Doxie Basset Hound Mix
Everything you need to know about the Doxie Basset Hound mix — size, temperament, health risks, grooming, costs, and whether this low-slung designer
What Is a Doxie Basset Hound Mix?
The Doxie Basset Hound mix — sometimes called a Basschshund or Dachshund Basset Hound cross — is a designer dog that pairs two of the most recognizable short-legged scent hounds in the world. Both parent breeds were developed for hunting burrowing or ground-dwelling game, which means this cross tends to produce a low-slung, determined, nose-driven companion with a big personality packed into a compact frame.
Because this is a mixed breed and not recognized by the American Kennel Club as a standalone breed, individual puppies can vary significantly in appearance, size, and temperament — even within the same litter. If you're researching the doxie basset hound mix as a potential addition to your family, understanding that variability is the single most important thing you can do before committing.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Dachshund Meets Basset Hound
To predict what a doxie basset hound mix puppy might grow into, you need to understand the two breeds behind it. Each parent brings distinct traits, instincts, and health considerations to the table.
| Trait | Dachshund (Standard) | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany, 15th–17th century — badger hunting | France/Belgium, 16th century — small game tracking |
| AKC Weight Range | 16–32 lb (7–15 kg) | 40–65 lb (18–29 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 8–9 in (20–23 cm) | 11–15 in (28–38 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 12–13 years |
| Coat Types | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired | Short, smooth, dense |
| Energy Level | Moderate — bursts of activity | Low to moderate — slow and steady |
| Prey Drive | Very high — will chase small animals | High — follows scent trails obsessively |
| Vocalization | Frequent barker, loud for its size | Deep baying howl, moderate frequency |
| Trainability | Intelligent but independent and stubborn | Food-motivated but easily distracted by scents |
Both breeds share a common thread: they were developed to work independently underground or on long scent trails, which bred a strong-willed, self-directed temperament. This means your doxie basset hound mix will almost certainly be intelligent but not necessarily obedient in the traditional sense. Positive reinforcement training with high-value food rewards works far better than repetitive commands or punishment-based methods.
Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, and Beyond
- F1 (First Generation): A direct cross between a purebred Dachshund and a purebred Basset Hound. Maximum genetic diversity, but the widest variation in appearance and traits among littermates.
- F1B (Backcross): An F1 Doxie-Basset crossed back to one of the parent breeds (usually the Basset Hound for size consistency or the Dachshund for a smaller dog). Slightly more predictable traits.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Doxie-Basset mixes bred together. Trait predictability drops significantly — you can get puppies that strongly favor either grandparent breed.
- Multigen (F3+): Rare for this particular cross. Most doxie basset hound mixes available are F1, since this isn't a high-volume designer breed like the Labradoodle.
Unlike Poodle-based designer breeds where generation matters for coat predictability, the doxie basset hound mix is almost always an F1 cross. Breeders rarely establish multigen lines because the market demand is lower. When you encounter a listing for this mix, ask the breeder directly which generation the litter is and request documentation of both parent dogs.
How Big Will a Doxie Basset Hound Mix Get?
Size is one of the most variable traits in this cross because the parent breeds have a meaningful weight gap. A standard Dachshund tops out around 32 lb (15 kg), while a Basset Hound can reach 65 lb (29 kg). Your puppy's adult size depends on which parent it takes after more, and there's no reliable way to predict this at 8 weeks.
| Measurement | Low End (Dachshund-leaning) | High End (Basset-leaning) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Weight | 20–30 lb (9–14 kg) | 40–55 lb (18–25 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 9–11 in (23–28 cm) | 12–14 in (30–36 cm) |
| Body Length (nose to tail base) | 18–22 in (46–56 cm) | 24–30 in (61–76 cm) |
| Age at Full Size | 10–12 months | 12–18 months |
Practical tip: Look at the actual weight and frame of both parent dogs if possible. A 25 lb Dachshund mother and a 50 lb Basset Hound father will typically produce puppies that land in the 30–45 lb range as adults. If the breeder uses a miniature Dachshund (under 11 lb / 5 kg), expect smaller puppies, but be aware that extreme size disparity between parents can raise whelping complications.
Coat Types, Shedding, and Grooming Needs
Is the doxie basset hound mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding? No. Neither parent breed carries the low-shedding coat gene found in Poodles or some terriers. You should expect moderate to heavy shedding year-round, with seasonal increases in spring and fall.
The coat your puppy inherits depends on which Dachshund variety was used as the parent:
- Smooth coat (most common): Short, dense, glossy hair similar to the Basset Hound's coat. Easiest to maintain but sheds noticeably on dark clothing and furniture. Brush 2–3 times per week with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush.
- Longhaired: Silky, slightly wavy fur with feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail. Requires brushing every other day to prevent matting behind the ears and in the armpits. Professional grooming every 8–10 weeks may be needed.
- Wirehaired: Coarse, rough outer coat with a softer undercoat. Least common outcome for this mix. Requires hand-stripping or clipping 2–3 times per year. Shedding is somewhat lower than the smooth variety.
Regardless of coat type, both parent breeds have pendulous or semi-pendulous ears that trap moisture and debris. Weekly ear cleaning with a veterinary-recommended ear wash (such as Epi-Otic Advanced or TrizUltra) is non-negotiable to prevent chronic otitis externa — one of the most common issues in floppy-eared breeds according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.
- Brush coat 2–3× per week (daily for longhaired individuals)
- Clean ears with vet-approved solution 1× per week
- Wipe facial folds and lip folds with a damp cloth 2–3× per week
- Trim nails every 2–3 weeks (long nails worsen posture problems in long-backed dogs)
- Brush teeth 3–5× per week with enzymatic dog toothpaste
- Check and clean paw pads after outdoor walks — low-slung dogs pick up debris
Temperament: What to Expect (and What Might Surprise You)
Both Dachshunds and Basset Hounds are scent hounds bred for independent work, which shapes the temperament range you'll see in this cross. Here's an honest look at best-case and challenging scenarios:
| Trait | Best-Case Scenario | Challenging Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Affection Level | Loyal couch companion, bonds closely with family, enjoys physical contact | Clingy to the point of separation anxiety, destructive when left alone |
| Interaction with Children | Patient and gentle with respectful children over age 6–7 | Snappy if handled roughly — long backs make them vulnerable to injury from picking up |
| Other Dogs | Social and playful with proper early socialization | Same-sex aggression or resource guarding (both breeds can exhibit this) |
| Trainability | Responds well to food-motivated positive reinforcement, learns tricks eagerly | Ignores commands when a scent is present, selectively deaf to recalls |
| Vocalization | Alerts to visitors, settles quickly | Persistent barking or howling, especially if bored or left alone — problematic in apartments |
| Off-Leash Reliability | Very rare — do not count on this | Will follow a scent trail for miles, deaf to recalls. Always use a long-line in unfenced areas. |
The single most important thing to understand about this mix: the nose runs the dog. Both parent breeds were selected for their ability to track scents independently, which means your doxie basset hound mix will likely become completely absorbed in sniffing and may ignore verbal cues when an interesting smell is present. This isn't disobedience — it's hardwired breed instinct. Plan your training around it rather than fighting it.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality
Let's address a common myth: hybrid vigor does not eliminate health risks. While crossbreeding can reduce the likelihood of conditions caused by recessive genes concentrated in a single breed's gene pool, both Dachshunds and Basset Hounds share several overlapping health vulnerabilities. A doxie basset hound mix can inherit problems from either or both parent lines.
Shared Health Risks (Both Parent Breeds)
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This is the most serious concern. Both breeds are chondrodystrophic — meaning they have a genetic mutation that causes premature disc degeneration in the spine. The Merck Veterinary Manual reports that chondrodystrophic breeds have a 10× higher risk of IVDD compared to non-chondrodystrophic breeds. A doxie basset hound mix inherits the chondrodystrophy gene from both parents, meaning disc calcification and potential herniation are realistic lifetime risks.
- Obesity: Both breeds gain weight easily, and excess weight dramatically increases spinal stress. Maintaining a lean body condition score (BCS of 4–5 on the 9-point scale) is critical.
- Ear Infections (Otitis Externa): Floppy, pendant ears create a warm, moist environment ideal for bacterial and yeast overgrowth.
Dachshund-Specific Risks That May Be Inherited
- Patellar Luxation: Kneecap slipping out of position, common in small breeds. Grades I–II may be managed conservatively; Grades III–IV often require surgical correction ($1,500–$3,000 per knee).
- Dental Disease: Dachshunds are notorious for early and aggressive periodontal disease. Without regular dental care, tooth loss can begin by age 4–5.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye condition leading to blindness. Both parents should be screened via CERF/OFA ophthalmologist exam.
Basset Hound-Specific Risks That May Be Inherited
- Elbow Dysplasia: Abnormal development of the elbow joint, causing lameness and arthritis. OFA elbow screening of the Basset parent is recommended.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV / Bloat): While more common in large deep-chested breeds, Basset Hounds are at moderate risk due to their barrel-shaped torso. Know the emergency signs: unproductive retching, distended abdomen, restlessness, pale gums. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary surgery.
- Glaucoma: Primary angle-closure glaucoma has a known hereditary component in Basset Hounds. Causes pain and vision loss if untreated.
- Hip Dysplasia: OFA hip screening of both parents reduces (but does not eliminate) risk.
Because IVDD risk is elevated in this cross, implement these precautions from puppyhood:
- Use ramps or pet stairs for all furniture access — no jumping on/off couches or beds
- Carry your dog with support under both the chest and hindquarters, never by the midsection
- Use a harness (not a neck collar) for all leash walking to avoid spinal traction
- Keep your dog at a lean, healthy weight — even 2–3 extra pounds significantly increases disc stress
- Avoid activities that involve high-impact landing or twisting (agility jumps, Frisbee)
- Discuss IVDD early-warning signs with your veterinarian at every wellness exam
For any health concerns, always consult your veterinarian — they can assess your individual dog's risk factors and recommend appropriate screening tests based on the known parentage.
Exercise Requirements and Daily Care
Don't let the short legs fool you into thinking this is a low-activity dog. Both parent breeds were working dogs capable of covering significant ground, and your doxie basset hound mix will need structured daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy.
- Daily walks: 30–45 minutes total, split into two sessions. Keep pace moderate — these dogs aren't built for jogging or sustained running.
- Scent work / sniffaris: Dedicate at least one walk per week to letting your dog lead and sniff freely. This provides mental stimulation that burns as much energy as physical exercise. Consider structured AKC Scent Work as a sport — both parent breeds excel at it.
- Indoor enrichment: Snuffle mats, frozen Kongs, and puzzle feeders are essential for days when outdoor exercise is limited. A bored doxie-basset mix will find its own entertainment, usually by chewing furniture or digging at carpets.
- Swimming: Some individuals enjoy shallow water, but the long body and short legs make swimming difficult. Never leave this mix unsupervised near pools or deep water — they cannot easily exit a pool and will tire quickly.
Heat caution: Basset Hounds are sensitive to heat due to their heavy bone structure and limited ability to dissipate heat. In temperatures above 85°F (29°C), limit outdoor activity to early morning and evening, and always provide shade and water.
Cost Breakdown: Purchase Price and Lifetime Ownership
The doxie basset hound mix is a relatively uncommon designer cross, which means availability is limited and pricing varies widely depending on your region and the breeder's practices.
| Expense Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase (from breeder) | $500–$800 | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Rescue/Adoption Fee | $150–$350 | $400–$500 |
| First-Year Veterinary Costs | $600–$900 | $1,200–$1,800 |
| Annual Ongoing Vet Care | $400–$700 | $900–$1,500 |
| Monthly Food (quality kibble or balanced diet) | $35–$50/mo | $60–$90/mo |
| Pet Insurance (monthly premium) | $30–$45/mo | $55–$80/mo |
| IVDD Surgery (if needed, uninsured) | $3,000–$5,000 | $6,000–$10,000+ |
Breeder vs. Rescue: Because this is an uncommon cross, dedicated breeders are rare. You're more likely to find doxie basset hound mixes through Dachshund-specific or Basset Hound-specific rescues (check ASPCA's shelter database or Petfinder) than through breeders. If you do find a breeder, insist on seeing OFA or PennHIP health clearances for both parents — specifically hips, elbows, eyes, and (for the Dachshund parent) patellas. Avoid any breeder who cannot provide these or who breeds without health testing.
