The beagle basset hound mix, also known as the bagle hound, is a cross between two popular hound breeds: the beagle and the basset hound. This hybrid dog inherits traits from both of its parents, making it a friendly, loyal, and intelligent companion. However, it also has some unique characteristics that set it apart from other dogs. In this article, we will explore the history, appearance, temperament, health, and care of the beagle basset hound mix.
History of the Beagle Basset Hound Mix
The beagle basset hound mix is a relatively new designer dog that was likely created in the United States sometime in the last few decades. However, its parent breeds have a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times.
The beagle is one of the oldest hound breeds in the world, tracing its origins to ancient Greece and Rome. It was used for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares and was prized for its keen sense of smell, stamina, and agility. The beagle was brought to England by the Normans in the 11th century, where it was further developed and refined. The beagle became a popular pet among royalty and nobility, as well as a favorite of writers such as William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens.
The basset hound is also an ancient breed that originated in France. It was derived from the old French word “bas”, meaning low, referring to its short stature and long body. The basset hound was bred for hunting small game by scent, especially in dense cover and rough terrain. It was favored by aristocrats and hunters for its calm demeanor, endurance, and melodious voice. The basset hound was introduced to America in the late 19th century, where it gained popularity as a show dog and a family pet.
The beagle basset hound mix combines the best of both worlds: the friendly and lively personality of the beagle with the laid-back and loyal temperament of the basset hound. This hybrid dog is suitable for families, seniors, and dog lovers who are looking for a faithful and fun-loving companion.
Appearance of the Beagle Basset Hound Mix
The beagle basset hound mix is a medium-sized dog that can weigh between 33 to 55 pounds and stand between 12 to 17 inches tall. It has a long body, short legs, long ears, droopy eyes, and a square head. It has a short coat that is easy to maintain and comes in various colors such as white, tan, black, red, or a combination of these.
The beagle basset hound mix can inherit different features from either parent breed, so there is no standard look for this hybrid dog. However, some common traits are:
- A long muzzle with a wide nose
- A strong jaw with scissor-like teeth
- A muscular neck with loose skin
- A deep chest with a prominent sternum
- A long tail that curves slightly upwards
- A short coat that sheds moderately
| Feature | Beagle | Basset Hound | Beagle Basset Hound Mix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 13 – 15 inches | 11 – 15 inches | 12 – 17 inches |
| Weight | 18 – 30 pounds | 40 – 60 pounds | 33 – 55 pounds |
| Lifespan | 10 – 15 years | 12 – 13 years | 10 – 15 years |
| Colors | White, tan, black, lemon, red | White, tan, black, red | White, tan, black, red |
Temperament of the Beagle Basset Hound Mix
The beagle basset hound mix is a friendly and affectionate dog that loves being around people and other animals. The beagle basset hound mix is playful and curious, but also lazy and relaxed. It enjoys cuddling on the couch as much as chasing a ball in the yard. It is intelligent and trainable,
but also stubborn and independent. It needs consistent and positive reinforcement to learn new commands and tricks.
Health of the Beagle Basset Hound Mix
The beagle basset hound mix is a relatively healthy breed that can live up to 15 years. However, as with any mixed breed, they can inherit some health problems from their parents. Some of the common health issues that may affect this hybrid dog are:
- Ear infections: This hybrid is prone to get ear infections since their ears are long and hanging where moisture and dirt can quickly accumulate. Ear infections can cause pain, itching, inflammation, and discharge in the ears. To prevent ear infections, it is important to check and clean the ears regularly and keep them dry.
- Eye problems: The beagle basset hound mix is also susceptible to eye diseases such as cataracts, corneal opacities, glaucoma, distichiasis or progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions can affect the vision and eye health of the dog and may require surgery or medication. To prevent eye problems, it is advisable to monitor the eyes for any signs of irritation, redness, cloudiness, or discharge and consult a veterinarian if needed.
- Epilepsy: This condition causes repeated seizures that can be triggered by various factors such as stress, excitement, or illness. Epilepsy can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, but it can also affect the quality of life of the dog and its owner. To prevent epilepsy, it is recommended to avoid any potential triggers and seek veterinary attention if a seizure occurs.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: These are joint disorders that occur when the ball and socket joint is abnormally formed or does not fit well together. This causes pain, stiffness, lameness, and arthritis in the affected joints. Hip and elbow dysplasia can be inherited or caused by environmental factors such as obesity, injury, or overexertion. To prevent hip and elbow dysplasia, it is important to keep the dog at a healthy weight, provide moderate exercise, and feed a balanced diet.
- Obesity: This is a common problem among beagle basset hound mixes due to their low activity level and high appetite. Obesity can lead to various health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, joint problems, and reduced lifespan. To prevent obesity, it is essential to measure the food intake, limit treats and table scraps, and provide daily exercise for the dog.
Care of the Beagle Basset Hound Mix
The beagle basset hound mix is a low-maintenance dog that does not require much grooming or exercise. However, it still needs some basic care to keep it healthy and happy. Here are some tips on how to care for your beagle basset hound mix:
- Brush the coat once or twice a week to remove loose hair and dirt. This will also help distribute the natural oils and keep the skin healthy. Use a soft-bristled brush or a rubber glove to gently massage the coat.
- Bathe the dog once a month or as needed to keep it clean and fresh. Use a mild dog shampoo and rinse well. Avoid getting water in the ears and eyes. Dry the dog thoroughly with a towel or a blow dryer on low heat.
- Trim the nails every few weeks or as needed to prevent them from growing too long and causing pain or injury. Use a nail clipper or a grinder designed for dogs and be careful not to cut the quick, which is the blood vessel inside the nail. If you are unsure how to trim the nails, you can ask a groomer or a veterinarian for help.
- Clean the ears once a week or as needed to prevent ear infections. Use a cotton ball or a soft cloth moistened with a dog ear cleaner and gently wipe the inside of the ears. Do not insert anything into the ear canal. If you notice any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, odor, or discharge, consult a veterinarian.
- Brush the teeth daily or at least three times a week to prevent dental problems such as plaque, tartar, gingivitis, and bad breath. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs and gently massage the teeth and gums. You can also give your dog dental chews or toys to help clean the teeth.
- Feed your dog a high-quality dog food that meets its nutritional needs. Choose a food that is appropriate for its age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding your dog or giving it too many treats or table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and health issues. Provide fresh water at all times and wash the bowls regularly.
- Exercise your dog daily to keep it fit and mentally stimulated. Although this breed is not very active, it still needs some physical activity to burn off excess energy and prevent boredom. You can take your dog for walks, play fetch, or enroll it in agility or obedience classes. Avoid exercising your dog in hot or humid weather, as it can overheat easily due to its short nose.
- Socialize your dog from an early age to expose it to different people, animals, and situations. This will help your dog become more confident and friendly and prevent behavioral problems such as aggression, fearfulness, or separation anxiety. You can take your dog to puppy classes, dog parks, pet stores, or visit friends and family with pets.
- Train your dog using positive reinforcement methods such as praise, treats, and toys. This breed is intelligent and eager to please, but also independent and stubborn. You need to be patient, consistent, and firm with your dog and avoid harsh punishments or scolding. Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. You can also teach your dog some tricks such as shake, roll over, or speak.
- Provide your dog with a comfortable and safe environment where it can rest and relax. Provide your dog with a cozy bed, a crate, toys, and chew items. Keep your dog away from potential hazards such as wires, cords, sharp objects, or toxic substances. Make sure your dog has access to shade and water when outdoors.
Conclusion
The beagle basset hound mix is a wonderful hybrid dog that combines the best qualities of both parent breeds. The beagle basset hound mix is friendly, loyal, intelligent, playful, and lazy. It makes a great family pet that gets along well with children and other animals. It does not require much grooming or exercise but needs some basic care to stay healthy and happy.
If you are looking for a faithful and fun-loving companion that will bring joy to your life, the beagle basset hound mix may be the perfect choice for you!