All about Bascottie dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Bascottie" Breed (parent breeds: "Basset Hound" × "Scottish Terrier")

The average Bascottie weight is typically between 30-40 pounds. Expect a healthy adult Bascottie size to range from 25 to 45 pounds. While there isn't a strict rule, male Bascotties can sometimes be at the higher end of this weight range for Bascottie, and females slightly smaller, but individual variation based on parent genetics is common. This makes them a medium-sized companion, with a healthy weight for Bascottie being well-proportioned to their build.

Wondering how tall is a Bascottie? The Bascottie height is a frequently asked question for this charming Basset Hound and Scottish Terrier mix. As a hybrid breed, their size can vary more than purebreds, but we can provide a good estimate based on their parent breeds.

• Parent Breed Influence: Basset Hounds are known for their short, stocky legs and longer bodies, usually standing between 13-15 inches. Scottish Terriers are smaller, typically 10-11 inches tall. Your Bascottie will likely inherit a blend of these characteristics.
• Gender Variation: Like many breeds, male Bascotties tend to be slightly taller and heavier than females, though this difference might be subtle within their overall range.
• Individual Genetics: Even within the same litter, there can be some variation. The specific genetic contribution from each parent, and even the size of the individual parent dogs, will play a role in how tall a particular Bascottie grows.

Bascottie Colors: A delightful mix of its parent breeds, the Bascottie comes in a variety of coat colors. The most common and AKC recognized Bascottie colors (drawing from Basset Hound and Scottish Terrier standards) include black, brindle, wheaten, and various shades of tan (often seen in black and tan patterns). You'll also find Bascotties in lemon and white, red and white, and tri-color combinations (black, tan, and white or lemon/red and white).

Bascottie Personality & TemperamentThe Bascottie is a charming and distinctive designer breed, blending the laid-back nature of the Basset Hound with the spirited personality of the Scottish Terrier. Expect a dog with a unique character that is generally friendly and quite loyal to their family. They often possess a playful curiosity and a surprising amount of energy for their size, enjoying both a good romp and a cozy nap.Their sociability can vary; while often friendly with known individuals, they may exhibit a reserved or watchful demeanor with strangers, inheriting some of the Scottie's independent spirit. Early socialization is key to fostering a well-adjusted and outgoing Bascottie.When it comes to adaptability to apartment living, Bascotties can do well, provided they receive adequate daily exercise. Their smaller to medium size is suitable for smaller spaces, but they do require regular walks and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. A secure yard is a bonus, allowing them to indulge their scent-driven instincts (a Basset trait) and playful digging (a Scottie trait).With children, Bascotties are typically good-natured, especially if raised with them. However, as with any breed, supervision is recommended, and children should be taught how to interact respectfully with dogs. Their sturdy build can handle some boisterous play, but their patience levels can vary.Regarding other pets, Bascotties can generally coexist peacefully, particularly if introduced at a young age. Their terrier heritage can sometimes lead to a prey drive, so introductions to smaller, non-canine pets should be done cautiously. With other dogs, they are usually agreeable, though some may exhibit a stubborn streak in social settings. Owners should be prepared for a dog with a unique blend of endearing traits, requiring consistent training and a loving, patient home.

Bascottie Temperament: Your Loyal and Lively CompanionThe Bascottie temperament is a delightful blend of the Basset Hound's easygoing nature and the Scottish Terrier's spirited independence. Expect a loyal companion dog that is generally friendly and forms strong bonds with its family.Personality traits include a moderate level of sociability; they often enjoy meeting new people but may exhibit a touch of initial reserve characteristic of the Scottie. Once acquainted, their affectionate side shines. Bascotties are typically good with children who understand how to interact gently with dogs, and their patient nature, inherited from the Basset, helps. When it comes to behavior with other pets, early socialization is key. They can coexist peacefully with other dogs, though their Terrier prey drive might surface with smaller, fast-moving animals if not properly introduced.This breed shows good adaptability to apartment living, especially if provided with regular walks and mental stimulation. They are not overly energetic but do enjoy their outdoor adventures. You'll find a moderate tendency toward stubbornness, a common trait in both parent breeds, meaning consistent and positive reinforcement training is essential. They are intelligent and responsive but may occasionally test boundaries. Bascotties are generally not overly sensitive, possessing a robust and resilient spirit. They thrive on attention and being part of the family’s daily activities. Expect a charming and engaging canine that brings joy and character to any home.

Bascottie Care: Your Daily Maintenance Guide

Bascottie Activity Level: How Active Are Bascottie?The Bascottie, a charming blend of the Basset Hound and Scottish Terrier, generally exhibits a moderate activity level, balancing short bursts of playful energy with a strong preference for extended periods of rest. They are not high-energy dogs, making them an excellent fit for low-energy households and those who enjoy a more relaxed pace.Typical Energy Levels & Exercise Needs:Expect your Bascottie to have a playful side, enjoying short, engaging play sessions throughout the day. Their Basset Hound lineage contributes to a love of sniffing and exploring, making daily moderate walks (around 20-30 minutes, once or twice a day) essential for their physical and mental well-being. These walks should be leisurely, allowing them ample time to investigate scents. While they enjoy being outdoors, Bascottie are not suited for long-distance running or intense agility training.Playtime Preferences:Bascottie thrive on interactive playtime that engages their minds. Think puzzle toys, scent games, and short sessions of fetch. They particularly enjoy games that mimic hunting or tracking, appealing to their Scottish Terrier instincts. After a good play or walk, they are more than content to lounge on the couch or nap in a sunny spot.Brachycephalic Limitations:It's crucial to be aware of their brachycephalic anatomy, inherited from both parent breeds to varying degrees. This short-nosed structure means they are prone to overheating and respiratory issues, especially during strenuous exercise or in warm weather. Always provide ample fresh water and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Monitor their breathing closely and never push them past their comfort level.Suitability for Families:While they enjoy playtime, Bascottie are not typically suitable for highly active families seeking a running or hiking companion. They are much better suited for households that appreciate a laid-back companion, value gentle walks, and are prepared to offer plenty of comfy napping spots. Their moderate Bascottie exercise needs make them a manageable and delightful companion for many.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the "Bascottie" breed as a 4.The Bascottie, being a cross between a Basset Hound and a Scottish Terrier, generally falls into the small to medium range. A Basset Hound is a longer, heavier dog with short legs, while a Scottish Terrier is a more compact, sturdy small dog. This hybrid is likely to inherit a build that is longer than a Scottie but much lighter and less substantial than a Basset Hound. They'll typically stand between 10 to 15 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 20 to 40 pounds, placing them firmly in the smaller half of the canine spectrum. While they'll have some of the Basset's substantial bone, it will be scaled down by the Scottie influence. This makes them well-suited for apartment living, especially if they receive regular walks, as their moderate size doesn't demand vast amounts of indoor space. Their manageable size also makes them a good candidate for travel, as they can more easily fit in car crates or pet carriers. For households with space constraints, the Bascottie would be a good fit, offering a sturdy yet compact companion.

I would rate the Bascottie's grooming requirements a 7.This is because the Bascottie is likely to inherit a challenging combination of grooming needs from its parent breeds. The Basset Hound contributes the potential for droopy ears requiring regular cleaning to prevent infections, and loose skin folds around the face and neck that can trap dirt and moisture, leading to skin irritations if not cleaned diligently. While Basset Hounds have a short, dense coat, they are moderate to heavy infrequent shedder. The Scottish Terrier, on the other hand, brings a wiry, dense double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and is often hand-stripped or clipped to maintain its texture and appearance. This type of coat can also shed, though usually less dramatically than a smooth coat.Therefore, a Bascottie will likely be a moderate to high shedder, requiring frequent brushing (several times a week) to manage loose hair and prevent tangles, especially if the coat leans towards the wiry side. Due to the potential for skin folds and droopy ears, daily or every-other-day checks and cleaning will be necessary. Nail trimming will be important for both breeds and should be done regularly, at least every 2-4 weeks. While bathing won't be a daily affair, the combination of potential skin issues from folds and the need to keep the coat clean will mean regular baths (every 4-6 weeks) are likely, along with attention to drying thoroughly, especially in skin folds. Their susceptibility to allergies can also mean specialized shampoos or more frequent baths if they experience skin flare-ups. Overall, a Bascottie isn't an extremely low-maintenance dog; they will likely require consistent and specific grooming to keep them healthy and comfortable, making them lean towards the higher end of grooming effort compared to many other companion dogs.

I would rate the Bascottie's exercise requirements as a 6 out of 10. While they inherit the relatively lower energy levels and relaxed nature of the Basset Hound, the Scottish Terrier parentage introduces a more active and playful drive. This isn't a couch potato breed, but it's also not a dog that needs to run for miles every day. They thrive on a moderate amount of daily activity, typically benefiting from two good walks totaling 45-60 minutes, along with regular playtime. Their shorter legs and potential for some brachycephalic tendencies (though less pronounced than a pure Basset) mean high-intensity, sustained running isn't ideal, especially in warm weather, but they enjoy sniffing around on walks and engaging in interactive games. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, they can become bored and prone to destructive behaviors or excessive barking, so structured routines are beneficial to keep them healthy and happy.

I would rate the Bascottie's watchdog ability at a 7 out of 10.The Bascottie, a mix of the Basset Hound and Scottish Terrier, likely inherits a blend of watchful and relaxed traits, resulting in a moderately effective watchdog. The Scottish Terrier parent brings a significant boost to alertness and territoriality. Scotties are known for their feisty, independent nature and keen senses, making them quick to notice and bark at anything unusual. This strong "terrier-alertness" would likely be a dominant trait in the Bascottie, meaning they would be quite responsive to unfamiliar sounds or people approaching the home. Their barking behavior would likely be a meaningful early warning system – not excessively yappy, but rather a sharp, insistent bark that signals an intruder's presence.However, the Basset Hound influence would temper the intensity. While Bassets have a powerful bark and keen sense of smell, their laid-back demeanor means they aren't typically as quick to react or as intensely territorial as a terrier. They're more likely to observe and then bark, rather than immediately confront. This blend means the Bascottie would likely provide excellent early warnings through their barking and alert posture. They would definitely deter casual intruders with their vocalizations and show of awareness. While they might not be the most aggressive or physically deterrent breed, their consistent vigilance and willingness to vocalize any perceived threat would make them a highly capable early warning system for a home environment, moving beyond just a passive companion into a genuinely useful watchdog.

Rating: 6/10The "Good with Other Dogs" trait of a Bascottie lands around a 6. This hybrid inherits a blend of tendencies, making their compatibility with other dogs somewhat variable and requiring thoughtful management rather than being an inherent strong suit. The Basset Hound contributes a generally placid and often amiable disposition, which can lean towards indifference or mild curiosity with other canines, though their pack hunting background can also translate to a desire for canine companionship. However, the Scottish Terrier parentage introduces a more independent, sometimes assertive, and often tenacious streak. Scotties can be prone to "small dog syndrome" or a more dominant attitude, especially towards dogs they perceive as rivals or those challenging their space.Therefore, a Bascottie's success in a multi-dog household or during interactions with unfamiliar dogs largely hinges on early and consistent socialization. They generally don't thrive as automatically sociable "playmates" with all dogs, especially if not properly introduced. They might do well with dogs of a similar calm demeanor or those that respect their space, but could become reactive or try to assert themselves with overly boisterous or pushy canines. There's a moderate potential for dominance or resource guarding if not trained and managed from a young age. While not inherently aggressive, their stubbornness can escalate into conflict if not properly addressed. They can certainly coexist peacefully and even enjoy the company of other dogs, especially those they've grown up with or been carefully introduced to, but it will often require careful introductions, supervision, and ongoing training to ensure harmonious relationships, rather than being a naturally extremely sociable and dog-friendly trait.

I would rate the Bascottie's "Energetic" trait as a 4 out of 10.The Basset Hound, a parent breed, is notoriously laid-back, often content with napping and short strolls. The Scottish Terrier, while more spirited and playful than the Basset, is still a moderately energetic dog, not a boundless athlete. The Bascottie generally inherits a moderate to low energy level, leaning more towards the Basset's calm demeanor. They enjoy playtime and short bursts of activity, but they are not typically high-endurance dogs. Their need for physical stimulation is moderate; daily walks and some interactive play will suffice. They are more laid-back than many other companion dogs, thriving on comfort and companionship rather than intense exercise.Furthermore, the Basset Hound's brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy, which can be present to varying degrees in Bascotties, significantly affects stamina and exercise tolerance. This facial structure can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather or during strenuous activity, limiting their ability to participate in prolonged outdoor or athletic activities without risk. Therefore, while they may have moments of playful exuberance, their overall energy level and capacity for sustained activity are limited, leading to a lower rating.

I would rate the Bascottie's "Training Requirements" at a 7.This hybrid inherits a fascinating mix of traits that make training a moderate challenge, leaning towards the more demanding end for first-time dog owners. While the Scottish Terrier brings a good degree of intelligence and a desire to please its chosen human, the Basset Hound's infamous stubbornness and independent streak are undeniably present. Bascotties often have a decent attention span when something truly interests them, but they can quickly become distracted by enticing scents, a classic Basset trait. Their responsiveness to commands can vary wildly; some days they might be eager, while others they'll exhibit a charmingly deaf ear. Consistency is absolutely paramount – a Bascottie will quickly test boundaries if they sense an opening. Positive reinforcement is highly effective, as they are food-motivated and appreciate praise, but it needs to be delivered consistently and with clear expectations. This is not a breed I would recommend as beginner-friendly without dedicated commitment to professional guidance or extensive self-education. They truly thrive with experienced handling and a structured routine that combines firm but gentle leadership with ample positive motivation to navigate their charmingly independent and sometimes stubborn nature.

I'd rate the Bascottie's "Playful" trait a 6 out of 10.While both parent breeds have their playful moments, neither is typically characterized by high-octane energy. The Basset Hound contributes a laid-back, somewhat stubborn, and often quite amusing goofiness, enjoying a good romp but also perfectly content to lounge. The Scottish Terrier, on the other hand, brings a feisty and tenacious spirit, often enjoying games of chase and "hunting" toys with gusto.The Bascottie inherits a delightful blend. They are generally not the type to bounce off the walls, but they certainly aren't couch potatoes either. They tend to be moderately active, enjoying walks and engaging in playful interactions with their families. They often have a strong interest in toys, especially those they can "worry" or chase, echoing their terrier heritage. Their attention-seeking behavior is usually moderate; they'll initiate playtime but aren't typically demanding. Their overall enthusiasm in daily life is generally cheerful and content, rather than exuberantly boisterous. They are more spirited than a pure Basset Hound but often less intensely energetic than some other terrier breeds, making them a well-rounded companion that enjoys fun but also appreciates a good snooze.

I'd rate the "Affectionate" trait of the "Bascottie" at an 8 out of 10.The Bascottie inherits a delightful blend of affection from both parent breeds. The Basset Hound's famously laid-back and companionable nature, coupled with the Scottish Terrier's loyalty and surprising capacity for devotion once bonded, creates a dog that thrives on human connection. Bascotties typically exhibit a strong desire for human companionship, often following their family members from room to room. While they might not be as overtly "velcro" as some super-cuddly breeds, they are certainly appreciative of physical closeness, enjoying lap-sitting and snuggling sessions, especially after a good walk. Their loyalty is a hallmark, and they are generally quite sensitive to the emotions of their owners, offering a comforting presence. They are not overly independent; rather, they find great comfort and happiness in being an integral part of their human pack and genuinely flourish when given consistent love and attention.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Bascottie a 6 out of 10.While the Basset Hound parent brings a generally amiable and laid-back nature, often tolerant of other animals, the Scottish Terrier introduces a significant wild card. Scotties are known for their strong prey drive, bred to hunt vermin, which can translate into a natural inclination to chase or harass smaller, faster-moving pets like cats or small rodents. This terrier assertiveness can also manifest as a tendency towards resource guarding, particularly with food or favorite toys, if not well-managed from a young age. While a Bascottie might inherit the Basset's more relaxed demeanor, that underlying terrier instinct can't be ignored. Therefore, while not inherently aggressive, a Bascottie will likely require early and consistent socialization, along with vigilant supervision, especially in a multi-pet household with cats or very small animals. With proper training and management, they can coexist peacefully, but it won't always be a naturally harmonious blend without effort.

