Basset Hound vs Bernese Mountain Dog

Hound · Medium vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Bernese Mountain Dog is the larger breed at 80–115 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Basset Hound.
  • The Basset Hound typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Basset Hound sheds less.
  • The Bernese Mountain Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasset HoundBernese Mountain Dog
Group
HoundWorking
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
FranceSwitzerland
Height (male)
14–15"25–27.5"
Height (female)
14–15"23–26"
Weight (male)
40–65 lbs80–115 lbs
Weight (female)
40–65 lbs70–95 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years7–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a good-natured, calm, strong tri-color farm dog from the Swiss Alps — gentle giants with short lifespans. Originally from Switzerland, this large working breed typically weighs 80–115 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as good-natured, calm, strong.

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Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity

Bernese Mountain Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat