Tzu Basset Basics

The happy, easy-going Tzu Basset brings together the friendly, affable Basset Hound and the loving yet headstrong Shih Tzu for an affectionate, loyal family dog that bonds quickly to his owners and gets along well with kids and other animals. Because of his need for human interaction, he can become bored and destructive if left on his own for long periods of time.

The easy-going Tzu Bassets brings together the friendly Basset Hound and the headstrong Shih Tzu for a great family pet.

Origin

The Tzu Basset hales from the ancient Shih Tzu breed that dates back to around the year 800 and the Basset Hound whose lineage can be traced to France in the 1500s. While his lineage is impressive, the Tzu Basset himself goes back just 30 or 40 years to when breeders first started to cross different breeds in a bid to cancel out the health issues that plagued the pure-bred parents. These designer dogs were also often bred to be a smaller, gentler or even hypo-allergenic variation on a popular breed.

Pedigree

Because he is a mixed breed, the Tzu Basset is not eligible to join the American Kennel Club (AKC) however both of his parent breeds are members. The Basset Hound joined the “hound” group in 1935 and the Shih Tzu was named to the “toy” group in 1969.

Food/Diet

The Tzu Basset is not an overly active dog and because he loves to eat, he can easily become obese. To avoid this, ensure that he receives a top-quality kibble specifically designed to meet his age, size and activity level. Avoid fillers such as carbohydrates that may result in him over-eating to feel full and plan to feed him 2 to 3 smaller meals each day versus free-feeding. This dog may suffer from digestive issues including bloat, so plan exercise for no sooner than 1 hour after feeding.

The Tzu Basset is an intelligent, people-pleasing dog.

Training

The Tzu Basset is an intelligent, people-pleasing dog and while he is quick to pick up commands, he can inherit a stubborn streak from the Shih Tzu which means patience will be needed and his training (particularly house-breaking) should begin while he is young. Take a firm, consistent approach and include rewards such as verbal praise, pats and treats for a job well done.

Weight

The solid little Tzu Basset will weigh in at around 25 to 35 pounds when fully grown.

Temperament/Behavior

The Tzu Basset is a generally happy, easy-going dog who is highly affectionate, bonds quickly with his pet parent and thrives on human interaction. As a result, he can become destructive and “barky” if left on his own for longer periods of time and is ideally suited to a family or senior where someone is always at home. Because of the Shih Tzu in this dog, he may inherit a bit of a stubborn streak, but this just adds to his fun, loving personality.

Common Health Problems

While designer dog breeds are typically healthier than their pure-bred parents, its always important to know what your new pup could inherit down the line. With the Tzu Basset, that can include digestive issues such as gastric torsion (bloat), hypothyroidism and eye disease including glaucoma.

Life Expectancy

The Tzu Basset has a lifespan of approximately 12 to 15 years.

Exercise Requirements

He’s not an overly active pooch but it’s important he receive daily short walks and active playtime in a fenced yard or dog park to help keep him mentally stimulated and physically fit. Because of the hound in him, he can tend to pick up a scent and wander off so ensure any off-leash areas are fenced or secured. He loves his food and does have a tendency to become obese, so although he may prefer the sofa to a leash, don’t skip his exercise.

The Tzu Basset is a happy, affectionate dog that bonds quickly and thrives on human companionship.

Recognized Clubs

While the Tzu Basset is not a member of the American Kennel Club, he is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA). And the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).

Coat

Tzu Basset pups may inherit the shorter, flat hair of the Basset Hound or the longer, silky coat of the Shih Tzu. Although the Shih Tzu is a low-shedding dog who is considered hypoallergenic, the Tzu Basset will likely be a moderate shedder who may (or may not) be hypoallergenic. Because he could inherit the Basset Hound’s propensity to drool (and be smelly), plan to not only brush your dog daily, but bathe him regularly to keep him smelling fresh! As he will have droopy ears, always inspect and clean to avoid infection.

Puppies

This loving little pup will bond quickly and require socialization to help prevent separation anxiety when his pet parent leaves him alone. Because the Shih Tzu is renowned for being a challenge to house-break, plan to begin his obedience training early on and practice patience as this stubborn little guy has a mind of his own.

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