Basenji vs Greyhound

Hound · Small vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Greyhound is the larger breed at 65–70 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
  • The Basenji typically lives longer (13–14 years).
  • The Basenji has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBasenjiGreyhound
Group
HoundHound
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
CongoEgypt
Height (male)
17"28–30"
Height (female)
16"27–28"
Weight (male)
24 lbs65–70 lbs
Weight (female)
22 lbs60–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–14 years10–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
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
shortshort
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 Greyhound

The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.

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Basenji health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Fanconi syndrome
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA

Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity