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A Walrus dog isn’t exactly going to be walking around with tusks. Neither does it even look anything like a Walrus facially…
It’s the wrinkles and folds of this pooch that earns it such a peculiar name.
Of course, it’s also a mixed breed between the ever-curious Basset Hound and loyal Shar-Pei. As a result, a Walrus dog has unpredictable appearance and personality traits based on inherited genetics from its parents.
Either way, this cueball is loyal, intelligent, and independent, but still never wants you far away for too long.
If you’re in awe, you can unravel loads of more cuteness as I walk you through the appearance, personality, health problems, and how to find a mini walrus.
Let’s get to it.
Basset Hound and Sharpei Mix – Walrus Dog Bio-Data
The Walrus Dog, which is a mixed breed of the Basset Hound and Shar-Pei, is also referred to as Ba-Shar dog or Sharp Asset.
As with most designer breeds, its origin can’t be pinpointed to a specific date. However, it’s likely to have originated in the 1990s, about the same time when crossbreeds became a thing.
But you can find out more about the history of its pure breed parents. More on that later.
Basset Hound History
The Basset Hound comes from a French heritage that dates back to the 1800s. Although, some historians claim it also has its descendants from Great Britain.
For what it’s worth, Basset is the French word for “low,” which sort of set things straight.
That being said, like Shar Peis, the Basset Hound was bred as a hunting dog. It comes as no surprise since it has a sense of smell that’s second to none other than bloodhounds — a trait that possibly got them their family name (hound).
Anyways, due to its powerful sense of smell, the Basset was extremely popular among French Aristocrats who saw hunting as a way of life. And that was a lot of them.
The American Kennel Club later registered Basset Hounds in 1885.
Sharpei History
Shar Peis have a rich and ancient heritage that dates back to 200BC during the Han Dynasty. Although, some sources say the dogs found on artworks during this era could as well have been Pugs.
Moving forward, the Chinese Shar-Pei was initially bred by the upper-class citizen as hunters, herders, and protectors of livestock and property.
Fast forward to the communist regime. Dog ownership was discouraged and so many adorable breeds faced a slaughter sentence, including the Sharpei.
In a bid to save them, a Hong Kong breeder, Matzo Law, smuggled about 200 dogs into the United States to save them from extinction.
The rest they say is history. Shar-Peis continued to flourish in America but weren’t recognized by the American Kennel Club as a breed until 1992.
Shar-Pei – Basset Hound Mix Physical Appearance
Again, a Bashar dog may take a look that bends towards one end of its parents or look like both of them. It all boils down to which parent has the stronger gene.
Knowing the appearance of the parent breeds gives you an idea of what to expect when you’re getting your mini Walrus dog.
Basset Hound Appearance
The Basset Hound is also popular for its short legs. It makes more sense when you know it’s named after the French word for “low.”
The short limbs of the Basset Hound are a result of the prevalence of certain type dwarfism in the breed. Hence the short, but really powerful legs. Although large paws also make up for what it lacks in limb length.
Adults can reach a peak height of 15 inches, and weigh anywhere between 40 to 65 pounds.
Another prominent characteristic of the Basset’s appearance is the sad and droopy face. Yes, almost like that of Droopy from Tom and Jerry. This is as a result of its long ears and wrinkled face.
The Basset has a short-haired coat that’s usually tri-colored with a mix of black, tan, and white.
Chinese Sharpei Appearance
The Sharp-Pei has a distinctive cylindrical body shape and short triangular ears. It also has a squarish and wrinkly face that looks like the head of a hippo.
The Shar-Pei mostly has a loose and rough to touch coat. This is because they were originally bred as hunting and fight dogs, making it hard for other animals to grab unto.
The coat is solid-colored, with colors like black, brown, cream, and many more. Actually, there are only about 16 colors recognized by the AKC for this breed.
It has some other unique physical characteristics like its blue-blackish tongue. Also, the famed wrinkles of the face clear up as it gets older!
Although some adults may become more wrinkled, mostly, they would only have wrinkles on their face, shoulders, and tail base as they age.
On the other hand, an adult Shar-Pei usually grows up to about 22 inches tall, weighing between 35 to 65 pounds. You should also know that there are miniature and toy Shar-Pei that only grow up to 18 and 15 inches, respectively.
Bashar Dog Appearance
For the most part, the Walrus dog would take the stature of the Basset, and wrinkly coat of the Shar-Pei.
It would have the large head of its parent breeds, with wrinkles on the forehead and a muzzled face. To round off its awesome cuteness, it has piercing eyes to cheer up its looks.
Due to the inherited Basset dwarfism, it only stands between 10 to 13 inches high. Overall, it’s a medium-sized dog weighing around 30 to 50 pounds.
The coat of the Walrus dog is likely to be wrinkly and somewhat coarse but in a good crinkly way.
Walrus Dog Temperament and Personality
Just like with appearance, it’s almost impossible to be sure of the temperament of a Walrus dog. However, it’s predisposed to be a loyal, intelligent canine friend.
Its loyal and protective nature makes it a good family dog and guard dog as well. Although, it may sometimes show hostility to strangers and most likely chase off other small animals.
It’s also important to mention that its parents have hunting instincts, with one of them having super-strong scent tracking. If this activates while you’re out for a walk, your dog may bolt off to track a scent.
Socializing the mini walrus from an early age usually straightens out any aggressive or instinctive tendencies to run amuck.
Despite all of these, the walrus dog is an affectionate breed that’ll bond well with owners who stay home most of the time. If you’re expecting tricks, you may be a little disappointed, but it’s still a lovable and goofy dog.
All in all, the Bashar dog loves, cuddling, and hanging around with its owners. In fact, if you leave him alone for too long, he’d start to howl and maybe even destroy things. But it’s not an avid barker so your sleep won’t be disturbed.
Mini Walrus Training and Obedience
I can’t stress this enough. You should train your mini walrus puppy as soon as you get one.
Else, he’d grow up to be aggressive towards strangers, especially if you’ve got cats and other dogs. Even with training and socialization, a mini walrus may still show little signs of aggression.
For instance, he may remain aggressive with other animals when it’s food time, even if they generally get along well. So, in this case, you’ll just have to feed him separately.
You must train this dog breed with a firm hand to keep him under control. Also, positive reinforcement training works the magic, but firm handling is the watchword.
On the other hand, a walrus dog would require moderate exercise daily. Say, about 30 minutes daily to keep them satisfied. It can be a little lazy sometimes, if not most times. Whenever its tired, it’d lay flat out on the ground, which, in a way, is comical.
Health Issues with a Basset Hound – Chinese Sharpei Mix
To set things straight, your cute little furball is prone to life-threatening allergies and diseases.
And most times, it’s not even going to be its fault, but through an inheritance from its parent breeds. In fact, Basset Hounds have the highest incidence of conformation-related disorders.
Breeders should test the parent breeds for common health issues.
For instance, they are both prone to eye issues, so an ophthalmology test is necessary.
Now, if you happen to own a Walrus dog with healthy genes, here’s a common problem: skin infections. It’s prone to skin infections, like mucinosis and pyoderma, and more, due to moisture buildup in its wrinkles. The eyes and ears are even more easily affected.
Sometimes, a mini walrus pup may have an abundance of wrinkles that causes the eyelids to rub against its eyes. Entropion, as its called, can cause some level of discomfort and pain, as the eyes come in contact with facial hair and the eyelashes. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct this deformity.
Also, there is a slim chance this breed might suffer the Swollen Hocks Syndrome. If not treated early, the hock may become severely swollen, and in serious cases, lead to kidney failure.
Aside from these few potential issues, this breed would stay healthy with proper care and routine visits to the vet. On average, a healthy walrus dog has a life expectancy of approximately 8 to 10 years.
Proper Care for your Walrus Dog
Although some folks say it’s a misconception that skin issues develop from its wrinkles, walrus dogs need proper grooming.
Brush his coat at least twice a week. Also, you should examine and clean the eyes and ears regularly.
Not to forget.
Sharp Asset isn’t a frequent shedder.
Like the Mini Hippo dog, it only sheds seasonally, about twice a year. So, you can expect minimal fur attacking on your home and car furniture. And less risk of allergies as well.
You may do more harm than good if you fix up a walrus pup with treats frequently. Walrus dogs are pretty lazy and may risk becoming overweight. Nonetheless, these cuties wouldn’t pass up a chance to cuddle.
All in all, grooming requirements for this breed are minimal but essential.
Hertzko’s Slicker Brush gently removes loose hair and eliminates tangles, knots, dander and trapped dirt.
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Rescuing a Healthy Mini Walrus Dog Breed
Don’t get me started on the perks of rescuing a dog. Essentially, you give an abandoned/lost pup a chance to start life on a fresh, and definitely happy page.
And you can give a walrus dog this chance, and avoid crafty breeders in the process. It’s a win-win.
Besides, you won’t be seeing any surprises. A grown Bashar dog would display all the traits of its parent breeds if you take your time studying him at the shelter.
The only thing is, it may be impossible to access accurate health records and documentation at a dog shelter.
Again, ensure you spend some time with a potential rescue before taking the big step.
How About Buying A Mini Walrus Puppy?
First off, steer clear of pet stores and puppy farms.
Not only do you risk getting an unhealthy or socially awkward pup, but you give the breeders more reason to violate dogs.
That said, finding a respected breeder who can provide health records of both parents. This would help you avoid any inherited disorders and raise a happy pup.
Also, a reputable breeder should be open to refundable deposits. You can throw in a one-year health guarantee for your pup too.
Fun Facts About The Mini Walrus Dog Breed
- They are growing in popularity on Instagram. Sir Charlesworth V (@peacelovewrinkles) is one famous walrus dog on the gram that gives you a sneak peek into the day-to-day life of a walrus dog.
- They are recognized by the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, The Dog Registry of America, and the International Designer Canine Registry.
Final Thoughts
The Walrus dog is a calm, affectionate, and loyal dog. Also, it makes a sweet fur friend with the kids and good roomie in apartment buildings.
It’s no surprise it is rising in popularity. You can join the bandwagon if you can commit to early training and socialization.
Be sure to spend some time with a potential rescue at your local shelter before adoption. If you prefer a puppy instead, find a reputable breeder at all costs.
Toodles.
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