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Caninpedia

Basset Hound vs Beagle

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Photo of the Basset Hound dog breed
Basset HoundPhoto: Cali1008 — Public domain (source)
Photo of the Beagle dog breed
BeaglePhoto: Unknown author — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)

Side by side

Comparison of Basset Hound and Beagle
TraitBasset HoundBeagle
GroupScent houndsScent hounds
SizeMediumSmall
Weight20–30 kg9–14 kg
Height at withers33–38 cm33–40 cm
Life expectancy10–12 years12–15 years
Energy
With children
With other dogs
Trainability
Grooming needs
Shedding
Heat tolerance
ApartmentYesYes

Key differences

  • Heavier: Basset Hound (about 25 kg vs 11.5 kg on average)
  • Longer life expectancy: Beagle (about 13.5 years vs 11 years on average)
  • More energetic: Beagle (4/5 vs 2/5)

Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.

Which one is right for you?

A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.

Apartment living
Basset Hound is the better fitBased on apartment suitability and energy.
Family with children
Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
First-time owner
Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
Hot climate
Beagle is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
Active owner
Beagle is the better fitBased on energy level.

Meet the two breeds

Beagle

Cheerful, sociable and led by its nose, the Beagle is an excellent family dog, but training takes patience.

Read the full Beagle profile

Other comparisons