American Water Spaniel vs Basenji
Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Small
American Water SpanielMedium
An eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts.
Weight: 30–45 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
BasenjiSmall
An independent, smart, poised African 'barkless dog' — yodel-vocal, cat-like in cleanliness, ancient lineage.
Weight: 24 lbsLifespan: 13–14 years
Quick take
- • American Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 30–45 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
- • The Basenji typically lives longer (13–14 years).
- • The American Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Basenji |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Hound |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | USA | Congo |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 17" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 16" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 24 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 22 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 13–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is an eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts. Originally from USA, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–45 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as eager, charming, energetic.
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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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Basenji health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Fanconi syndrome
- • Hypothyroidism
- • PRA