Basset Hound vs Bloodhound: Which Scent Hound Fits You?

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds have rich histories rooted in scent tracking. Both breeds developed unique traits over time to excel at hunting and tracking. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences of both dog breeds.

Physical Characteristics

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds have distinct looks that set them apart. You’ll notice key differences in their size, build, and facial features.

Basset Hound Features

• Basset Hounds are short and long dogs. You’ll spot their droopy ears and wrinkled faces right away. They stand 11 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.
• These dogs have heavy bodies on short, strong legs. A Basset’s weight ranges from 40 to 65 pounds. Their coat is short and smooth, often in tri-color or bi-color patterns.
• Bassets have large paws and a long tail. You’ll see their sad-looking eyes and loose skin, especially around the face and neck. Their long ears can reach 10 inches in length.

Bloodhound Appearance

• Bloodhounds are much larger than Basset Hounds. They stand 23 to 27 inches tall and weigh 80 to 110 pounds. You’ll notice their big, muscular bodies right away.
• These dogs have loose, wrinkled skin all over. Their face has deep folds, especially around the eyes and muzzle. Bloodhounds have very long ears that hang down.
• Their coat is short and dense, usually in black and tan, liver and tan, or red colors. You’ll see their deep-set eyes and long, strong tail. Bloodhounds have a large nose perfect for tracking scents.

Temperament and Personality

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds have distinct personalities that shape their behavior as family pets. Their temperaments differ in key ways that can affect how well they fit into your household.

Basset Hound Temperament

• Basset Hounds are known for their friendly nature. They’re gentle, patient, and good with children, making them great family dogs.
• You’ll find Bassets to be laid-back and easygoing most of the time. They enjoy lounging around and don’t need constant activity.
• These dogs can be stubborn, especially during training. Their independent streak means they may not always listen to commands.
• Bassets are social animals. They like being around people and other pets. Leaving them alone for long periods can lead to boredom and mischief.

Bloodhound Personality

• Bloodhounds are gentle giants with a calm temperament. They’re affectionate and patient, which makes them good family pets.
• You’ll notice Bloodhounds are more energetic than Bassets. They need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
• These dogs have a strong independent streak. This can make training challenging at times. Consistency and patience are key when working with Bloodhounds.
• Bloodhounds are known for their determination, especially when following a scent. This focus can sometimes make them seem stubborn or single-minded.
• They’re friendly with people and other animals. Bloodhounds often get along well in multi-pet households.

Exercise and Training

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds have different exercise needs and training challenges. Both breeds require patience and consistent positive reinforcement for successful training.

Training Techniques

Basset Hounds can be stubborn and independent, making training a bit tricky. You’ll need to be patient and use plenty of treats to keep them motivated. Short, fun training sessions work best for these dogs. Bloodhounds are intelligent but can also be stubborn. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. Early socialization is crucial for both breeds to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults.

For both breeds, focus on:

• Basic obedience commands
• Leash training
• Scent work (to engage their natural abilities)

Remember to keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest.

Exercise Requirements

Basset Hounds have moderate exercise needs. A daily walk and some playtime in a secure area are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy. Be careful not to over-exercise them, as their short legs can lead to joint issues.

Bloodhounds need more exercise due to their larger size and higher energy levels. Aim for:

• 1-2 hours of daily exercise
• Long walks or hikes
• Scent games to stimulate their minds

Both breeds enjoy sniffing and tracking, so incorporating these activities into their exercise routine can be beneficial. Always supervise outdoor time, as their strong noses may lead them to wander off if they catch an interesting scent.

Care and Maintenance

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds need regular care to stay healthy and happy. Their unique features require special attention.

Grooming Needs

• Basset Hounds have short, dense coats that shed moderately. Brush them weekly to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Their long ears need cleaning 1-2 times a week to prevent infections.
• Bloodhounds have looser skin and a short, dense coat. They shed more than Bassets and need brushing 2-3 times a week. Clean their facial wrinkles daily to prevent skin infections.
• Both breeds drool, so you’ll need to wipe their mouths often. Trim their nails monthly and brush their teeth 2-3 times a week.

Health and Lifespan

• Basset Hounds typically live 10-12 years. They’re prone to ear infections due to their long ears. Watch for signs of back problems and obesity.
• Bloodhounds have a lifespan of 8-10 years. They can develop hip dysplasia and bloat. Their loose skin makes them susceptible to skin infections.
• Both breeds may experience eye problems. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for early detection of health issues. Keep their weight in check to prevent joint problems.

Utility and Roles

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds excel in different roles due to their unique traits. These scent hounds have specialized abilities that make them suitable for various tasks and living situations.

Scent Work Proficiency

• Bloodhounds have an exceptional sense of smell, making them top performers in scent work. Their powerful noses allow them to track scents over long distances and time periods. You’ll often see Bloodhounds used in search and rescue operations and law enforcement.
• Basset Hounds also have strong scenting abilities. Their short stature lets them track scents close to the ground. While not as powerful as Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds are still skilled trackers. They’re often used for hunting small game.
• Both breeds can participate in scent work activities as a fun way to engage their natural instincts.

Companion and Family Integration

• Basset Hounds are known for their friendly and laid-back demeanor, making them excellent family pets. They’re patient with children and get along well with other pets. Their calm nature suits apartments and smaller homes.
• Bloodhounds can also be loving companions, but their larger size requires more space. They’re gentle giants who form strong bonds with their families. Both breeds can make good therapy dogs due to their gentle natures.
• You’ll find both Bassets and Bloodhounds to be affectionate and loyal. They thrive on human companionship and do best in homes where they get plenty of attention and interaction.

Behavioral Considerations

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds have distinct personalities that affect their behavior at home and outdoors. These traits also impact how they interact with people and other animals.

Indoor and Outdoor Behavior

• Basset Hounds are laid-back and friendly. They adapt well to apartment living due to their moderate energy level. These dogs need daily walks but don’t require intense exercise.
• Bloodhounds have a higher energy level. They thrive with more space and outdoor time. Their strong tracking abilities make them excellent hunting dogs.
• Both breeds have a strong prey drive. They may chase small animals outdoors. Keep them on a leash during walks to prevent them from following scents.
• Basset Hounds tend to be quieter indoors. Bloodhounds are more vocal and may bark more often.

Socialization and Separation Anxiety

Both breeds are social and enjoy human company. Early socialization helps them get along with other pets and people. Basset Hounds are generally easygoing with strangers. Bloodhounds can be more reserved but warm up quickly.

Separation anxiety can affect both breeds. Basset Hounds may be more prone to this issue. To prevent problems:

• Gradually increase alone time
• Provide engaging toys
• Consider a dog walker for longer absences

Bloodhounds may handle being alone better, but still need attention and exercise. Their strong noses can lead to destructive behavior if bored.

Bottom Line

Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds both make wonderful companions with distinct personalities and care needs. If you’re interested in bringing one of these lovable breeds into your home, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder to ensure a healthy start. Trusted sources connect you with breeders who prioritize health and socialization, making it easier to find a happy, well-adjusted puppy. PuppySpot, for example, offers a $300 discount and matches you with carefully vetted breeders, helping you welcome the perfect Basset Hound or Bloodhound into your family with confidence.