Basset Hound vs Portuguese Water Dog
Hound · Medium vs Working · 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
Portuguese Water DogMedium
An affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets.
Weight: 42–60 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Basset Hound is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 42–60 lbs for the Portuguese Water Dog.
- • The Basset Hound typically lives longer (12–13 years).
- • The Portuguese Water Dog has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Basset Hound | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Working |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | France | Portugal |
Height (male) | 14–15" | 20–23" |
Height (female) | 14–15" | 17–21" |
Weight (male) | 40–65 lbs | 42–60 lbs |
Weight (female) | 40–65 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–13 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | 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 | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.
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Basset Hound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bloat
- • Ear infections
- • Glaucoma
- • IVDD
- • Obesity
Portuguese Water Dog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Storage diseases