Basenji vs English Mastiff
Hound · Small vs Working · Giant
BasenjiSmall
An independent, smart, poised African 'barkless dog' — yodel-vocal, cat-like in cleanliness, ancient lineage.
Weight: 24 lbsLifespan: 13–14 years
English MastiffGiant
A courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — the heaviest dog breed, ancient British war hounds.
Weight: 160–230 lbsLifespan: 6–10 years
Quick take
- • English Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
- • The Basenji typically lives longer (13–14 years).
- • The Basenji has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Basenji sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Basenji | English Mastiff |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Working |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | Congo | England |
Height (male) | 17" | 30" |
Height (female) | 16" | 27.5" |
Weight (male) | 24 lbs | 160–230 lbs |
Weight (female) | 22 lbs | 120–170 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–14 years | 6–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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 English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — the heaviest dog breed, ancient British war hounds. Originally from England, this giant working breed typically weighs 160–230 lbs and lives 6–10 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, good-natured.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Basenji health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Fanconi syndrome
- • Hypothyroidism
- • PRA
English Mastiff health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer