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Basset Hound vs Brittany

Side-by-side comparison for prospective owners weighing both breeds.

TraitBasset HoundBrittany
Weight4065 lbs3040 lbs
Lifespan1213 yrs1214 yrs
Est. monthly cost$80–$140$80–$140
Energy level
Grooming needs
Shedding
Trainability
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Vocalization

Where Basset Hound and Brittany differ most

  • Energy level: Basset Hound 2/5 · Brittany 5/5Brittany much higher-energy
  • Daily exercise: Basset Hound ~30 min · Brittany ~90 minBrittany much needs more
  • Adult weight: Basset Hound 40–65 lbs · Brittany 30–40 lbsBasset Hound heavier
  • Trainability: Basset Hound 2/5 · Brittany 4/5Brittany easier to train
  • Good with kids: Basset Hound 5/5 · Brittany 4/5Basset Hound rated higher
  • Good with other pets: Basset Hound 4/5 · Brittany 3/5Basset Hound rated higher

Full trait-by-trait breakdown

TraitBasset HoundBrittanyVerdict
Adult weight40–65 lbs30–40 lbsBasset Hound heavier
Energy level2/55/5Brittany much higher-energy
Daily exercise~30 min~90 minBrittany much needs more
Grooming needs2/52/5About the same
Shedding3/53/5About the same
Trainability2/54/5Brittany easier to train
Good with kids5/54/5Basset Hound rated higher
Good with other pets4/53/5Basset Hound rated higher
Vocalization4/52/5Basset Hound more vocal
Lifespan12–13 yrs12–14 yrsAbout the same
Est. monthly cost$80–140$80–140About the same

Which one should you choose?

Energy level decides this one almost entirely. The Brittany was bred to work the field all day alongside a hunter, needing serious daily exercise to stay well-behaved indoors, while the Basset Hound is content with a fraction of that activity, tracing scent trails at its own unhurried pace.

Trainability also splits the pair — the Brittany is quick to engage with structured field work or basic obedience, while the Basset's independent, scent-driven mind makes it a slower, more stubborn study regardless of motivation. Coat care is lighter for both compared to heavier-shedding breeds, though the Basset's droopy ears need more frequent cleaning to prevent infection.

Choose the Brittany if you want a lively, engaged companion for hiking or field sports. Choose the Basset if you'd rather share a slow evening walk followed by a long stretch on the couch.

Whichever breed fits your life, consider adoption or breed-specific rescue first — many purebred and mixed-breed dogs and cats are already waiting for homes.

General breed information, not veterinary advice — consult a vet for your pet's specific health, diet, and behavior needs.