Insurance recommendation: Given the elevated IVDD risk, pet insurance is strongly advisable for this cross. Look for policies that cover hereditary spinal conditions without breed-specific exclusions. Enroll before any symptoms appear — most insurers will not cover IVDD if back problems are documented pre-enrollment.
Who Is This Mix Best Suited For?
The doxie basset hound mix isn't a universal fit. Here's a decision framework to help you evaluate whether this cross aligns with your lifestyle:
- Living situation: House with a securely fenced yard (minimum 4-foot fence — Basset Hounds are not known for jumping, but both breeds will dig under fences). Apartments are possible if you commit to multiple daily walks and manage barking.
- Family composition: Adults or families with children over age 7 who understand how to handle a long-backed dog gently. Not recommended for homes with toddlers who may pick up or drop the dog.
- Other pets: Can coexist with other dogs if socialized early. Caution with cats, rabbits, or small animals — the prey drive from both parent breeds is significant.
- Owner experience: Intermediate level recommended. First-time owners can succeed if they commit to a structured positive-reinforcement training class within the first 8 weeks of bringing the puppy home.
- Time commitment: This mix does not do well left alone for 8+ hours daily. Plan for a dog walker, daycare, or a work-from-home arrangement.
- Activity style: Enjoys leisurely hikes, sniffing walks, and scent games. Not suited for running partners, agility competitors, or owners who want a dog that stays close off-leash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Doxie Basset Hound mixes good apartment dogs?
They can be, with caveats. Their moderate energy level and small-to-medium size are apartment-friendly, but their vocalization tendencies (barking and howling) can be problematic in shared-wall buildings. Daily exercise and mental enrichment reduce nuisance barking significantly. Ground-floor units with direct yard access are ideal to minimize stair use, which protects their spine.
Do Doxie Basset Hound mixes get along with cats?
Some do, especially if raised together from puppyhood. However, both parent breeds have strong prey drives — Dachshunds were bred to hunt small mammals, and Bassets tracked rabbits and hares. Introduce cats carefully and never leave them unsupervised together until you're confident in the dog's behavior. Adult rescues with a known history of cat tolerance are a safer choice for multi-pet homes.
How long do Doxie Basset Hound mixes live?
Based on parent breed lifespans, expect 12–15 years with proper care. Dachshunds are notably long-lived for their size (12–16 years), while Basset Hounds average 12–13 years. Maintaining a healthy weight, protecting the spine, and keeping up with dental care are the three biggest factors within your control that influence longevity.
Is this mix easy to potty train?
Honestly, no. Both Dachshunds and Basset Hounds are notoriously slow to house-train — Dachshunds because of their stubbornness and small bladders, Bassets because they're easily distracted. Expect 4–8 months of consistent crate training and scheduled outdoor trips before reliable house-training. Some individuals never achieve 100% reliability in bad weather. A doggy door to a secure yard helps enormously.
What should I feed a Doxie Basset Hound mix?
Choose an AAFCO-approved complete and balanced diet appropriate for your dog's life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). For a 30–50 lb adult, look for a formula with a named animal protein as the first ingredient and a guaranteed analysis showing 22–26% protein and 12–16% fat for maintenance. Because obesity is a major risk factor for IVDD, measure food precisely using a kitchen scale rather than eyeballing cup measurements, and limit treats to no more than 10% of daily caloric intake.
Can I find a Doxie Basset Hound mix at a rescue?
Yes, though it requires patience. Check breed-specific rescues — the AKC Rescue Network lists Dachshund and Basset Hound rescues by state, and mixed-breed dogs from these breeds frequently end up in their programs. Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet allow you to search by breed mix. Be prepared to wait several months and potentially expand your search radius, as this specific cross is uncommon in shelters.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
