Basset Hound vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Basset Hound and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Basset Hound
Long ears, soulful eyes, and an easygoing nature define this loyal companion. Basset Hounds are gentle, affectionate dogs who thrive in family settings and cherish close bonds.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Medium
23–29 kg
Short, dense
12–13 years
20–27 kg
Low activity needs
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Basset Hound
Gentle and welcoming with people and pets
Learns basic commands, can be stubborn
Prefers lounging to vigorous daily activity
Enjoys play but not overly exuberant
Adjusts well to different home environments
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Basset Hound
Ear infections, intervertebral disc disease
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Basset Hound
Good option
Easygoing temperament and manageable exercise needs suit inexperienced owners
Very suitable
Calm demeanor and moderate exercise needs fit apartment life well
Not ideal
Low energy levels may not match active, outdoorsy lifestyles
Great choice
Patient and gentle with children, generally tolerant of family activity
Highly suitable
Usually accepts other pets due to a gentle, non-territorial nature
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may become destructive
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Basset Hound
- Gentle and patient with children
- Affectionate and loyal family companion
- Excellent scent tracking ability
- Generally good with other dogs
- Low to moderate exercise requirements
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Basset Hound
- Prone to ear infections due to long ears
- Can be stubborn and independent-minded
- Tendency to gain weight easily
- Slow to house train compared to other breeds
- May bark or howl when left alone
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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