Basset Hound vs Kerry Blue Terrier

Hound · Medium vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Basset Hound is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 33–40 lbs for the Kerry Blue Terrier.
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier sheds less.
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasset HoundKerry Blue Terrier
Group
HoundTerrier
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
FranceIreland
Height (male)
14–15"18–19.5"
Height (female)
14–15"17.5–19"
Weight (male)
40–65 lbs33–40 lbs
Weight (female)
40–65 lbs33–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years12–15 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)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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 Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a smart, alert, people-oriented Irish farmer's all-purpose dog with a famous slate-blue coat. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 33–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, people-oriented.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity

Kerry Blue Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy