Breed comparison
Basset Hound vs Beagle
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
3Affection with family3
5Good with young children5
5Good with other dogs5
3Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness4
2Energy level4
3Trainability3
3Mental stimulation needs4
3Adaptability4
3Watchdog / protective2
4Barking4
2Shedding3
3Coat grooming2
4Drooling1
The biggest differences
- Energy level: the Beagle scores 4 out of 5, the Basset Hound 2.
- Drooling: the Basset Hound scores 4 out of 5, the Beagle 1.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, trainability, barking.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Basset Hound if you prefer a calmer dog, you want less dog hair, you want a more protective watchdog. Pick the Beagle if you want an energetic exercise partner, you live in a smaller home or move often.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.