Basset Hound vs Chihuahua

Hound · Medium vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Basset Hound is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 6 lbs for the Chihuahua.
  • The Chihuahua typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Chihuahua has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chihuahua sheds less.
  • The Chihuahua is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasset HoundChihuahua
Group
HoundToy
Size
MediumToy
Origin
FranceMexico
Height (male)
14–15"5–8"
Height (female)
14–15"5–8"
Weight (male)
40–65 lbs6 lbs
Weight (female)
40–65 lbs6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years14–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortshort
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 Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality. Originally from Mexico, this toy toy breed typically weighs 6 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, charming, sassy.

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Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity

Chihuahua health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues