Basenji vs Portuguese Water Dog
Hound · Small vs Working · Medium
BasenjiSmall
An independent, smart, poised African 'barkless dog' — yodel-vocal, cat-like in cleanliness, ancient lineage.
Weight: 24 lbsLifespan: 13–14 years
Portuguese Water DogMedium
An affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets.
Weight: 42–60 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 24 lbs for the Basenji.
- • The Basenji typically lives longer (13–14 years).
- • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Basenji | Portuguese Water Dog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Working |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Congo | Portugal |
Height (male) | 17" | 20–23" |
Height (female) | 16" | 17–21" |
Weight (male) | 24 lbs | 42–60 lbs |
Weight (female) | 22 lbs | 35–50 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–14 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very Low (1/5) | 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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.
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Basenji health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Fanconi syndrome
- • Hypothyroidism
- • PRA
Portuguese Water Dog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Storage diseases