The Ba-Shar is a unique mixed breed dog that combines the distinctive features of the Chinese Shar-Pei and the Basset Hound. This hybrid dog inherits characteristics from both parent breeds, resulting in a low-riding, wrinkly-faced companion with a loyal and affectionate nature. Ba-Shars are known for their distinctive appearance and gentle temperament, making them popular among dog enthusiasts looking for a unique pet with a blend of traits from two very different breeds.
Key Facts
- Size: Medium
- Weight: 40-60 pounds
- Height: 10-14 inches
- Coat: Short, dense, and often wrinkled
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, and sometimes stubborn
- Energy Level: Low to moderate
- Exercise Needs: Moderate
- Shedding: Moderate
- Grooming: Regular, especially around skin folds
Character Traits
Ba-Shars typically inherit a blend of personality traits from their Shar-Pei and Basset Hound parents. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families, often forming strong bonds with their owners. These dogs can be gentle and patient, making them good companions for families with children. However, they may also inherit some stubbornness from both parent breeds, which can sometimes make training challenging.
Ba-Shars are generally calm and laid-back dogs, inheriting the Basset Hound’s easygoing nature. They can be protective of their families but are usually not overly aggressive. These dogs may have a strong prey drive due to the Basset Hound’s hunting background, which means they might chase small animals. Ba-Shars are typically good with other dogs but may require proper socialization from an early age to ensure they get along well with other pets and people.
Intelligence is a common trait in Ba-Shars, although they may not always be eager to please their owners, which can make training sessions require patience and consistency. They can be independent thinkers, a trait inherited from the Shar-Pei side. Despite their sometimes stubborn nature, Ba-Shars are generally good-natured and make loving family pets when properly trained and socialized.
History & Origins
The Ba-Shar is a relatively new mixed breed, likely originating within the last few decades as part of the designer dog trend. While the exact origins of the Ba-Shar are not well-documented, we can look at the history of its parent breeds to understand its background.
The Shar-Pei is an ancient breed from China, known for its distinctive wrinkled skin and blue-black tongue. Originally bred for hunting, guarding, and later for dog fighting, the Shar-Pei nearly went extinct in the 20th century before being revived and gaining popularity in the West. The Basset Hound, on the other hand, originated in France and was bred for hunting small game. Known for its keen sense of smell and distinctive long, low-set body, the Basset Hound has been popular in Europe and North America for centuries.
The Ba-Shar likely emerged as breeders sought to combine the unique physical characteristics of the Shar-Pei with the friendly, laid-back nature of the Basset Hound. This mix aims to create a dog with a distinctive appearance and a more approachable temperament than the sometimes aloof Shar-Pei. While not recognized by major kennel clubs as a standardized breed, the Ba-Shar has gained a following among dog lovers who appreciate its unique blend of traits from two very different purebred dogs.
Health Concerns
The Ba-Shar, like many mixed breeds, can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Common concerns include:
- Skin problems: Due to the Shar-Pei’s wrinkly skin, Ba-Shars may be prone to skin fold infections and allergies.
- Eye issues: Entropion (inward-turning eyelids) and cherry eye are potential problems.
- Joint issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, common in Basset Hounds, may affect Ba-Shars.
- Ear infections: The long, droopy ears of the Basset Hound can make Ba-Shars susceptible to ear problems.
- Bloat: Deep-chested dogs like Ba-Shars can be at risk for this dangerous condition.
Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for managing these potential health issues. Owners should also be vigilant about cleaning skin folds and ears to prevent infections.
Exercise Needs
Ba-Shars have moderate exercise needs, balancing the low-energy tendencies of the Basset Hound with the more active nature of the Shar-Pei. Aim for:
- 30-60 minutes of daily exercise
- Two to three walks per day
- Interactive play sessions
- Mental stimulation activities
While they don’t require intense exercise, Ba-Shars benefit from regular activity to maintain a healthy weight and prevent boredom. Short walks, gentle play sessions, and puzzle toys can help meet their physical and mental stimulation needs. Be mindful of their potential for overheating due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) features inherited from the Shar-Pei parent.
Space Requirements
Ba-Shars are adaptable dogs that can thrive in various living situations, including:
- Apartments
- Houses with small yards
- Larger homes with spacious outdoor areas
While they don’t require a large amount of space, Ba-Shars do appreciate having room to move around comfortably. A small to medium-sized yard is ideal, but not necessary if regular walks and outdoor time are provided. Indoor living is suitable for these dogs, as they tend to be relatively calm and don’t need excessive space to burn off energy. However, ensure they have a comfortable resting area and enough room for their bed, food and water bowls, and toys.
Nutrition & Feeding
Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health of Ba-Shars, considering their potential for weight gain and skin issues. Key nutritional considerations include:
- High-quality protein: To support muscle maintenance and overall health
- Controlled fat content: To prevent obesity while providing necessary energy
- Omega-3 fatty acids: To promote healthy skin and coat
- Joint-supporting nutrients: Such as glucosamine and chondroitin
Feed adult Ba-Shars twice daily, measuring portions carefully to prevent overfeeding. The amount will vary based on the dog’s size, age, and activity level. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan and feeding schedule. Consider using elevated food and water bowls to accommodate the Ba-Shar’s potentially long, low-set body structure, which can make eating from ground-level bowls uncomfortable.
Grooming Tips
The Ba-Shar’s grooming needs can vary depending on which parent breed it takes after more. If it inherits the Shar-Pei’s short, bristly coat, grooming may be relatively low-maintenance. However, if it has the Basset Hound’s longer coat, more frequent brushing will be necessary. Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) helps remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Pay special attention to the skin folds, if present, as they can trap moisture and debris, leading to skin infections. Clean these areas gently with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
Ba-Shars may inherit the Basset Hound’s long, floppy ears, which are prone to infections. Check and clean the ears weekly using a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner. Trim nails regularly, ideally every 2-3 weeks. Brush teeth several times a week to prevent dental issues. Bathe your Ba-Shar as needed, typically every 4-8 weeks, using a gentle dog shampoo. If the dog has skin folds, ensure they are completely dry after bathing to prevent skin irritations.
Training Approach
Training a Ba-Shar requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. These dogs can inherit the stubborn streak of both parent breeds, making training potentially challenging. Start socialization and training early to prevent the development of unwanted behaviors. Use reward-based methods, offering treats, praise, and playtime as incentives for good behavior.
Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and fun to maintain the Ba-Shar’s interest. Both Basset Hounds and Shar-Peis can be independent thinkers, so it’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader through consistent rules and boundaries. Focus on basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and leash training. Ba-Shars may have a strong prey drive from their Basset Hound heritage, so recall training is particularly important.
Be prepared for potential stubbornness during housetraining. Maintain a consistent schedule and use positive reinforcement. Crate training can be beneficial for both housebreaking and providing a safe space for your Ba-Shar. Always use gentle methods and avoid harsh corrections, as these dogs can be sensitive. With patience and consistency, Ba-Shars can become well-behaved companions.
