Basset HoundVSBloodhound
The Basset Hound and Bloodhound are both world-class scent hounds with distinctive droopy ears and wrinkled faces. The Basset is compact and low-energy; the Bloodhound is massive with the most sensitive nose of any dog breed on earth.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Basset Hound | Bloodhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 40–65 lbs, 11–15 in | 80–130 lbs, 23–27 in |
| Energy Level | Low | Moderate |
| Shedding | Moderate | Moderate |
| Trainability | Moderate (very stubborn) | Moderate (nose-focused) |
| Good With Kids | ✓Excellent | Very Good |
| Apartment Friendly | ✓Good | Poor |
| Average Lifespan | 10–12 years | 10–12 years |
| Monthly Cost (est.) | ✓$80–$180 | $150–$300 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Basset Hound if…
Families who want a low-energy, gentle, compact scent hound for casual companionship.
Choose a Bloodhound if…
Owners who want the world's best tracking nose in a large, gentle giant package and have space for a very big dog.
Grooming & Shedding: Basset Hound vs Bloodhound
Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds both have short, dense coats that shed moderately year-round. Weekly brushing with a rubber mitt manages loose hair for both breeds. Their most critical grooming tasks relate to their distinctive facial features rather than their coats: both breeds have long, floppy ears that trap moisture and are highly prone to ear infections — weekly ear cleaning is non-negotiable. The Bloodhound's extensive facial wrinkles and neck folds must be cleaned regularly to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Basset Hounds also have skin folds that need attention. Both breeds drool considerably due to their loose jowls. Professional grooming is not required for coat maintenance, but owners must commit to consistent ear and skin fold care to prevent costly infections.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Basset Hounds are gentle, patient, and amiable — one of the most laid-back hound breeds. They are excellent with children and other dogs, rarely showing aggression. Their low energy makes them easy companions for relaxed households, though they can be quite vocal with their signature melodious howl. They are stubborn in training — their nose simply overrides commands. Bloodhounds are larger and more determined, possessing the world's most sensitive nose and the single-mindedness to follow a scent trail for hours. They are gentle and affectionate with families but require more space and exercise than Bassets. Both breeds can be challenging to recall once a scent captures their attention. For a lower-energy, more compact scent hound family pet, the Basset Hound is the easier choice.
Compare pet insurance for Basset Hound and Bloodhound
Both breeds have different health profiles — find the right coverage level before your first vet visit.
Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which has a better nose?
Bloodhounds have the most powerful nose of any dog breed — they have 300 million scent receptors compared to about 220 million in Basset Hounds. Bloodhound tracks have been used as legal evidence in criminal cases. Both are exceptional, but the Bloodhound reigns supreme.
Do both breeds drool a lot?
Both are prolific droolers due to their loose jowls. Bloodhounds are generally heavier droolers. If you are sensitive about dog drool, neither breed is the right choice for you.
Which is easier to train?
Neither breed is easy to train. Both follow their nose rather than commands once a scent captures their attention. Basset Hounds are stubborn; Bloodhounds are laser-focused on tracking. Short, positive, scent-based training sessions work best for both.
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