Basset Hound vs Leonberger

Hound · Medium vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Leonberger is the larger breed at 110–170 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Basset Hound.
  • The Basset Hound typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Leonberger has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Basset Hound sheds less.
  • The Leonberger is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasset HoundLeonberger
Group
HoundWorking
Size
MediumGiant
Origin
FranceGermany
Height (male)
14–15"28–31.5"
Height (female)
14–15"25.5–29.5"
Weight (male)
40–65 lbs110–170 lbs
Weight (female)
40–65 lbs90–140 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)High (4/5)
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)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)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 Leonberger

The Leonberger is a friendly, gentle, playful giant — bred to resemble a lion, with a famous black-masked golden mane. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–170 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, gentle, playful.

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Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity

Leonberger health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bone cancer
  • Bloat
  • Polyneuropathy