Basset Hound vs German Shorthaired Pointer
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Basset Hound
Also known as: Basset, Hush Puppy Dog
The Basset Hound is a charming dog breed known for its long ears, droopy eyes, and distinctive short-legged, long-bodied appearance. With a gentle demeanor and a keen sense of smell, they make excellent companions and are often used as scent hounds in hunting. However, their stubborn nature and specific health needs make them best suited for experienced owners.
Large
Medium
10-12 yrs
33-38 cm
23-30 kg
German Shorthaired Pointer
Also known as: GSP, German Pointer, Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is a versatile hunting dog that excels at pointing, retrieving on land and water, and tracking wounded game. Originally developed in 19th-century Germany, this athletic breed combines the traits of Spanish Pointers, Bloodhounds, and English Pointers into the ultimate 'all-purpose' sporting dog.
Large
High
12-14 yrs
53-64 cm
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Energy Level | Medium | High |
| Grooming | High | Low |
| Trainability | challenging | Easy |
| Barking Level | High | Medium |
| Shedding Level | High | Medium |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Hard |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Advanced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Patient owner with a sense of humor who works from home or can provide companionship. Has a securely fenced yard. Tolerant of mess and 'hound odor.' Prepared for higher-than-average vet bills. | Active outdoor enthusiast, hunter, or ultra-runner with time for 90+ min daily exercise and no small pets |
Basset Hound Dealbreakers
- Cannot tolerate drool, shedding, and hound smell
- Live in apartments or have close neighbors
- Want a running or hiking partner
- Expect quick obedience or easy training
- Not prepared for chronic ear and eye care
German Shorthaired Pointer Dealbreakers
- Sedentary lifestyle - if you prefer Netflix to nature trails, this dog will destroy your home
- Long work hours - cannot be left alone 9-5 without a dog walker or daycare
- Cat household - high risk of fatal prey drive incidents
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Neighbors complaining about howling/baying, Owners giving up on potty training after months of accidents, Unexpected veterinary costs for ears, eyes, and back problems, Expecting a Golden Retriever personality in a stubborn hound | 'He's too hyper' - owner underestimated exercise needs, 'He keeps escaping' - boredom led to Houdini acts, 'He killed the cat' - prey drive mismanagement |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | Medium |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | High |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Moderate | Low |
Basset Hound Social Traits
None
Generally dog-friendly; thrives with other dogs to reduce loneliness
German Shorthaired Pointer Social Traits
Low
Generally good with other dogs, some same-sex aggression (male-male) may emerge at 18-24 months
Training
Basset Hound
- Food is king - always have high-value treats ready
- Keep sessions short (5-10 min) to prevent boredom
- Never use harsh methods - they shut down completely
- Accept that perfect obedience is not in their DNA
German Shorthaired Pointer
- Keep sessions short, fun, and varied - drill-style training bores them
- They are cooperative but were bred to work independently at distance
- Use their high food motivation to your advantage
Basset Hound Considerations
Bassets were bred to track scent trails independently for miles. They have selective hearing and will ignore commands if they don't see value in them. Food motivation is essential for any training success.
As pack animals, Bassets have a profound need for companionship. Left alone, they produce a loud, mournful bay that penetrates walls and travels long distances - a serious liability in apartments or close-neighbor situations.
Notoriously difficult to housebreak - their independent nature and physical structure make this a multi-month (6-12 months) battle. Accidents may persist into adulthood.
When they catch a scent, their ears literally fold forward to block sound, focusing entirely on the smell. Recall is non-existent - they will wander into traffic without a secure fence.
German Shorthaired Pointer Considerations
This is not a casual pet - it's a high-octane performance machine. Without 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise EVERY DAY, GSPs develop severe behavioral issues: neurotic pacing, destructive chewing through drywall and furniture, and excessive vocalization.
They are extreme 'Velcro dogs' that bond intensely to their handlers. Leaving a GSP alone 8-10 hours while you work often leads to crate destruction and self-injury. They cannot be left alone all day.
Their prey drive is intense and often uncontrollable around small animals. Many GSPs will readily chase and kill cats, rabbits, and squirrels regardless of training. Coexistence with cats is never guaranteed.
They are tall and highly food-motivated. Your counters become their buffet. Nothing is safe at table height.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Caution - prey drive can trigger tracking behavior that stresses cats | HIGH RISK - predatory sequence is often 'Full' for furred animals. May stalk, chase, and kill. Requires puppy socialization and constant supervision. Never guaranteed safe. |
| Small Mammals | Unsafe - rabbits are historical prey; hamsters/guinea pigs trigger tracking instincts | UNSAFE - they are hunting dogs. Rabbits and small pets are prey. |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - scent of small animals causes obsessive whining and scratching at cages | UNSAFE - they are literally bird dogs. Never safe with poultry or birds. |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Full (but slow) | Full |
| Biddability | Low | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
Basset Hound: Predatory sequence is present (orient-eye-stalk-chase-grab) but slow. They are hunting dogs, not companions in mindset. High adaptive intelligence (food problem-solving) but low working intelligence (obeying commands).
