Hound Terrier Mix:
Traits, Breeds & What to Expect
Hound terrier mix dogs are some of the most energetic, intelligent, and characterful companions you can own. By combining two historically hardworking breed groups, these dogs often inherit a unique blend of instincts, personality, and appearance.
Whether you already have a hound terrier mix or are thinking of getting one, understanding the traits of both parent groups is key.
A Hound Terrier Mix Painting
Toby was a beautiful mix breed besenji and jack russell cross that I created in pastels. He had such endearing eyes!
What Is a Hound Terrier Mix?
A hound terrier mix is a cross between a dog from the hound group and one from the terrier group. These mixes are increasingly popular because they combine:
• the tracking ability of hounds
• the energy and determination of terriers
The result is often a dog that is:
• intelligent
• active
• full of personality
The Hound Group: Key Characteristics
The Beagle (Hound Portrait)
Hounds were originally bred for hunting, using either scent or sight to track prey.
Common traits of hounds:
• Excellent sense of smell
• Strong tracking instinct
• Loyal and affectionate
• Often relaxed at home
Popular hound breeds:
• Beagle
• Basenji
• Dachshund
• Whippet
• Basset Hound
While they are loving companions, hounds can sometimes follow scents obsessively and be difficult to recall off-lead.
The Terrier Group: Key Characteristics
The Miniature Schnauzer (Terrier Portrait)
Terriers were bred to hunt vermin, often working underground or in tight spaces.
Common traits of terriers:
• High energy
• Fearless and determined
• Playful and bold
• Strong prey drive
Popular terrier breeds:
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Border Terrier
• Fox Terrier
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Scottish Terrier
Terriers are full of personality — but they can also be stubborn, independent and prone to chasing small animals.
What Is a Hound Terrier Mix Like?
When you combine these two groups, you get a dog with a fascinating mix of traits.
Typical hound terrier mix characteristics:
• Energy levels: High — these dogs need regular exercise and stimulation
• Intelligence: Very smart, but sometimes independent
• Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and often mischievous
• Training: Can be challenging — consistency is key
• Prey drive: Usually strong (from both sides!)
Popular Hound Terrier Mix Breeds
A Hound Terrier mix portrait of a Jackabee in Pastels
Jackabee (Jack Russell Terrier × Beagle)
These mixes are especially popular — and for good reason.
• Energetic and fun-loving
• Highly intelligent
• Great family dogs (with enough exercise)
They combine the Beagle’s friendly nature with the Jack Russell’s bold personality.
The stunning alert ears of this Basenji Jack Russell mix illustrates how alert and elegant this cross breed is.
Basenji Terrier Mix (Basenji × Jack Russell)
This mix often produces a striking and expressive dog.
• Alert and curious
• Independent thinker
• Loyal but sometimes reserved
Basenji mixes are known for their unique personalities — often quieter than other dogs but full of character.
Other Hound Terrier Mixes
You may also come across:
• Beagle × Border Terrier
• Dachshund × Jack Russell (Jackshund)
• Whippet × Terrier mixes
• Basset Hound × Terrier crosses
Each mix varies widely depending on which traits dominate.
Why Hound Terrier Mixes Make Great Portrait Subjects
Hound terrier mixes are full of personality — and that individuality really shows in artwork. From their expressive eyes, alert ears and distinctive markings to their lively, curious expressions, these dogs can make for striking and characterful portraits.
Many owners choose to commission a portrait because:
• mixed breeds are truly one-of-a-kind
• their personality is hard to capture in a photo alone
• they want something lasting that reflects their dog’s character
Final Thoughts
A hound terrier mix combines two of the most distinctive dog groups into one unique companion. They are:
• energetic
• intelligent
• full of character
And for many owners, that individuality is exactly what makes them so special.
"Phoebe" (Portrait in Pastels, 2015)
A Lasting Way to Celebrate Your Dog
Your dog’s personality — the alert look, the playful energy, the quiet companionship — is what makes them special. A custom portrait captures that in a way photographs sometimes can’t. Over the last twenty five years I have been creating portraits for customers both here in the UK and across the world. Photos of your dog can be emailed to me and then the finished work is usually dispatched within three to four weeks of ordering.
To find out more, you might like to view more examples of my work, contact me directly (see below), or commission a portrait online.
Contact Julie
• ask me a question by filling in this form
• email your photos to see which ones might be possible to create a portrait from
• you can also telephone me on +44 (0)1243 773123
• or order a portrait online now