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Basset Hound vs Poodle

Discover the differences between Basset Hound and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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Basset Hound
France

Basset Hound

Hound Group
Medium

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.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–29 kg

Coat:

Short, dense

Lifespan:

12–13 years

Female:

20–27 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Basset Hound

Friendliness
5/5

Gentle and welcoming with people and pets

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands, can be stubborn

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers lounging to vigorous daily activity

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys play but not overly exuberant

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to different home environments

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Basset Hound

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (1–2 times weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Ear infections, intervertebral disc disease

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Basset Hound

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easygoing temperament and manageable exercise needs suit inexperienced owners

Apartment Living
4/5

Very suitable

Calm demeanor and moderate exercise needs fit apartment life well

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

Low energy levels may not match active, outdoorsy lifestyles

Kids
5/5

Great choice

Patient and gentle with children, generally tolerant of family activity

Multiple Pets
4/5

Highly suitable

Usually accepts other pets due to a gentle, non-territorial nature

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may become destructive

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

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

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

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

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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