Basenji vs Lhasa Apso
Hound · Small vs Non-Sporting · Small
BasenjiSmall
An independent, smart, poised African 'barkless dog' — yodel-vocal, cat-like in cleanliness, ancient lineage.
Weight: 24 lbsLifespan: 13–14 years
Lhasa ApsoSmall
A confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside.
Weight: 12–18 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Basenji is the larger breed at 24 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
- • The Basenji has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Basenji | Lhasa Apso |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Non-Sporting |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Congo | Tibet |
Height (male) | 17" | 10–11" |
Height (female) | 16" | 10–11" |
Weight (male) | 24 lbs | 12–18 lbs |
Weight (female) | 22 lbs | 12–18 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–14 years | 12–15 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) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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 Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside. Originally from Tibet, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, comical.
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Basenji health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Fanconi syndrome
- • Hypothyroidism
- • PRA
Lhasa Apso health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye disorders
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Skin issues
- • Kidney disease