Basset Hound Weight & Growth Chart
Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Basset Hounds from puppy to adult.
Basset Hound Weight Overview
The Basset Hound weighs 40–65 lbs at maturity. Males (40–65 lbs) are typically heavier than females (34–57 lbs).
Weighs 40 to 65 pounds despite standing only 14 inches tall; they are a heavy-boned breed and should feel solid, not fat.. The growth chart below shows the typical weight progression from puppyhood to adulthood.
Basset Hound Growth Chart
When Does a Basset Hound Stop Growing?
The Basset Hound stops growing in height (target: 14–15 inches) around 12–15 months of age, but may continue adding weight toward 65 lbs for a few more months. Weighs 40 to 65 pounds despite standing only 14 inches tall; they are a heavy-boned breed and should feel solid, not fat..
Early spay/neuter can affect growth plate closure, potentially resulting in a slightly taller but leaner adult.
Basset Hound Male vs Female Size Differences
Male and female Basset Hounds differ noticeably in size, a pattern common in medium breeds. Males typically weigh 40–65 lbs, while females weigh 34–57 lbs. Both sexes stand 14–15 inches tall at the shoulder, though males tend to fall at the upper end of this range.
These size differences can influence practical ownership decisions. Larger males require more food, larger crate sizes, and stronger leash handling. Female Basset Hounds at the lower weight range may be easier to manage physically for smaller handlers or families with children. Both sexes share the same temperament and health profile, so size preference should be a practical decision rather than a temperament-based one.
Is My Basset Hound Overweight?
To determine if your Basset Hound is at a healthy weight (40–65 lbs target):
- Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them
- Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs
- Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage
Their coat type allows for relatively easy visual assessment. If your Basset Hound is overweight, work with your veterinarian to develop a safe weight loss plan. Even a 10% reduction can reduce the risk of Obesity and other conditions.
Basset Hound Weight Management Tips
Maintaining your Basset Hound at a healthy weight between 40 and 65 lbs is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health. Studies consistently show that lean dogs live an average of 1.8–2.5 years longer than overweight dogs of the same breed.
Portion control: Use a measuring cup for every meal rather than estimating. Feed the amount recommended for your Basset Hound's ideal weight, not their current weight if they are overweight. Divide daily food into two meals for adults and three meals for puppies under six months.
Treat management: Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. Use small, low-calorie training treats and consider using pieces of your dog's regular kibble as rewards during training sessions. Avoid table scraps entirely, as they add unpredictable calories and can introduce foods that are toxic to dogs.
Exercise alignment: With an exercise needs rating of 2/5, the Basset Hound requires lighter exercise. Even with lower activity needs, daily movement is important for maintaining muscle tone and healthy weight. Short walks and play sessions help prevent the gradual weight creep that affects less active breeds.
Regular weigh-ins: Weigh your Basset Hound monthly and track the trend. Gradual weight gain of even one to two pounds per month can lead to significant obesity over time. Your veterinarian can establish your dog's ideal weight during wellness visits and recommend caloric adjustments as needed.
Feeding Recommendation
Adult Basset Hounds (40–65 lbs) typically need 0.6 to 1.3 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. A formula suited to medium breeds provides appropriate nutrient density. A moderate daily walk of 30 to 60 minutes is sufficient; they should not be over-exercised as puppies due to their heavy bone structure.—adjust portions based on activity level. Budget $62–95/month for food costs.
Basset Hound Weight by Age Table
The following table shows expected weight ranges for male and female Basset Hounds at key developmental milestones. Individual dogs may fall slightly outside these ranges depending on genetics, nutrition, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian if your Basset Hound's weight deviates significantly from these benchmarks.
| Age | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 14.6–17.9 | 12.4–15.2 |
| 6 months | 32.2–39.3 | 27.3–33.5 |
| 9 months | 46.8–57.2 | 39.7–48.7 |
| 12 months | 58.5–71.4 | 49.7–60.8 |
Health Risks of Incorrect Weight in Basset Hounds
Both underweight and overweight conditions pose serious health risks for the Basset Hound. Understanding these risks reinforces the importance of maintaining your dog within the 40–65 lb target range.
Overweight risks: Excess weight places additional strain on joints, increasing the risk and severity of conditions like Obesity. Overweight Basset Hounds also face higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, respiratory compromise, heat intolerance, and reduced lifespan. Even moderate excess weight, just 10–15% above ideal, shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life.
Underweight risks: A Basset Hound consistently below 40 lbs may be experiencing inadequate nutrition, parasitic infection, dental problems that prevent eating, or underlying illness. Underweight dogs have weakened immune systems, poor coat quality, reduced energy, and slower healing. If your Basset Hound appears thin despite normal feeding, veterinary examination is essential to rule out medical causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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