Basset HoundVSChow Chow

The Basset Hound is known for being patient, charming, low-key, while the Chow Chow is typically described as dignified, aloof, loyal. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

When it comes to playfulness, the Basset Hound has the edge with a 3/5 rating compared to the Chow Chow's 2/5. If you're looking for a dog that's always ready for a game of fetch, the Basset Hound is your pick.

Noise-wise, the Basset Hound is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the Chow Chow is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Chow Chow 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 Chow Chow is a medium breed at 43–51 cm (17–20 in) and 20–32 kg (44–71 lbs).

These two breeds are quite similar in size, so space and food requirements will be comparable for either choice.

The Basset Hound has a short coat available in tricolor, lemon and white, red and white, while the Chow Chow sports a long coat in red, black, blue, cinnamon, cream. 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 Chow Chow has low energy (2/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

Both breeds have similar exercise requirements, so your daily activity routine won't change much regardless of which you choose. Plan for regular walks and play sessions to keep either breed content.

The Chow Chow sheds more than the Basset Hound — 4/5 versus 3/5. You'll want to invest in a good lint roller and vacuum if you go with the Chow Chow.

Grooming-wise, the Chow Chow needs more upkeep (4/5) than the Basset Hound (2/5). The Chow Chow's long coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Basset Hound and $250 for the Chow Chow. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Basset Hound has a lifespan of 10–12 years, while the Chow Chow lives 8–12 years. The Basset Hound tends to live longer on average.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Basset Hound scores 3/5 compared to the Chow Chow's 2/5. The Basset Hound is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Basset Hound include ear infections, obesity, bloat, intervertebral disc disease. The Chow Chow is prone to hip dysplasia, entropion, hypothyroidism, bloat. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Basset Hound and $700 for the Chow Chow. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Both breeds are equally trainable at 2/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.

Both breeds match in intelligence at 3/5, so expect similar learning speeds and mental stimulation needs from either choice.

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 the Basset Hound and Chow Chow score 3/5 for intelligence, putting them on equal footing mentally. They'll learn commands at similar speeds and need comparable amounts of mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.

These breeds excel in different types of intelligence. The Basset Hound leans toward adaptive intelligence — reading human emotions, adapting to new environments, and solving unfamiliar problems. The Chow Chow, on the other hand, shows strong instinctive intelligence — excelling at breed-specific tasks through natural instinct rather than learned behavior.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

For families with children, the Basset Hound is the stronger choice, scoring 5/5 for kid-friendliness compared to the Chow Chow's 2/5. The Basset Hound's patient nature makes it a natural fit for households with young ones.

If you have other pets, the Basset Hound tends to get along better with other dogs (5/5) than the Chow Chow (2/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Basset Hound is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Basset Hound is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Chow Chow tends to be more reserved (1/5). If you frequently have guests, the Basset Hound's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Basset Hound ranges from $500–$1,500, while a Chow Chow typically costs $1,500–$4,000. The Chow Chow is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,200 for the Basset Hound and $1,610 for the Chow Chow. The Chow Chow costs more annually, largely because of higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $50 for the Basset Hound and $55 for the Chow Chow. 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.