Rating: 7/10The Bascottie, a mix of the Basset Hound and Scottish Terrier, generally rates as a good, though not always exceptionally, child-friendly dog. The Basset Hound parent contributes a significant degree of patience, a laid-back temperament, and a natural gentleness that makes them quite tolerant of the sometimes boisterous nature of children. They are typically affectionate and forgiving, less prone to snappiness, and their low-slung build means they are less likely to accidentally knock over a small child during play.However, the Scottish Terrier influence adds a layer of independent spirit and a slightly more "terrier" personality. While not aggressive, Scotties can be more opinionated and less tolerant of excessive handling or persistent teasing than a Basset. This means a Bascottie might have moments where they prefer to be left alone, particularly if overstimulated. They are moderately playful, enjoying games but perhaps not to the relentless extent of some high-energy breeds. They can tolerate typical household noise well, but may be more vocal (alert barking from the Scottie side) than a pure Basset.Overall, the Bascottie is a naturally gentle and affectionate dog that can thrive in a family setting, but they will benefit from early socialization and consistent training to ensure they are respectful of boundaries. Children also need to be taught how to interact respectfully with the dog, understanding when the Bascottie needs space. Supervision, especially with very young children, is always recommended to ensure positive interactions for both the dog and the kids. Their calm Basset side usually outweighs the more assertive Scottie traits in terms of child compatibility, making them a good fit for families willing to teach appropriate interaction.

The "Good with Strangers" trait for a Bascottie rates a 6 out of 10.This rating reflects the breed's likely blend of its parent breeds' tendencies. Basset Hounds are generally known for their laid-back and friendly nature, often greeting strangers with a curious sniff rather than alarm. Scottish Terriers, on the other hand, are typically more reserved and watchful, possessing a strong "terrier" instinct to guard their family and territory, which can manifest as barking or wariness around unfamiliar individuals. A Bascottie will likely inherit some of the Basset's amiable disposition, making them generally accepting of new people, but also the Scottish Terrier's protective streak, meaning they might not be overtly effusive or immediately trustful. They are more likely to be cautiously friendly, observing new arrivals before offering a tail wag or a nudge. While not naturally standoffish, they will likely require consistent positive socialization from a young age to ensure they are comfortable and adaptable in public or guest-filled environments, preventing the Scottish Terrier's guarding tendencies from becoming dominant. They are unlikely to be aggressive but might be reserved or offer a few "warning barks" until they assess a stranger's intentions.

I would rate the Bascottie's winter tolerance as a 6.While the Scottish Terrier parentage lends some robustness with its wiry, dense double coat, and the Basset Hound contributes a decent amount of body fat, the Bascottie will likely inherit the Basset's low-slung body, bringing them closer to the cold ground. Their smaller stature (compared to some larger, more cold-hardy breeds) also means a higher surface area to volume ratio, potentially leading to faster heat loss. Neither parent breed is particularly known for extreme cold resilience, and the Basset Hound, in particular, can be quite sensitive. They are not brachycephalic, which is a positive for breathing in cold air.This rating suggests they have moderate tolerance; they can enjoy supervised outdoor activities in cold weather for reasonable periods, but they are not built for prolonged exposure or extreme sub-zero temperatures. They will likely require special care during winter months compared to other companion dogs, particularly those with thicker coats or larger builds. Owners should consider a warm dog coat or sweater for walks, especially in very cold or windy conditions, and limit time outdoors. Vigilance for signs of shivering, lethargy, or reluctance to move is crucial, as they could be at risk of hypothermia with extended exposure without proper protection.

