Boxer Basset (Boxer & Basset Hound Mix): Info, Pictures, Traits

Breed Overview

The Boxset—a purebred Boxer crossed with a purebred Basset Hound—is quite a sight to see, featuring the short, stocky body and floppy ears of the Basset Hound with the facial shape of the Boxer. An even mix of Boxer energy and Basset Hound calmness, the Boxset has the potential to be an active family dog or a calm companion in a quieter home. This hybrid may raise some eyebrows, but it’s quickly becoming an in-demand designer dog breed.

Aside from some stubbornness, the Boxset has all the great qualities of both purebred parents without the less appealing traits. Read on for more information on this unique mix.

Boxset Puppies

Boxset Characteristics

Basset Hounds flow in popularity, which increases the average price range. Their unique look has generated a demand for this designer dog breed, even though they’re not purebred dogs. When looking for a Boxset, you can always ask your local shelter or dog rescue for Boxer or Basset Hound mixes. It might be easier to find and you will be changing a pup's life as well.

When you bring a Boxset home, expect to have a loyal dog by your side. They create strong bonds with their families, especially with children. They have a stubborn side to their temperament which might be a challenge when training your dog. Once you get to know your dog and have regular training sessions, they should grow up to be obedient and calm.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Boxset

1. Boxsets are heavy dogs.

Don’t let their small, compact bodies fool you- the average Boxset clocks in at around 50 pounds. Though they have the dimensions of a small dog breed, their mass is that of a medium or large breed dog.

2. Boxsets have powerful noses.

Inheriting the strong and tenacious need to follow their noses from the Basset Hound, Boxsets also have powerful noses that they’ll love to put to use. Though they’re usually calm indoors, Boxsets spring into action as soon as they pick up any scent, they deem interesting.

3. Boxsets love to eat.

Since they weigh as much as medium-sized dogs, Boxsets also eat like them. You’ll have to invest in a lot of dog food for this seemingly small dog since both the Basset Hound and the Boxer have voracious appetites.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Boxsets

Boxsets are the result of a purebred Basset Hound crossed with a Boxer and are often said to have all the best traits of both breeds. While there’s no guarantee your Boxset will behave and act a certain way, we can get a vague idea by looking at the temperament and intelligence of the Boxer and the Basset Hound.

Boxers are a wild mix of goofiness and seriousness, often regarded as a friendly watchdog. Their hyperactivity can last beyond their puppy years, but their strong sense of loyalty is worth dealing with their rambunctiousness. They’re excellent family dogs that do well with children and active families. Though not known for being intelligent, Boxers are smarter than they let on and will test their place in the household.

Basset Hounds love nothing more than to snuggle up on the couch with their favorite people, but these scent dogs have a sensitive side that can bring out their stubborn nature. Their docile and lazy demeanor indoors can fool new dog owners into thinking they’re easy to train, but they’re incredibly clever dogs that will stand their ground. As long as they’re given love and affection, Basset Hounds are mild-mannered and do well with people.

Boxsets are usually an even mix of the Boxer and the Basset Hound, so it’s safe to say you’ll have a loyal but stubborn companion. The severity of the stubbornness will vary, especially if your Boxset has more of a Boxer-like personality. They are also quite smart and will remain loyal to your household, as well as taking up the role of watchdog.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

Yes! Boxsets are excellent family dogs, especially with active families with children. These dogs may look small, but their heavyset bodies can handle hours of play with kids. They may get slightly protective of their children playing with other kids they don’t know, so early socialization is a must to prevent your Boxset from becoming too overprotective.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

With other dogs? Yes. Boxsets do better with other dogs in the house, especially if they are raised with a companion dog. Having another Boxset or a dog of similar weight can be a huge confidence booster for your Boxset puppy and will also keep them company when you’re not home

Cats and small animals? If properly introduced, Boxsets can live peacefully with cats. They might still pester and chase them, though it’s extremely rare for them to show any aggression.

Small animals may be too tempting due to the strong scent drive of the Basset Hound, so you may want to think twice before getting this hybrid if you have a lot of small animals in your house.

Things to Know When Owning a Boxset:

Food & Diet Requirements

Boxsets eat like large dogs, so they’ll need a protein-rich dry kibble diet that is designed for medium and large-sized dogs. It’s crucial not to give in to their begging since these dogs love to eat, so weight management can be difficult. We recommend asking your veterinarian for food and diet advice to prevent obesity and other food-related issues.

Exercise

Boxsets may not be as energetic and athletic as purebred Boxers, but they will still need a moderate amount of exercise. Boxsets need a few long walks at a bare minimum, as well as time off-leash in a fenced-in area to romp around. They’ll also need mental exercise to keep their senses sharp, so consider investing in a few puzzle toys to keep your Boxset entertained.

Training

Boxsets have a sensitive side that can bring out their unwillingness to listen, so it’s crucial to be patient and consistent with training. Since they’re quite food-motivated, treat-based training with a confident leader is key to keeping them from testing their boundaries. Since these hound mixes are clever and can detect the slightest weakness, you’ll have to be firm yet gentle with correction. Because of the Boxer’s ability to learn obedience at an early age, your Boxset should be easier to train than a purebred Basset Hound.

Boxsets can do well in obedience if given the chance and ability to succeed. Group puppy classes are a great place to start, but we recommend taking additional training classes to teach your Boxset far more than the basics. With consistent training and a positive attitude, your Boxset could do well in obedience competitions.

Grooming ✂️

Both Boxers and Basset Hounds are mild to moderate shedders, so Boxsets often shed the same amount. Since Boxers tend to shed more during the colder seasons, your Boxset may inherit this as well. Weekly brushing of your Boxset will help reduce shedding, as well as a bath once in a while to keep the coat clean and healthy.

We recommend a rubber curry comb to get rid of loose fur and debris, while also massaging the coat and skin.

Health and Conditions ❤️

Boxers and Basset Hounds both have health conditions that they’re prone to, but that doesn’t mean your Boxset will or will not suffer from them. While we can’t say for sure what to expect, the best way to prepare for future health conditions is to look at the health problems that both Boxers and Basset Hounds commonly face:

Boxers and Basset Hounds have similar and different conditions, so it’s tough to know for sure what your Boxset puppy may be predisposed to. The most common problem you'll most likely encounter is obesity, which can be controlled with diet and exercise. More serious health issues like herniated discs and hip dysplasia are also potential concerns with this hybrid, as well as digestive issues that can lead to bloat and other serious conditions.

Male vs Female

Boxset males and females are similar in personality, so this is a matter of personal choice. Although some swear male Boxer & Basset Hound Mixes are easier to train, others say females are easier to handle. If you are concerned about possible territory marking, a female Boxer & Basset Hound Mix may be a better choice. Otherwise, both male and female Boxsets make excellent companions.

Final Thoughts

Boxsets are happy hybrids that enjoy human companionship, with a proud loyalty that makes them perfect for families. These dogs have the energy to keep up with kids while also having a mild and calm temperament indoors. Stubbornness and some unwillingness to listen can be a potential issue, but some tasty treats and a little patience will go a long way.

If you are looking for a unique designer dog breed, the Boxer-Basset Hound mix will exceed your expectations.

Related Reads:

• Bostillon (Boston Terrier & Papillon Mix)

• Schneagle (Miniature Schnauzer & Beagle Mix)

Featured Image Credit: Anna Hoychuck, Shutterstock