Basset Hound vs Dachshund

Which dog breed is right for you?

Basset Hound

Size
40–65 lbs, 11–15 in
Lifespan
12–13 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Patient Easygoing Devoted Stubborn

Dachshund

Size
8–32 lbs, 5–9 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Clever Stubborn Devoted Lively

About the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound was developed in France — the name comes from the French word "bas" meaning low — as a scent hound bred to track rabbits and hare through dense underbrush. Standing just 11–15 inches tall but weighing a substantial 40–65 pounds, the Basset is a heavy-boned, low-slung dog with the second-best nose in the canine world, surpassed only by the Bloodhound. Their short, smooth coat comes in classic tri-color, red-and-white, and lemon-and-white patterns, and while easy to brush, they are moderate shedders.

Temperament & Personality

Basset Hounds are famously easygoing, patient, and gentle — their laid-back demeanor makes them wonderful family dogs who get along with virtually everyone, including children and other pets. They are pack animals at heart and dislike being left alone for long periods, often expressing their displeasure with mournful howling. Despite their placid appearance, Bassets can be surprisingly stubborn, especially when they've caught an interesting scent.

Pros

  • Gentle, patient temperament — excellent with children and other animals
  • Low exercise requirements compared to most hound breeds
  • Friendly and sociable with strangers, other dogs, and even cats
  • Charming, expressive face and endearing personality that wins hearts easily

Cons

  • Prone to obesity without careful diet management due to their low activity level
  • Loud, deep bay and howl that can disturb neighbors
  • Ears require frequent cleaning to prevent chronic ear infections
  • Susceptible to intervertebral disc disease, bloat, and glaucoma

A Basset Hound's soulful eyes and gentle heart might be exactly what your family needs — find adoptable Basset Hounds on Puplister.

About the Dachshund

The Dachshund — affectionately known as the "wiener dog" — was developed in Germany over 300 years ago to hunt badgers in their underground dens, which explains their uniquely elongated body and short, powerful legs. They come in two sizes — Standard (16–32 pounds) and Miniature (under 11 pounds) — and three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired, each with its own personality nuances. Their color palette is remarkably varied, including red, black and tan, chocolate, dapple, brindle, and piebald patterns.

Temperament & Personality

Dachshunds are bold, clever, and remarkably stubborn — a combination that makes them endlessly entertaining and occasionally infuriating. They're fiercely loyal to their families and can be surprisingly courageous watchdogs, barking with the intensity of a dog three times their size. While affectionate with their people, they can be wary of strangers and may not tolerate rough handling from young children.

Pros

  • Compact size and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment companions
  • Bold, entertaining personality — constantly amusing their owners with clownish antics
  • Long lifespan of 12–16 years with proper care and weight management
  • Wirehaired variety sheds minimally and is well-suited for allergy-conscious homes

Cons

  • Extremely prone to intervertebral disc disease — 1 in 4 will experience back problems
  • Notoriously difficult to housebreak — often takes 6+ months of consistent training
  • Strong prey drive and tunneling instinct — will dig up gardens and chase small animals relentlessly
  • Prone to obesity, which dramatically increases the risk of spinal injuries

Charmed by these spirited little hounds? Find Dachshunds seeking loving homes on Puplister today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Basset Hound and a Dachshund?
The Basset Hound is 40–65 lbs, 11–15 in sized while the Dachshund is 8–32 lbs, 5–9 in sized. They differ in size (40–65 lbs, 11–15 in vs 8–32 lbs, 5–9 in), lifespan (12–13 years vs 12–16 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Basset Hound or Dachshund?
Basset Hound is generally good with kids. Dachshund is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Basset Hound or Dachshund?
The Basset Hound has a lifespan of 12–13 years while the Dachshund has a lifespan of 12–16 years.

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