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Caninpedia

Basset Hound vs Bloodhound

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Photo of the Basset Hound dog breed
Basset HoundPhoto: Cali1008 — Public domain (source)
Photo of the Bloodhound dog breed
BloodhoundPhoto: Mary Bloom, American Kennel Club — CC BY-SA 4.0 (source)

Side by side

Comparison of Basset Hound and Bloodhound
TraitBasset HoundBloodhound
GroupScent houndsScent hounds
SizeMediumLarge
Weight20–30 kg40–54 kg
Height at withers33–38 cm58–72 cm
Life expectancy10–12 years10–12 years
Energy
With children
With other dogs
Trainability
Grooming needs
Shedding
Heat tolerance
ApartmentYesNot recommended

Key differences

  • Heavier: Bloodhound (about 47 kg vs 25 kg on average)
  • Taller: Bloodhound (about 65 cm vs 35.5 cm on average)
  • Suited to apartments: Basset Hound only

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

Meet the two breeds

Bloodhound

With the most famous nose in the dog world, the Bloodhound is a gentle, patient and determined tracker with heavily wrinkled skin.

Read the full Bloodhound profile

Other comparisons