Basenji vs Icelandic Sheepdog
Hound · Small vs Herding · Medium
BasenjiSmall
An independent, smart, poised African 'barkless dog' — yodel-vocal, cat-like in cleanliness, ancient lineage.
Weight: 24 lbsLifespan: 13–14 years
Icelandic SheepdogMedium
A friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings.
Weight: 25–30 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Icelandic Sheepdog is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
- • The Basenji typically lives longer (13–14 years).
- • The Basenji sheds less.
- • The Icelandic Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Basenji | Icelandic Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Herding |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Congo | Iceland |
Height (male) | 17" | 17.5–18" |
Height (female) | 16" | 16.5–17" |
Weight (male) | 24 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Weight (female) | 22 lbs | 25–30 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–14 years | 12–14 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) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
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 Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings. Originally from Iceland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, hardy, cheerful.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Basenji health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Fanconi syndrome
- • Hypothyroidism
- • PRA
Icelandic Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders