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Basenji vs English Bulldog

Discover the differences between Basenji and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

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Basenji
Democratic Republic of the Congo

Basenji

Hound Group
Medium

Alert, independent, and elegant, this breed is famous for its quiet nature and expressive face. Known for being affectionate yet cat-like, it thrives with active families.

English Bulldog
England

English Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Stocky, courageous, and affectionate, this breed charms with its wrinkled face and calm nature. Loyal and gentle, it thrives as a loving family companion.

Quick comparison

Size:

Medium

Male:

10–12 kg

Coat:

Short, fine

Lifespan:

12–16 years

Female:

9–11 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–25 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

8–10 years

Female:

18–23 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Basenji

Friendliness
3/5

Can be aloof, bonds closely with family

Intelligence
4/5

Learns quickly, enjoys mental challenges

Energy Level
5/5

High stamina, active throughout the day

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys interactive games and chasing

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts moderately to new environments and changes

English Bulldog

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate and gentle with family and children

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands with some patience

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to most living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Basenji

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
60–75 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in warm climates
Health concerns:

Fanconi syndrome, progressive retinal atrophy

English Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
20–40 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Basenji

First-time Owner
2/5

Requires experience

Basenjis can be stubborn and independent, posing challenges for novice owners.

Apartment Living
3/5

Moderately suitable

Small size fits apartments, but they need daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Great fit

Basenjis thrive with active owners who can meet their exercise needs.

Kids
2/5

Use caution

Their high energy and excitability may overwhelm very young children.

Multiple Pets
2/5

Mixed compatibility

They can be territorial and may not get along with other pets, especially small animals.

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Basenjis can become destructive or vocal when left alone for extended periods.

English Bulldog

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles

Kids
5/5

Very suitable

Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

They struggle with long periods alone and are prone to separation anxiety

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Basenji

  • Cleans themselves like cats
  • Minimal doggy odor
  • Intelligent and quick learner
  • Agile and athletic build
  • Low-shedding coat

English Bulldog

  • Affectionate with family members
  • Generally good with children
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Minimal grooming needs
  • Adaptable to apartment living

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Basenji

  • Can be aloof with strangers
  • Strong prey drive toward small animals
  • Prone to boredom if under-stimulated
  • Difficult to train off-leash recall
  • May be destructive when left alone

English Bulldog

  • Prone to respiratory problems
  • High risk of overheating
  • Susceptible to skin infections
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • Tends to drool frequently

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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