Basset Hound vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Hound · Medium vs Herding · Medium
Basset HoundMedium
A charming, patient, low-key scenthound on stubby legs — Hush Puppies mascot, second-best nose to bloodhound.
Weight: 40–65 lbsLifespan: 12–13 years
Icelandic SheepdogMedium
A friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings.
Weight: 25–30 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Basset Hound is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Basset Hound | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Herding |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | France | Iceland |
Height (male) | 14–15" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 14–15" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 40–65 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 40–65 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–13 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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 Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings. Originally from Iceland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, hardy, cheerful.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Basset Hound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bloat
- • Ear infections
- • Glaucoma
- • IVDD
- • Obesity
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders