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Basenji vs Golden Retriever

Discover the differences between Basenji and Golden Retriever 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.

Golden Retriever
Scotland

Golden Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.

Quick comparison

Size:

Medium

Male:

10–12 kg

Coat:

Short, fine

Lifespan:

12–16 years

Female:

9–11 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Large

Male:

29–34 kg

Coat:

Double coat, water-repellent

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–29 kg

Energy:

High energy

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

Golden Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs

Intelligence
5/5

Quick to learn commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and mental stimulation

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various 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

Golden Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

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.

Golden Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Highly suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people

Kids
5/5

Perfect fit

Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

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

Golden Retriever

  • Friendly with children and other pets
  • Highly trainable and eager to please
  • Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
  • Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
  • Strong retrieving and swimming abilities

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

Golden Retriever

  • Prone to obesity without portion control
  • High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
  • Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions

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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