Bloodhound vs Poodle
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
Bloodhound
The world's greatest tracking dog with a nose that can follow a scent trail for miles. Bloodhounds are gentle, patient, and deeply affectionate but incredibly stubborn when on a trail.
VS
Poodle
One of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle combines elegance with athleticism. Their hypoallergenic curly coat and keen mind make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want a trainable companion.
Quick Answer
Choose Bloodhound if you want a great companion. Choose Poodle if you want easier to train and more apartment-friendly.
Quick Comparison
Bloodhound
Attribute
Poodle
large
Size
medium
36–50 kg (79–110 lbs)
Weight
18–32 kg (40–71 lbs)
58–69 cm (23–27 in)
Height
38–61 cm (15–24 in)
10–12 yrs
Lifespan
12–15 yrsBetter
2/5
Trainability
5/5Better
3/5
Energy
4/5
4/5
Good with Kids
4/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5Better
Better2/5
Grooming
5/5
1/5
Apartment
3/5Better
2/5
Health
4/5Better
Better$700–$2,000
Price
$1,000–$3,000
Attribute Comparison
Health Profile: Bloodhound and Poodle Compared
Poodle tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bloodhound
Poodle
Lifespan (years)
10–12
vs12–15Better
Health Robustness
2/5
vs4/5Better
The lifespan difference is significant. Poodles live 12–15 years on average, while Bloodhounds live 10–12 years.
Grooming Differences: Bloodhound and Poodle
Bloodhound sheds more; Poodle is easier to maintain.
Bloodhound
Poodle
Shedding
3/5
vs1/5Better
Grooming Needs
Better2/5
vs5/5
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Bloodhound is a prolific shedder (3/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Which Is Easier to Train — Bloodhound or Poodle?
Training difficulty is a major difference. The Poodle (5/5) is eager to please and picks up commands quickly — one of the most trainable breeds out there.
Temperament: Bloodhound vs Poodle
Bloodhound is calmer; Poodle is more energetic.
Bloodhound
Poodle
Playfulness
3/5
vs5/5Better
Barking Level
4/5
vs3/5Better
Energy
3/5
vs4/5
The Bloodhound and Poodle bring very different personalities to the table. Bloodhounds are gentle, patient and noble, while Poodles tend to be intelligent, elegant and athletic.
Bloodhound and Poodle: Size and Appearance Compared
Bloodhound is the larger breed; Poodle is more compact.
Bloodhound
Poodle
Weight (kg)
36–50
vs18–32
Height (cm)
58–69
vs38–61
These two breeds look nothing alike. The Bloodhound is a large breed at 36–50 kg (79–110 lbs) and 58–69 cm (23–27 in), while the Poodle is a medium breed at just 18–32 kg (40–71 lbs) and 38–61 cm (15–24 in).
Exercise Needs: Bloodhound vs Poodle
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Bloodhound
Poodle
Energy Level
3/5
vs4/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
vs4/5
Apartment Friendly
1/5
vs3/5Better
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Bloodhound and Poodle need high daily activity (4/5). Both are athletic breeds that thrive with active owners.
Which Costs More to Own — Bloodhound or Poodle?
Bloodhound is less expensive to own annually.
Bloodhound
Avg. Purchase$1,350
Annual Food$840
Annual Vet$600
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,540 ✓
Poodle
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$600
Annual Total$1,650
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $700–$2,000 for a Bloodhound versus $1,000–$3,000 for a Poodle. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Family Fit: Bloodhound vs Poodle With Kids and Other Pets
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Bloodhound
Poodle
Good with Kids
4/5
vs4/5
Good with Dogs
4/5
vs4/5
Strangers
4/5
vs4/5
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
Summary: Bloodhound or Poodle?
On balance, the Poodle has the edge — it's easier to train (5/5 vs 2/5), more apartment-friendly (3/5), less shedding (1/5). For most families, the Poodle is the more practical choice, particularly if you value an easy-to-train companion.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bloodhound and Poodle are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Bloodhound sheds considerably more, Poodle is notably easier to train. Annual ownership costs are broadly similar for both breeds.
Choose Bloodhound if...
- ✓You have other dogs at home — Bloodhounds tend to get along well with other dogs (4/5).
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Choose Poodle if...
- ✓This is your first dog — Poodles are easier to train and more forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bloodhound or Poodle?
The Bloodhound scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Poodle at 4/5. The Bloodhound is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bloodhound or Poodle easier to train?
The Poodle is easier to train, scoring 5/5 versus the Bloodhound's 2/5. The Poodle's eagerness to please makes training sessions more productive.
Which costs more, a Bloodhound or Poodle?
A Bloodhound puppy costs $700–$2,000 while a Poodle costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,540 for the Bloodhound and $1,650 for the Poodle. The Poodle costs more to maintain annually.
Do Bloodhounds or Poodles live longer?
The Bloodhound lives 10–12 years on average, while the Poodle lives 12–15 years. The Poodle tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bloodhound or Poodle live in an apartment?
The Poodle adapts better to apartment living (3/5) than the Bloodhound (1/5). The Poodle ranks among our best apartment breeds.