but he has challenges of his own.

If you are not ready to deal with a noisy, stubborn, and digging dog, this mix is definitely not for you.

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