Basset HoundVSGlen of Imaal Terrier

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

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 3/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

Noise-wise, the Basset Hound is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the Glen of Imaal Terrier is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Glen of Imaal 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 Glen of Imaal Terrier is a medium breed at 30–36 cm (12–14 in) and 14–18 kg (31–40 lbs).

The Basset Hound is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Basset Hound has a short coat available in tricolor, lemon and white, red and white, while the Glen of Imaal Terrier sports a wiry coat in wheaten, blue brindle, blue. 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 Glen of Imaal Terrier has moderate energy (3/5) and moderate exercise needs (3/5).

You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the Glen of Imaal 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 Glen of Imaal Terrier is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 4/5, 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 Glen of Imaal Terrier is lighter at 2/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Glen of Imaal Terrier will be easier to live with.

Grooming-wise, the Glen of Imaal Terrier needs more upkeep (3/5) than the Basset Hound (2/5). The Glen of Imaal Terrier's wiry coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Basset Hound and $200 for the Glen of Imaal Terrier. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

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

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is generally the healthier breed, scoring 4/5 for health robustness versus the Basset Hound's 3/5. This often translates to fewer vet visits and lower medical costs.

Common health issues for the Basset Hound include ear infections, obesity, bloat, intervertebral disc disease. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is prone to progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cone-rod dystrophy. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

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

Training comes more naturally with the Glen of Imaal Terrier, which scores 3/5 for trainability. The Basset Hound's score of 2/5 means you may need more patience and consistency to see results.

The Glen of Imaal 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.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is the more intelligent of the two, scoring 4/5 to the Basset Hound's 3/5. This means the Glen of Imaal Terrier generally picks up new commands faster and is better at figuring things out independently. On the flip side, their sharp mind needs regular engagement through puzzle toys, training games, and varied activities to prevent behavioral issues.

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 Glen of Imaal Terrier, on the other hand, shows strong instinctive intelligence — excelling at breed-specific tasks through natural instinct rather than learned behavior.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier's higher intelligence translates directly into better trainability (3/5 vs 2/5), making them both the quicker learner and the easier breed to train. This combination is ideal for owners who want a responsive, obedient companion.

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 Glen of Imaal Terrier's 4/5. 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 Glen of Imaal Terrier (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 Glen of Imaal Terrier tends to be more reserved (3/5). 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 Glen of Imaal Terrier typically costs $1,500–$2,500. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,200 for the Basset Hound and $1,180 for the Glen of Imaal 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 $40 for the Glen of Imaal 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.