Basset Hound vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Hound · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Basset Hound.
  • The Basset Hound typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds less.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasset HoundRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
HoundHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
FranceZimbabwe
Height (male)
14–15"25–27"
Height (female)
14–15"24–26"
Weight (male)
40–65 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
40–65 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years10–12 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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an affectionate, dignified, even-tempered African lion-hunter with a backward ridge of fur down its spine. Originally from Zimbabwe, this large hound breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, dignified, even-tempered.

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Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat