Beagle-Basset Hound Mix: Complete Dog Breed Guide

Thinking about bringing a Beagle-Basset Hound mix, also known as a Bagle Hound, into your home? This charming hybrid merges the best qualities of its parent breeds from the hound family. Bagle Hounds often have the distinctive look of a Basset Hound but with longer legs and a shorter body,

Although major kennel clubs haven’t officially recognized the Bagle Hound, this delightful mix is a well-loved member of the Beagle hybrid family. There is an active community online, and you certainly won’t be treading unknown waters.

In this comprehensive breed guide, we break down everything you need to know about this charming breed.

Origins of the Beagle-Basset Hound Mix

If you’re considering a Bagle Hound, you’re looking at a hybrid that brings together the best of two historic hound breeds. Although the Bagle Hound emerged in the 2000s, its parents have rich histories as esteemed hunting companions in Europe.

The Basset Hound originated in 16th-century France as a scent hound specialized in trailing rabbits and hares. Its name comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” perfectly describing its short stature. 

The Beagle’s roots go back even further to 14th-century England, where it was also developed as a scent hound known for agility and a keen sense of smell.

By blending the sturdy, low-slung Basset Hound with the taller, more agile Beagle, the Bagle Hound offers a mid-sized scent hound with a balanced mix of traits. 

While documentation on Basset Hounds mixed with Beagles is limited, they’ve gained popularity as companion animals rather than hunting dogs. Today, the Bagle Hound is recognized by several organizations, including the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Breed Registry, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, and the Dog Registry of America.

Beagle-Basset Hound Mix Breed Facts

Size of Basset Hound and Beagle Mix

Wondering how big your Beagle-Basset Hound mix will get? Bagle Hounds typically stand between 12 and 17 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 30 to 55 pounds. Females tend to be on the smaller side, usually measuring 12 to 15 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 50 pounds.

Temperament

Bagle Hounds are excellent family pets, known for their affection toward children and friendliness to strangers. Inheriting the pack-minded nature of their Beagle and Basset Hound parents, they thrive on family interaction. Providing ample social interaction is key to keeping your Bagle Hound happy and preventing feelings of depression.

If left without companionship for long periods, they may become anxious or vocal—baying or barking—to express their loneliness. Moreover, the breed gets along well with other dogs and can even tolerate cats, making them ideal for multi-pet households.

Dietary Requirements

Ensuring your Beagle-Basset Hound mix receives a balanced diet is crucial for their health and energy levels. These medium-sized, active dogs need the right nutrients to thrive. That said, being Beagles, they are extremely food motivated and prone to being overweight if you are not careful with their diet.

• Daily intake – Provide 2½ to 3 cups of high-quality dry dog food each day, divided into two meals.
• Food selection – Consult your veterinarian to choose the appropriate food type based on your dog’s size and activity level.
• Nutritional balance – Make sure their diet includes essential fibers, vitamins, and minerals.

Regular check-ups with your vet will help ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. 

Coat

Bagle Hounds display a wide range of coat colors, including brown, black and brown, black and white, or solid white. This mix results in various color patterns, giving each dog a unique appearance.

In terms of length, their coat can range from short to medium, making grooming relatively easy. The coat density can vary as well, from sparse to dense, depending on the dog’s genetic mix.

As for texture, Bagle Hounds might have straight, wavy, or even wiry fur. Regular brushing is usually enough to keep their coat healthy, regardless of the texture or density.

Shedding

Despite their short coat, Bagle Hounds are moderate shedders. Regular brushing can help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy. Routine grooming is recommended to minimize loose fur around your home.

Training 

Due to their Beagle and Basset Hound lineage, these mixes can be a bit stubborn, making training a bit of a challenge. While they are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they may need the right motivation to stay engaged.

Using food-based rewards can be effective, but it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, as Bagle Hounds can gain weight easily. Consistent training with positive reinforcement, patience, and limited treats will yield the best results.

Barking

Bagle Hounds can be quite vocal, thanks to their Beagle and Basset Hound lineage. They may bark or bay, especially if they’re feeling bored, lonely, or want attention. Being pack-oriented, they are prone to expressing themselves when left alone for extended periods. 

Proper training and regular social interaction can help manage their barking tendencies. However, some barking is natural, especially if they pick up an intriguing scent or hear unfamiliar sounds. 

Grooming

Regular grooming is essential for keeping your Bagle Hound’s coat healthy and distributing the natural oils their skin produces. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient to maintain their coat’s condition and minimize shedding. 

Occasional baths are fine, but frequent bathing is not recommended, as it can strip away these natural oils and potentially cause skin issues like dermatitis. Aim for a gentle grooming routine to keep your Bagle Hound looking and feeling their best.

Lifespan

Bagle Hounds typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.

Basset Hound and Beagle Mix Appearance

Bagle Hounds inherit a blend of traits from their Basset Hound and Beagle parents, which can sometimes make it hard to distinguish them from either breed. While Basset Hounds are low to the ground and Beagles are leaner with longer legs, Bagle Hounds often strike a balance between these features, resulting in a more proportionate build.

They typically have square-shaped heads with large, drooping ears. Their lips are somewhat loose—less tight than a Beagle’s but not as droopy as a Basset Hound’s. 

Bagle Hounds are also known for their expressive, soulful eyes that often appear kind and a bit sad, capturing the classic “puppy dog eyes” look. These eyes are usually a deep brown or hazel.

Other Things You Need to Know About Bagle Hounds

While they may drool occasionally—similar to their Basset Hound parent—this is often a sign of thirst, hunger, or exhaustion.

Due to their long ears, Bagle Hounds are prone to ear infections. Regularly clean their ears to remove dirt, debris, or wax buildup to prevent infections and keep them comfortable. 

How Much Exercise Do Basset Hound-Beagle Mix Dogs Need?

Bagle Hounds have moderate energy levels, combining the playful, energetic spirit of Beagles with the more laid-back nature of Basset Hounds. 

While they may not be as rambunctious as a pure Beagle, they still need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation will help keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

Common Health Concerns with Bagle Hounds

While Bagle Hounds are generally robust, they can inherit some health issues from their parent breeds. Being aware of these potential conditions and staying proactive with your vet can go a long way in maintaining their health.

• Major conditions to watch for – Joint issues like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia, as well as spinal problems such as intervertebral disc disease. Blood disorders like von Willebrand’s disease and certain cancers can also occur.

• Minor concerns – Due to their long, floppy ears, ear infections are common. Eye issues, including entropion, ectropion, and glaucoma, can also affect them. Bloat and weight gain are potential risks, especially if their diet isn’t managed well.

• Recommended check-ups – Routine blood work, imaging tests (like x-rays or MRIs), and thorough ear and eye exams are advised to catch any developing issues early.

What Bagle Hound Owners Have to Say

Bagle Hounds are beloved for being affectionate, adaptable, and deeply loyal. Many families find them great with children, always up for a game of fetch, tug-of-war, or just racing around the yard. While they are playful and energetic, they’re equally content to relax and cuddle at home.

Owners often praise their Bagle Hounds for being social and friendly. These dogs bring joy and comfort, making them excellent companions, especially during stressful times. They’re known for playful antics like zooming through the house and have a strong love for treats and belly rubs.

However, they can be quite clever and mischievous, sometimes getting into food or trouble around the house. Training can require patience, as their stubborn streak means they respond best to food-based rewards—but portion control is crucial to prevent weight gain.

Many owners note their tendency toward separation anxiety; they thrive when surrounded by family and can struggle when left alone. As they age, these dogs often mellow, preferring naps and gentle walks while staying close to their loved ones.