Afghan Hound vs Basenji

Hound · Large vs Hound · Small

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Basenji is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundBasenji
Group
HoundHound
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
AfghanistanCongo
Height (male)
27"17"
Height (female)
25"16"
Weight (male)
60 lbs24 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs22 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years13–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Basenji

The Basenji is an independent, smart, poised African 'barkless dog' — yodel-vocal, cat-like in cleanliness, ancient lineage. Originally from Congo, this small hound breed typically weighs 24 lbs and lives 13–14 years. Breeders describe them as independent, smart, poised.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Basenji health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Fanconi syndrome
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA