Basset Hound vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi
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
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Also known as: Corgi, PWC, Pembroke, Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a sturdy herding breed with distinctive short legs and a fox-like face. Don't let the cute loaf shape fool you - beneath the fluff lies a tough, bossy cattle herder with high energy and a powerful bark. Originally bred to move cattle by nipping at heels, Corgis retain strong herding instincts and require dedicated training to channel their intelligence and energy.
Medium
High
12-15 yrs
25-30 cm
10-14 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Energy Level | Medium | High |
| Grooming | High | Medium |
| Trainability | challenging | Moderate |
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Shedding Level | High | High |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Beginner (active and firm) |
| 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 owner who wants a big dog personality in a small package. Firm but fair trainer who won't let cuteness excuse bad behavior. Prepared for shedding, barking, and vet bills. |
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
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Dealbreakers
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Noise sensitivity (you or neighbors)
- Living in 3+ floor walk-up (bad for backs long-term)
- Cannot afford $3,000+ emergency fund for IVDD
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Nipping children - parents underestimate herding instinct, Neighbor complaints about barking, Inability to afford IVDD surgery ($3,000-8,000) |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | High | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Moderate | Moderate |
Basset Hound Social Traits
None
Generally dog-friendly; thrives with other dogs to reduce loneliness
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Social Traits
Moderate
Bossy with other dogs, same-sex aggression possible at maturity (12-24 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
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Keep sessions short and fun - they bore quickly
- Use their extreme food motivation to your advantage
- Address nipping immediately - redirect to toys, not hands
- Socialize extensively to prevent bossiness and reactivity
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.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Considerations
Bred to control cattle with barks and nips, Corgis will announce every delivery truck, passerby, and leaf. High-pitched, persistent barking can lead to neighbor complaints and eviction in apartments.
Genetically hardwired to control movement by nipping heels. In homes, this means chasing and nipping running children or other pets. Not aggressive, but frightening for toddlers.
Intelligent but independent thinkers who ask 'What's in it for me?' They can be manipulative and will run the household if owners are passive.
Velcro dogs that bond intensely. Left alone without training, they become destructive and vocal. Tolerate 4-6 hours max if exercised.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Caution - prey drive can trigger tracking behavior that stresses cats | Good with confident cats who stand their ground - may try to herd rather than harm |
| Small Mammals | Unsafe - rabbits are historical prey; hamsters/guinea pigs trigger tracking instincts | Moderate - high prey drive for moving objects, supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - scent of small animals causes obsessive whining and scratching at cages | Low/Moderate - curious and may harass |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Full (but slow) | Arrested at Nip |
| Biddability | Low | Medium |
| 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).
Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Predatory sequence: Eye → Stalk → Chase → Nip. The 'kill' bite is inhibited but the nip is prominent - this is why they nip heels. High intelligence but medium biddability - they learn fast but ask 'What's in it for me?'
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 4-18 | 6-12 |
| House Training | Hard | Moderate |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| 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.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Known as 'land sharks' - the nipping phase is intense and prolonged due to herding genetics. Will chase pant legs and nip ankles. Socialization critical to prevent bossiness and reactivity.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 18 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| 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 | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 33-38 cm | 25-30 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Medium |
| Lifespan | 10–12 years | 12–15 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 6-7 |
Basset Hound Coat
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Trailing rabbits and hare through dense cover for hunters on foot | Cattle herding (heeler) - ducking under kicks and nipping heels to drive herds |
| Origin | France, 16th century (name from 'bas' meaning 'low') | Pembrokeshire, Wales - bred as farm dogs for centuries |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | High | Low-Moderate |
| Whelping Difficulty | Hard | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Medium | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | High |
| Min Fence Height | 1.2m | 1.2m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Basset Hound Health Issues
Pembroke Welsh Corgi 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)
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Suggested Tests
- DM genetic test
- vWD genetic test
- EIC genetic test
- Hip evaluation
- Eye exam (CERF)
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Medium | High |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | High | Medium-High |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Food Allergies | Corn, Wheat, Soy | Chicken, Grains |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Hind-end weakness (DM or IVDD)
- Arthritis
- Spinal degeneration
- Obesity-related complications
Many senior Corgis need wheelchairs to maintain quality of life if DM or IVDD progresses. Ramps become essential. Keeping them lean their whole life is the best prevention.
Grooming & Care
Basset Hound
high maintenancePembroke Welsh Corgi
medium maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Basset Hound Daily Life
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | 25-50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Low | Moderate |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | None | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Medium |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-2,500 | $1,000-3,000 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,000–$2,500 | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $150–$280 | $100–$180 |
| Yearly Range | $2,500–$3,500 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Food / Month | $50-80 | $30-50 |
| Insurance / Month | $70-140 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $50-100 | $50-80 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $500-1,500 | $200-500 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Basset Hound Lifetime Cost
$25,000-40,000
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Lifetime Cost
$20,000-50,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Basset Hound | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Rare | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Low |
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
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Quirks
Splooting
Lying flat on belly with legs stretched out behind - signature Corgi pose
Frapping/Zoomies
Frenetic Random Activity Periods - tucking butts and running in circles at high speed
Fun Police
Will bark at and try to break up rough play between other pets or humans - herding instinct to control chaos
Corgi Glitter
Shed fur gets everywhere - you will eat hair, wear hair, and sleep in hair. Year-round shedding with two massive 'coat blows'
Frequently Asked Questions
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