Basset HoundVSBoston Terrier

The Basset Hound is known for being patient, charming, low-key, while the Boston Terrier is typically described as friendly, lively, intelligent. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

The Boston Terrier tends to be more playful, scoring 4/5 versus the Basset Hound's 3/5. Expect the Boston Terrier to be more eager for playtime and interactive games.

Noise-wise, the Basset Hound is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the Boston Terrier is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Boston Terrier may be the better choice.

The Basset Hound is a medium breed standing 28–38 cm (11–15 in) tall and weighing 20–29 kg (44–64 lbs). In comparison, the Boston Terrier is a small breed at 38–43 cm (15–17 in) and 5–11 kg (11–24 lbs).

There's a significant size difference between these two breeds. The Basset Hound is considerably heavier, which means higher food costs and the need for more physical space. The Boston Terrier's smaller frame makes it easier to handle and transport.

The Basset Hound has a short coat available in tricolor, lemon and white, red and white, while the Boston Terrier sports a short coat in black and white, brindle and white, seal and white. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Basset Hound has low energy (2/5) with low exercise needs (2/5). The Boston Terrier has moderate energy (3/5) and moderate exercise needs (3/5).

You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the Boston Terrier, which thrives on vigorous daily activity. The Basset Hound is less demanding in this regard and settles more easily into a relaxed routine.

For apartment dwellers, the Boston Terrier is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 5/5, compared to the Basset Hound's 3/5. The Basset Hound generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

When it comes to shedding, the Basset Hound drops more fur with a shedding level of 3/5, while the Boston Terrier is lighter at 2/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Boston Terrier will be easier to live with.

The Basset Hound demands more grooming attention with a score of 2/5, while the Boston Terrier is lower-maintenance at 1/5. The Basset Hound's short coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming sessions, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Basset Hound and $100 for the Boston Terrier. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Basset Hound has a lifespan of 10–12 years, while the Boston Terrier lives 11–15 years. The Boston Terrier generally has a longer lifespan.

Both breeds score 3/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.

Common health issues for the Basset Hound include ear infections, obesity, bloat, intervertebral disc disease. The Boston Terrier is prone to brachycephalic syndrome, patellar luxation, cataracts, deafness. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Basset Hound and $500 for the Boston Terrier. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Training comes more naturally with the Boston Terrier, which scores 4/5 for trainability. The Basset Hound's score of 2/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

The Boston Terrier ranks higher in intelligence (4/5 vs 3/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

Both breeds score 5/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.

If you have other pets, the Basset Hound tends to get along better with other dogs (5/5) than the Boston Terrier (4/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Basset Hound is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Boston Terrier is more welcoming to strangers (5/5), while the Basset Hound tends to be more reserved (4/5). If you frequently have guests, the Boston Terrier's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Basset Hound ranges from $500–$1,500, while a Boston Terrier typically costs $600–$2,000. The Boston Terrier is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,200 for the Basset Hound and $1,020 for the Boston Terrier. The Basset Hound is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $50 for the Basset Hound and $35 for the Boston Terrier. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.