Dog breed comparison
Beagle vs Basset Hound
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The Basset Hound is the bigger breed, about 15 kg heavier on average. The Beagle tends to live about 2 years longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Beagle | Basset Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Hound Dogs | Hound Dogs |
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Height | 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder | Up to 14 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 18 to 30 pounds | 50 to 65 pounds |
| Life span | 10 to 15 years | 10 to 12 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Drooling
The Basset Hound drools more than the Beagle.
Energy
The Beagle has more energy than the Basset Hound.
Exercise needs
The Beagle needs more exercise than the Basset Hound.
Copes alone
The Basset Hound copes better when left alone than the Beagle.
Easy to train
The Basset Hound is easier to train than the Beagle.
Shedding
The Basset Hound sheds more than the Beagle.
Which to choose
Beagle or Basset Hound?
Choose the Beagle if…
- You want a dog that drools less
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a dog that sheds less
Choose the Basset Hound if…
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
- You want a dog that is easier to train
Questions.
Is the Beagle or the Basset Hound bigger, and which lives longer?
The Basset Hound is the bigger breed, about 15 kg heavier on average. The Beagle tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Beagle or the Basset Hound?
The Basset Hound is generally easier to train than the Beagle. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Beagle or the Basset Hound?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Beagle sheds less than the Basset Hound. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