German Shorthaired Pointer: Predatory sequence is Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Grab -> Kill. While 'Kill' bite is inhibited for birds (soft mouth), it is often active for ground game (rabbits/cats). They want to work WITH you but are easily distracted by scents.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 4-18 | 6-24 |
| House Training | Hard | Easy |
| Crate Training | Medium | Medium - difficult due to intense desire to be with people |
| Adolescent Regression |
Basset Hound: Unlike eager-to-please breeds, Basset puppies are heavy, stubborn, and extremely difficult to housebreak. The 'flat Basset' maneuver (lying down and refusing to move) is common. Patience is essential.
German Shorthaired Pointer: GSP puppies are famously 'busy' - land sharks with endless energy. Adolescent regression around 8-12 months where they seemingly forget all training and test boundaries aggressively.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 18 months | 18 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-24 |
| Adult Years | 2-7 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~8 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-4 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 33-38 cm | 53-64 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Large |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years | 12–14 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 8-12 |
Basset Hound Coat
German Shorthaired Pointer Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Trailing rabbits and hare through dense cover for hunters on foot | All-purpose hunting dog - pointing, retrieving on land and water, tracking wounded game |
| Origin | France, 16th century (name from 'bas' meaning 'low') | Germany, 19th century (crossbred from Spanish Pointers, Bloodhounds, English Pointers) |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | High | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Hard | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Medium | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.2m | 1.8m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Medium |
Health & Common Conditions
Basset Hound Health Issues
German Shorthaired Pointer Health Issues
Basset Hound Suggested Tests
- Gonioscopy testing (for glaucoma)
- Thrombopathia DNA test
- Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) DNA test
- Annual Ophthalmologist Exam
- Hip Evaluation (OFA)
German Shorthaired Pointer Suggested Tests
- ECLE/Lupoid Dermatosis (DNA) - CRITICAL
- Cone Degeneration (DNA)
- Von Willebrand's Disease Type II (DNA)
- Cardiac Exam (Subaortic Stenosis)
- Ophthalmologist Exam (PRA)
- Hip Evaluation
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | High |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Medium |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | High |
| Vet Burden Tier | High | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Corn, Wheat, Soy |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Fast | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | High | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Common | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
Basset Hound Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis (often early onset)
- Mobility decline
- Cognitive decline with increased anxiety
- Vision loss from glaucoma
Many seniors need help standing up or navigating stairs. Ramps become essential. Arthritis management is critical. Cognitive decline can worsen separation anxiety and night howling.
German Shorthaired Pointer Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Cancer (Hemangiosarcoma, Lymphoma)
- Joint stiffness
Quality of life often remains good until a sudden decline. Cancer is a common cause of death.
Grooming & Care
Basset Hound
high maintenanceGerman Shorthaired Pointer
low maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Basset Hound Daily Life
German Shorthaired Pointer Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | High |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | None | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-2,500 | $800-3,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,000–$2,500 | $800–$3,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $150–$280 | $100–$170 |
| Yearly Range | $2,500–$3,500 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Food / Month | $50-80 | $60-90 |
| Insurance / Month | $70-140 | $40-80 |
| Grooming / Session | $50-100 | $30-50 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,500 | $300-500 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Basset Hound Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
German Shorthaired Pointer Lifetime Cost
$18,000-35,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Basset Hound | German Shorthaired Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Rare |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Rare | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Medium |
Basset Hound Quirks
The Hound Smell
A distinct musky, yeasty odor from coat oils (sebum) that returns days after bathing and transfers to furniture
The Bay
A loud, mournful howl (not a bark) that carries for long distances and penetrates walls
The Flat Basset
When bored with training, they simply lay down and refuse to move - this is passive resistance, not obedience failure
Scent Deafness
Their ears literally fold forward when tracking to block sound, making them completely unresponsive to recall
German Shorthaired Pointer Quirks
The Pointer Whine
They are vocal whiners when they want attention or are excited - a distinct, persistent vocalization
The Velcro Factor
They will follow you into the bathroom. They need to be touching you on the couch. If you want personal space, do not get a GSP.
Counter Surfing Pro
They are tall and food-motivated. Your counters are their buffet - nothing at table height is safe.
Eyelash Shedding
They shed short, stiff hairs that weave into fabrics and are nearly impossible to remove. Year-round shedding with seasonal peaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
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