Basset Hound vs Shiba Inu

Hound · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Basset Hound is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 23 lbs for the Shiba Inu.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Shiba Inu has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasset HoundShiba Inu
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
FranceJapan
Height (male)
14–15"14.5–16.5"
Height (female)
14–15"13.5–15.5"
Weight (male)
40–65 lbs23 lbs
Weight (female)
40–65 lbs17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years13–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
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 Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an alert, active, attentive small Spitz — Japan's most popular national dog and the original 'doge' meme. Originally from Japan, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 23 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, active, attentive.

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Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity

Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies