Basset Hound vs Shih Tzu

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

Shih Tzu

Size
9–16 lbs, 9–11 in
Lifespan
10–18 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Affectionate Playful Outgoing Loyal

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 Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu — meaning "lion dog" in Mandarin — was bred for centuries within the walls of the Chinese imperial palace, likely from crosses between the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. These small, sturdy dogs stand 9 to 10.5 inches tall and weigh 9 to 16 pounds, with a slightly longer body than they are tall and a proud, flowing gait. Their luxurious double coat grows continuously and can reach floor length, coming in virtually every color and combination, with a distinctive chrysanthemum-like pattern on the face where hair grows in all directions.

Temperament & Personality

Shih Tzus are affectionate, outgoing, and delightfully playful — bred solely as companion dogs, they have centuries of experience perfecting the art of being a devoted lapdog. They are friendly with nearly everyone, including children, strangers, and other pets, making them one of the most sociable toy breeds available. Shih Tzus are happy, adaptable, and surprisingly sturdy for their size, with a mischievous charm that keeps their families entertained.

Pros

  • Exceptionally friendly and sociable with people of all ages and other animals
  • Low exercise requirements — short walks and indoor play satisfy their needs
  • Minimal shedding when coat is kept in a shorter "puppy clip"
  • Adaptable and content in apartments, condos, and any living situation

Cons

  • Long coat demands daily brushing or frequent professional grooming
  • Brachycephalic structure contributes to breathing issues and heat intolerance
  • Prone to eye problems (proptosis, corneal ulcers), ear infections, and dental disease
  • Can be stubborn about housetraining — patience and consistency are essential

A Shih Tzu's sole mission in life is to love and be loved — find yours waiting on Puplister today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Basset Hound and a Shih Tzu?
The Basset Hound is 40–65 lbs, 11–15 in sized while the Shih Tzu is 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in sized. They differ in size (40–65 lbs, 11–15 in vs 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in), lifespan (12–13 years vs 10–18 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Basset Hound or Shih Tzu?
Basset Hound is generally good with kids. Shih Tzu is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Basset Hound or Shih Tzu?
The Basset Hound has a lifespan of 12–13 years while the Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10–18 years.

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