Akita Basset Dog Breed Information & Characteristics

The Akita Basset is a distinctive hybrid breed resulting from the cross between an Akita and a Basset Hound. These dogs typically exhibit a unique combination of the Akita’s sturdy, powerful build with the Basset Hound’s elongated body and droopy ears. They are medium to large-sized dogs known for their friendly and loyal nature, making them great family pets. Akita Bassets can adapt well to various living environments, provided they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their appearance and temperament are sure to capture the hearts of those seeking a charming and unusual canine companion.

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The Akita Basset is a mixed breed, so they don’t have history as their own breed. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. The Akita originated in Japan, originally used as a guarding and hunting dog capable of taking down formidable prey such as wild boar. They were first brought to the US as a gift to Helen Keller, who owned the first two Akitas in America. In modern times, they are prized as a high-drive guard dog and companion. The Basset Hound is well known for their powerful sense of smell. Often characterized alongside detectives like Sherlock Holmes, the Basset Hound is known for their loyalty, intelligence, and drive when working. However, they’re happy to get their energy out then curl up on the couch with their favorite people. 

The Akita Basset is a medium to large sized mixed breed. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors; often, they will have variations of brown, tan, and white. Additionally, they may have either the short hair of the Basset Hound or the puffy coat of the Akita.

Akita Bassets are often good-natured and loving, but also can be high energy and overprotective. It’s crucial to work on socialization from a young age for this breed. Given their Akita heritage, they may be wary of strangers or other dogs. They are also prone to guarding behavior which may manifest in nuisance barking, growling, or lunging without training. However, this breed is also highly intelligent. It’s important to work on positive reinforcement training consistently and firmly. You may need to bring in a professional trainer if you feel that you’re starting to see behavioral issues.

While Akita Bassets originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed.

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Obesity
• Spinal Deformities
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma

The Akita Basset, like most breeds, needs daily exercise to feel content. Ideally, this breed should receive at least a half-hour long walk daily. Additionally, they enjoy indoor or outdoor play like fetch or tug-of-war. The Akita Basset isn’t a good fit for apartment dwellers, as they easily become vocal whether they are discontent or just expressing themselves. As such an intelligent breed, they benefit from daily training sessions, both to keep their skills sharp and keep them mentally challenged.

The Akita Basset should be fed a diet consistent with that of a medium to large-sized breed with medium energy levels. Additionally, drive and interest in scent work may make enriching toys like puzzle feeders and filled bones great for the Akita Basset. They may enjoy seeking games such as hidden treats around the backyard. Because all dogs are unique in their diet requirements, it’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best food to feed your pup.

The Akita Basset’s coat often needs regular maintenance. They typically have a thick coat like the Akita, although some may have the Basset Hound’s more manageable thin coat. Brushing should be performed at least several times a week to reduce shedding and mats and encourage cleanliness. Additionally, the breed may drool, so jowls may need to be gently wiped. Bathing is to be done on an as-needed basis, rarely more than once a month. As with all dog breeds, be sure to check on nail maintenance.

There are some factors to consider before adding the Akita Basset to your family. While this breed can be good with older children, they’re unlikely to be a good match for those with young children or plans to add to the family. They are prone to mouthiness or nipping behavior. However, respectful older children who can be consistent with the dog’s boundaries may get along just fine. This also goes for small animals and dogs.

Typically, the Akita Basset is a one-pet household dog due to their Akita heritage. However, if you adopt a young Akita Basset, be sure to work with a trainer and encourage socialization so that your pup has the best shot at friendliness with others. When properly socialized and trained, it is possible for this breed to peacefully coexist with others.

DogTime shrae there are no breed-specific rescues for the Akita Basset as they are a mixed breed. However, you can often find similar mixes of the Akita or Basset Hound, or begin your search at rescues dedicated to the Akita Basset parent breeds. If you can’t find any of these pups waiting for homes, check out larger rescues for other wonderful mixed breeds. You can check out the resources below to begin your search:

• Basset Hound Rescue of Georgia
• Tri-State Basset Hound Rescue
• Mid-West Akita Society

Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.

On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues.