Aussiedoodle vs Basset Hound
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Aussiedoodle
Also known as: Aussiepoo, Aussie Poodle, Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix
The Aussiedoodle, also called Aussiepoo, brings together two of the smartest dog breeds—the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle. This designer breed is known for its exceptional intelligence, boundless energy, and stunning coat that often features the merle patterns of the Aussie parent. Aussiedoodles excel in agility, obedience, and as active family companions who thrive on mental and physical stimulation.
Medium
High
10-14 yrs
35-58 cm
18-32 kg
Basset Hound
Also known as: Basset, Hush Puppy Dog
The Basset Hound is a charming dog breed known for its long ears, droopy eyes, and distinctive short-legged, long-bodied appearance. With a gentle demeanor and a keen sense of smell, they make excellent companions and are often used as scent hounds in hunting. However, their stubborn nature and specific health needs make them best suited for experienced owners.
Large
Medium
10-12 yrs
33-38 cm
23-30 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Energy Level | High | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Easy | challenging |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | Medium | High |
| Chew strength | N/A | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active individual or family who works from home or has flexible schedule. Experienced with high-energy breeds. Ready for significant grooming commitment. Enjoys training and dog sports. | Patient owner with a sense of humor who works from home or can provide companionship. Has a securely fenced yard. Tolerant of mess and 'hound odor.' Prepared for higher-than-average vet bills. |
Aussiedoodle Dealbreakers
- Sedentary lifestyle - if you want a couch dog after a 20-minute walk
- Long work hours - 8+ hours away from home daily
- Budget constraints - $100/month grooming is a hardship
- No yard or outdoor space
Basset Hound Dealbreakers
- Cannot tolerate drool, shedding, and hound smell
- Live in apartments or have close neighbors
- Want a running or hiking partner
- Expect quick obedience or easy training
- Not prepared for chronic ear and eye care
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | High | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | He's too hyper - energy underestimated, He nips the kids - herding instinct, Grooming costs overwhelming, Cute puppy → High energy adolescent → Backyard isolation → Barking → Surrender | Neighbors complaining about howling/baying, Owners giving up on potty training after months of accidents, Unexpected veterinary costs for ears, eyes, and back problems, Expecting a Golden Retriever personality in a stubborn hound |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | High |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Moderate |
Aussiedoodle Social Traits
Low
Generally friendly with dogs
Basset Hound Social Traits
None
Generally dog-friendly; thrives with other dogs to reduce loneliness
Training
Aussiedoodle
- Use food motivation for rapid learning
- Keep sessions short and varied to maintain interest
- Channel herding instinct into controlled activities
- Start bite inhibition training early for nipping
Basset Hound
- Food is king - always have high-value treats ready
- Keep sessions short (5-10 min) to prevent boredom
- Never use harsh methods - they shut down completely
- Accept that perfect obedience is not in their DNA
Aussiedoodle Considerations
Both parent breeds are 'Velcro' dogs selected for close human cooperation. Aussiedoodles often cannot tolerate isolation, leading to destructive chewing, self-mutilation, and incessant vocalization if left alone for standard workdays.
The Australian Shepherd's herding instinct manifests as nipping heels of running children, chasing bicycles, or attempting to control movement of other pets. Requires consistent training from puppyhood.
Without a 'job' (agility, advanced obedience, nosework), their intelligence turns inward, resulting in obsessive-compulsive behaviors like shadow chasing or flank sucking.
Unlike purebred Aussies, the coat grows continuously. Professional grooming is mandatory every 6-8 weeks at $100-150 per session. Matting can cause skin damage.
Basset Hound Considerations
Bassets were bred to track scent trails independently for miles. They have selective hearing and will ignore commands if they don't see value in them. Food motivation is essential for any training success.
As pack animals, Bassets have a profound need for companionship. Left alone, they produce a loud, mournful bay that penetrates walls and travels long distances - a serious liability in apartments or close-neighbor situations.
Notoriously difficult to housebreak - their independent nature and physical structure make this a multi-month (6-12 months) battle. Accidents may persist into adulthood.
When they catch a scent, their ears literally fold forward to block sound, focusing entirely on the smell. Recall is non-existent - they will wander into traffic without a secure fence.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | May harass by trying to herd them - can coexist if raised together | Caution - prey drive can trigger tracking behavior that stresses cats |
| Small Mammals | Moderate risk - may harass guinea pigs/rabbits by poking/herding | Unsafe - rabbits are historical prey; hamsters/guinea pigs trigger tracking instincts |
| Birds / Reptiles | High risk - Poodle bird dog instinct + Aussie chase drive | Unsafe - scent of small animals causes obsessive whining and scratching at cages |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Full (but slow) |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
Aussiedoodle: Eye -> Stalk -> Chase sequence from Aussie, Poodle adds retrieval mouthing. Generally safe with family but chase instinct is strong.
Basset Hound: Predatory sequence is present (orient-eye-stalk-chase-grab) but slow. They are hunting dogs, not companions in mindset. High adaptive intelligence (food problem-solving) but low working intelligence (obeying commands).
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 4-18 |
| House Training | Easy | Hard |
| Crate Training | Medium | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
Aussiedoodle: Combines mouthiness with herding nipping and high intelligence. Will outsmart novice owners. Harder than a Cavalier (2/10) but easier than a Malinois (9/10).
Basset Hound: Unlike eager-to-please breeds, Basset puppies are heavy, stubborn, and extremely difficult to housebreak. The 'flat Basset' maneuver (lying down and refusing to move) is common. Patience is essential.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 18 months |
| Adolescence | 6-24 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-9 | 2-7 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-4 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 35-58 cm | 33-38 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Medium | Large |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years | 10–12 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 6-8 |
Aussiedoodle Coat
Basset Hound Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Designer companion combining intelligence and low-shedding coat | Trailing rabbits and hare through dense cover for hunters on foot |
| Origin | North America, late 1990s/early 2000s | France, 16th century (name from 'bas' meaning 'low') |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | High |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Hard |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Medium |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Medium | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.8m | 1.2m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Medium |
Health & Common Conditions
Aussiedoodle Health Issues
Basset Hound Health Issues
Aussiedoodle Suggested Tests
- MDR1 DNA test (MANDATORY)
- Hip Evaluation
- Eye Examination
- Adrenal Function Tests
- Skin Biopsy (if skin issues)
Basset Hound Suggested Tests
- Gonioscopy testing (for glaucoma)
- Thrombopathia DNA test
- Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) DNA test
- Annual Ophthalmologist Exam
- Hip Evaluation (OFA)
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Medium |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | High |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Medium |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grains | Corn, Wheat, Soy |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | Medium | High |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Common |
Senior Care & Aging
Aussiedoodle Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Hip dysplasia progression
- Cognitive decline
- Vision loss (PRA)
Highly active brains can be prone to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Ramps may be needed for cars/beds.
Basset Hound Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis (often early onset)
- Mobility decline
- Cognitive decline with increased anxiety
- Vision loss from glaucoma
Many seniors need help standing up or navigating stairs. Ramps become essential. Arthritis management is critical. Cognitive decline can worsen separation anxiety and night howling.
Grooming & Care
Aussiedoodle
high maintenanceBasset Hound
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Aussiedoodle Daily Life
Basset Hound Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | 25-50lbs (Mini) / Over 50lbs (Standard) | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | None |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Medium | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200-3,500+ | $1,000-2,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,200–$3,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $200–$300 | $150–$280 |
| Yearly Range | $2,400–$3,600 | $2,500–$3,500 |
| Food / Month | $50-80 | $50-80 |
| Insurance / Month | $50-90 | $70-140 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $50-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,000 | $500-1,500 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Aussiedoodle Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Basset Hound Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Aussiedoodle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | None | Moderate |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Strong |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Rare |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Medium |
Aussiedoodle Quirks
The Aussie Lean
Will lean their entire body weight against you as a sign of affection
Goose-ing
May nip the butts or heels of guests as they leave the house (herding instinct)
Counter Surfing
Intelligence allows them to solve 'kitchen puzzles' to get food
The Stare
Inherited from Aussie parent - intense eye contact to get your attention
Basset Hound Quirks
The Hound Smell
A distinct musky, yeasty odor from coat oils (sebum) that returns days after bathing and transfers to furniture
The Bay
A loud, mournful howl (not a bark) that carries for long distances and penetrates walls
The Flat Basset
When bored with training, they simply lay down and refuse to move - this is passive resistance, not obedience failure
Scent Deafness
Their ears literally fold forward when tracking to block sound, making them completely unresponsive to recall
Frequently Asked Questions
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