Miniature Basset Hound: Pictures, Temperament & Traits
Updated on
You’ve probably heard of the Basset Hound Dog, and the Miniature Basset Hound is just a tinier version of the big one. Many breeders will argue that the Miniature Basset Hound is a breed of its own, but it isn’t. It is a breeder’s way of cashing in on the designer dog craze.
In reality, a Miniature Basset Hound usually results from breeding runts or introducing dwarfism to the breed. These adorable dogs stand between 17 and 22 inches in height but still weigh 30 to 45 pounds. They are loyal and affectionate but can be quite stubborn and lazy.
| Height: | 17 to 22 inches |
| Weight: | 30 to 45 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8 to 12 years |
| Colors: | White, black, tan, brown, chocolate, tri-color |
| Suitable for: | Any family or single person looking for a loyal companion, those looking for a low-shedding dog |
| Temperament: | Loyal & loving, affectionate, friendly, caring, stubborn, lazy |
The Miniature Basset Hound is a smaller version of the standard-sized Basset Hound. They are still low-shedding dogs and perfect for families or singles looking for a loyal companion. In the sections below, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Miniature Basset Hound so you can decide if this is indeed the right dog breed for you and your family.
Miniature Basset Hound Breed Characteristics
Miniature Basset Hound Puppies
Basset Hounds are extremely laid-back dogs, to the point of being lazy, and Miniature Basset Hounds are no exception. Demand for these little dogs has grown in the last few years as everyone searches for petite dogs that make great pets.
Not only are small dogs cute, but they also make it easier to live with them in small spaces and apartments. You can expect your Miniature Basset Hound Puppy to run for quite a high price and often more if the breeder can prove the pedigree beyond a doubt.
Expect to have a loyal and loving pup by your side with a stubborn side to their personality. They’re known to be a bit lazy so it’ll be your responsibility that they take regular walks even if they don’t want to every time.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Miniature Basset Hound
The Miniature Basset Hound is adaptable, affectionate, and lazy. Their temperament makes them the perfect choice for a beginning pet owner. The dogs are mild-mannered and can get along with almost any person or pet.
However, they are quite an independent breed, which might make training the dog challenging, as they can be stubborn and decide to do what they want.
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪
Like its larger relative, the Miniature Basset Hound can make an excellent pet for a family. They like to play with adults and children but also enjoy their downtime and need plenty of sleep. Miniature Basset Hounds are not as energetic as other small dogs, and when they get tired of playing, it’s best to let them go and take a nap.
The dog will settle in quickly, sometimes gratefully, when you curl up on the couch to watch TV or at bedtime. While it is a miniature dog, it can still weigh between 30 and 45 pounds, which could injure a smaller child if you’re not careful. Supervising the dog when it’s around the kids is vital to keep them safe.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?
Basset Hounds were bred as hunting dogs, which means they do well in a pack. The dog can get along well with other dogs because of this. However, even the Miniature Basset Hound has a high prey drive and can chase after rabbits and smaller animals. Make sure to socialize and train your Miniature Basset Hound early on so that it gets along well with the smaller animals in your house for the best results.
Things to Know When Owning a Miniature Basset Hound:
Now that you know a bit about the Miniature Basset Hound, you might be ready to adopt one for your very own. Once you do, you’ll need to know a few things about owning the charming pup.
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
Miniature Basset Hounds like to eat, and because they are short yet stocky, you need to watch what you feed them, as they can become overweight or even obese easily. Ensure you feed your Miniature Basset Hound high-quality dog food with plenty of protein.
It’s best not to free-feed this dog because of the tendency to become obese and lazy nature. Feed your pet twice a day at regular times, and keep the treats to a minimum.
Exercise 🐕
Miniature Basset Hounds, as are the larger Basset Hounds, are usually quite laid-back and lazy. This means you might have a problem getting this stubborn creature to even go for a walk willingly. A daily walk at a moderate pace is usually enough to keep your pup healthy and happy, along with an excellent high-quality diet. Due to their hunting lineage, they love playing fetch but may not enjoy playing as long as other breeds.
Training 🎾
Miniature Basset Hounds are challenging to train, as they are independent, stubborn, and laid-back. It would be best to start training your furry friend as a puppy before it becomes more set in its ways. If you feel you can’t handle your Miniature Basset Hound’s training, it’s best to get a professional trainer to help.
Grooming ✂️
While Miniature Basset Hounds are considered low-shedding dogs, they still shed enough to need constant brushing. It’s best to brush your dog once a day to keep your home from being covered with fur. Also, you have to pay special attention to its ears and inspect them every day. Due to the breed’s ear structure, it is vulnerable to infections. Maintaining regular appointments with your veterinarian will also reduce the chances of your pet contracting a bacterial or yeast infection.
Health and Conditions 🏥
Although they’re relatively healthy animals, Miniature Basset Hounds are vulnerable to a few health conditions you must be aware of.
- Eyelid and eyelash problems
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Glaucoma
If you see any signs of the above conditions in your Miniature Basset Hound, it’s best to contact your vet immediately for diagnosis and possible treatment for your canine pal.
Male vs. Female
The males in the Miniature Basset Hound breed get a bit taller and heavier than the females. The males are a bit more playful, and the females are more independent and prefer to be left alone most of the day. Females are usually a bit harder to train than the males of the breed. However, the differences are minimal, and either sex will make an excellent pet.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Miniature Basset Hound
1. Basset Hounds Aren’t Great Swimmers
While your Miniature Basset Hound is great at tracking prey on the ground, they aren’t skilled at swimming. Since their bodies are usually heavier, it’s hard for them to keep afloat in the water with their short little legs.
2. Miniature Basset Hounds Are Not a Breed of Their Own
Miniature Basset Hounds are not a designer breed of dog. They are just a smaller version of the standard-sized Basset Hound.
3. Marilyn Monroe Loved the Basset Hound Dog Breed
Many pet owners don’t know that the Basset Hound was Marilyn Monroe’s favorite dog breed. She owned two and appeared with them in several photos over the years.
Final Thoughts
The Miniature Basset Hound is a smaller version of the standard Basset Hound and is still just as adorable, loving, loyal, and independent. The breed was bred as a hunting dog but also made great pets. They are patient and affectionate with children and other pets, but you need to be careful with them around smaller pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and cats, as they still have a strong hunting instinct and might give chase.
If you’re looking to adopt a Miniature Basset Hound and give it a forever home, check the local shelters before contacting a breeder. Although they’re in high demand, you may get lucky and find a Miniature Basset Hound at a shelter or rescue center that needs a home.
See Also:
Featured Image Credit: Anna Tronova, Shutterstock