I would rate the "Bascottie" breed's "Summer" tolerance at a 4.The Bascottie, inheriting traits from both the Basset Hound and the Scottish Terrier, would likely have a moderate to low tolerance for heat. While neither parent breed is considered extremely brachycephalic, the Basset Hound's longer body, short legs, and dense coat, combined with the Scottish Terrier's wiry but insulating double coat, contribute to a reduced ability to dissipate heat efficiently. Both breeds are prone to overheating if not managed properly in warm weather. Their body structure, particularly the Basset's low-slung body, can make them absorb more heat from the ground. They are not built for strenuous activity in the heat, and their ability to regulate body temperature through panting would be less efficient than breeds with more open airways and lighter coats. The risk of heatstroke would be significant with prolonged exposure or intense exercise in hot conditions. This breed would definitely require special care in summer months compared to many other companion dogs, needing strict limitations on outdoor activity during peak heat, access to shade and water at all times, and likely needing climate control (air conditioning) indoors during hot spells to prevent overheating. They are not a breed that can be left outside unsupervised in warm temperatures.

I would rate the Bascottie's "Healthiness" trait at a 6 out of 10.While generally robust and not considered excessively high-maintenance compared to some toy or giant breeds, the Bascottie inherits a mix of predispositions from its parent breeds. The Basset Hound contributes a propensity for joint problems (especially disc disease due to its long back and short legs), ear infections due to its long, pendulous ears, and potentially some skin fold dermatitis. The Scottish Terrier, on the other hand, can pass on tendencies for Scottie Cramp, a neurological condition, and certain cancers like bladder cancer. While responsible breeding can mitigate some of these risks by screening parent dogs, the inherent anatomical characteristics and genetic lines mean that a Bascottie owner needs to be vigilant about preventive care, particularly regarding weight management to protect joints, regular ear cleaning, and being aware of early signs of neurological or dermatological issues. Their life expectancy is generally in the range of 10-13 years, which is average for their size. Therefore, they are generally healthy but do require attentive care and awareness of potential breed-specific vulnerabilities that push them slightly below the "very healthy" category.

I would rate the Bascottie's "Protective" trait at a 6 out of 10.The Bascottie, a mix of the Basset Hound and Scottish Terrier, inherits a fascinating blend of characteristics. The Scottish Terrier side brings a strong sense of alertness, a natural suspicion of strangers, and a tenacious spirit. They are known for being quite loyal to their families and will certainly vocalize their displeasure at anything they perceive as an intrusion, making them excellent watchdogs. Their compact but sturdy build and confident demeanor can also make them seem more formidable than their size might suggest to an unfamiliar person.However, the Basset Hound influence significantly tempers this protective instinct. Basset Hounds are renowned for their laid-back, affable nature and a general friendliness towards most people, even strangers. While they are incredibly loyal to their owners, their primary concern is usually following an interesting scent, and their "bark" is often more of a mournful bay than an aggressive warning. They are not typically territorial in an assertive way, and their instinct is generally not to confront but to observe, or more likely, to politely investigate.Therefore, the Bascottie will likely be a very good watchdog, reliably alerting you to visitors or unusual occurrences with enthusiastic barking, thanks to the Scottie influence. They will undoubtedly be loyal and devoted to their family. However, their ability to offer meaningful physical protection or act as a guard dog is limited. They are more likely to deter with noise and a watchful eye than with any true aggression or physical defense. They are, at heart, more of a companion dog with a surprisingly effective alert system, rather than a breed capable of offering significant physical protection in a household setting.

I'd rate the Bascottie's "Life Span" trait a 7 out of 10.This places the Bascottie in the average to slightly above-average range for companion dogs. Both parent breeds contribute positively to this rating. The Basset Hound generally has a lifespan of 10-12 years, while the Scottish Terrier typically lives for 12-15 years, with some individuals reaching even 16 years. The Bascottie often inherits a good blend, usually living between 11 and 14 years. While they can be prone to some health issues from both sides, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and certain cancers (like bladder cancer in Scotties or lymphoma in Bassets), responsible breeding practices can significantly reduce the risk of inheriting severe forms. Furthermore, the hybrid vigor often associated with mixed breeds can sometimes contribute to a more robust constitution compared to some purebreds. With proper nutrition, regular exercise, routine veterinary care, and a loving home, a Bascottie can enjoy a good, healthy, and reasonably long life.