Afghan Hound vs Basset Hound

Hound · Large vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Basset Hound.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Afghan Hound has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Afghan Hound sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundBasset Hound
Group
HoundHound
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
AfghanistanFrance
Height (male)
27"14–15"
Height (female)
25"14–15"
Weight (male)
60 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a charming, patient, low-key scenthound on stubby legs — Hush Puppies mascot, second-best nose to bloodhound. Originally from France, this medium hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as charming, patient, low-key.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity