How big does a Basset Hound get?

A full-grown Basset Hound typically stands 28–38 cm (11.0–15.0 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighs 18–30 kg (39.7–66.1 lbs). Basset Hound is a medium breed and usually reaches full size by 12 months.

What is the lifespan of a Basset Hound?

The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is 12–13 years. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care can help your dog live a longer, healthier life. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors in extending your dog's lifespan — overweight dogs can lose 1–2 years of life expectancy.

What are the personality traits of a Basset Hound?

Basset Hound are known for being patient, low-key, stubborn, friendly. They are generally good with children and make excellent family dogs. They can be challenging to train and benefit from experienced handlers. They need plenty of space and exercise, making them better suited for homes with yards.

Is a Basset Hound a good choice for apartments and families?

A Basset Hound is a medium breed that typically needs more space and exercise, so they may not be ideal for small apartments. They are generally good with kids and make great family companions. They shed moderately, with weekly brushing usually sufficient.

What are common health issues for medium breed dogs like the Basset Hound?

Medium breeds like the Basset Hound may be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, allergies, and certain eye conditions. Regular vet checkups help catch issues early. Keeping your dog at an ideal weight is the single most effective way to reduce the risk of many of these conditions. Use our BCS assessment tool above to check your dog's condition.

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Basset Hound Weight & Calorie Guide

Q: How many calories does a Basset Hound need per day?

A typical adult Basset Hound weighing about 24 kg needs approximately 1214–1518 kcal per day, depending on activity level and neuter status. Puppies and very active dogs need more, while seniors and neutered dogs need less. Use our breed-specific calculator for an exact number.

Medium Breed

Quick Answer

A healthy adult Basset Hound weighs 18–30 kg (39.7–66.1 lbs), according to the AKC breed standard. Puppies reach 50% of adult weight by 5–6 months and full weight by 12–14 months.

Source: AKC breed standard, WSAVA nutrition guidelines

Quick Facts

Ideal Weight

18–30 kg

(39.7–66.1 lbs)

Size Category

medium

Breed Type

Daily Calories

~1214–1518 kcal

Adult, neutered

Free Tools

BCS Assessment Calorie Calculator

Ideal Weight Range

18 kgto30 kg

39.7 lbsto66.1 lbs

UnderweightIdealOverweightObese

Data:AKC breed standard·WSAVA guidelines

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Puppy Weight Predictor

For puppies under 12 months. Enter your puppy's current weight and age to predict adult weight.

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How the puppy weight predictor works

This predictor uses growth milestone data from Salt et al. (2017), published in Veterinary Record, which tracked the weight development of dogs across five size categories from birth to adulthood. By comparing your puppy's current weight against the expected growth percentage for their age and size category, we estimate their adult weight range.

Factors that affect adult weight

Genetics play the largest role, but nutrition, neutering status, and overall health also influence growth rate. Puppies fed excessive calories during rapid growth phases may exceed their genetic weight potential, while underfed puppies may not reach it. Large and giant breeds grow more slowly than toy and small breeds, reaching full size at 18–24 months rather than 10–12 months.

Data source: Salt et al. (2017) "Growth patterns of commercial kennel dogs" Veterinary Record • AKC breed standards

Basset Hound Health & Weight Management

Basset Hounds are among the most obesity-prone breeds. Their long backs and short legs make them extremely vulnerable to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) — and every extra pound increases spinal compression risk exponentially. Their legendary nose-driven appetite means they will eat virtually anything offered, including garbage. Hip and elbow dysplasia are also common; excess weight accelerates joint degeneration.

Exercise: 30–40 minutes of moderate daily walks. Bassets are scent-driven, so let them "sniff-walk" at their own pace — the mental stimulation burns energy too. Avoid jumping and stair-climbing to protect the spine. Swimming is excellent low-impact exercise if your Basset tolerates water.

Feeding tips: Bassets are professional beggars and accomplished food thieves. Secure all food surfaces. Measure every meal with a kitchen scale — a "generous scoop" can add 20–30% excess calories. Use puzzle feeders to slow eating. Replace treats with carrot sticks and green beans.

Keeping your Basset Hound at a healthy 40–66 lbs (18–30 kg) is critical for spine and joint protection. Use PawScale’s calorie calculator for Basset Hounds to set exact daily limits, monitor body condition with our BCS tool, and follow the crate size calculator.

Data source: AKC breed standard

Data source: AKC breed standard • Last updated: 2026-08-12

Is your Basset Hound at a healthy weight?

59% of dogs are overweight — can you tell? Take our free 2-minute Body Condition Score assessment.

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Basset Hound Calorie Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much should a Basset Hound weigh?

The ideal weight for a Basset Hound is 18–30 kg (39.7–66.1 lbs). Weight can vary based on gender, age, and individual build. Use our calorie calculator above to get personalized feeding recommendations.

How many calories does a Basset Hound need per day?

A typical adult Basset Hound weighing 24 kg needs approximately 1214–1518 kcal per day, depending on activity level and whether they are neutered. Use our breed-specific calculator above for an exact number based on your dog's details.

Is my Basset Hound overweight?

59% of dogs are overweight, and most owners cannot tell just by looking. Check your Basset Hound's Body Condition Score (BCS) — if you can't easily feel their ribs or they have no visible waist from above, they may be overweight. Take our free 2-minute BCS assessment above to find out.

When does a Basset Hound reach full adult weight?

Basset Hound puppies reach 50% of their adult weight by 5–6 months and typically reach full adult weight by 12–14 months, according to AKC growth guidelines. Small breeds mature faster than large breeds.

What size crate does a Basset Hound need?

A Basset Hound typically needs a 36-inch crate based on breed size. Use PawScale's free crate size calculator for a personalized recommendation.

References & data sources

1. AKC Official Breed Standard — Basset Hound. akc.org

2. Salt C, et al. “Estimating the expected growth of dogs.” Vet Record, 2017;180(15):376.

3. National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, 2006.

4. Laflamme DP. “Development and validation of a body condition score system for dogs.” Canine Practice, 1997;22(4):10–15.

5. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines; Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) 9-point BCS scale.

Last reviewed: September 2026

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