Basenji vs English Springer Spaniel

Hound · Small vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • English Springer Spaniel is the larger breed at 50–55 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
  • The Basenji typically lives longer (13–14 years).
  • The Basenji sheds less.
  • The English Springer Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasenjiEnglish Springer Spaniel
Group
HoundSporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
CongoEngland
Height (male)
17"19–21"
Height (female)
16"18–20"
Weight (male)
24 lbs50–55 lbs
Weight (female)
22 lbs40–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–14 years12–14 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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, playful, obedient gundog — bred to spring game from cover for the hunter's net or gun. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 50–55 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, playful, obedient.

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Basenji health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Fanconi syndrome
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA

English Springer Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Phosphofructokinase deficiency