Basenji vs Bedlington Terrier

Hound · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Basenji is the larger breed at 24 lbs (males) vs 17–23 lbs for the Bedlington Terrier.
  • The Bedlington Terrier sheds less.
  • The Bedlington Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasenjiBedlington Terrier
Group
HoundTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
CongoEngland
Height (male)
17"16–17.5"
Height (female)
16"15–16.5"
Weight (male)
24 lbs17–23 lbs
Weight (female)
22 lbs17–23 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–14 years11–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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.

About the Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a spirited, demonstrative, mild lamb-shaped terrier — looks like a sheep, fights like a tiger. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–23 lbs and lives 11–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, demonstrative, mild.

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Basenji health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Fanconi syndrome
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA

Bedlington Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Copper toxicosis
  • Eye disorders
  • Patellar luxation