Basenji vs Gordon Setter
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Basenji
Hound Group
Gordon Setter
Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Basenji Overview
Graceful and poised, the Basenji stands out with its distinctive wrinkled forehead, erect ears, and tightly curled tail. Known as Africa's 'barkless dog', this medium-sized hound exhibits remarkable cleanliness and cat-like agility. Their short, fine coat comes in rich chestnut red, black, tricolor, or brindle, always featuring pristine white feet, chest, and tail tip.
Gordon Setter Overview
Gordon Setters are elegant sporting dogs with distinctive black and tan coats. Their strong, muscular build combines with graceful movement and noble bearing. Standing 24-27 inches at the shoulder, these dogs feature a silky coat, deep chest, and intelligent expression. Their temperament balances confidence with affection, making them both capable hunting companions and devoted family dogs.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Basenjis are less energetic than Gordon Setters, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Basenjis require less grooming attention compared to Gordon Setters.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Basenjis tend to be more reserved with strangers than Gordon Setters.
- Trainability: Gordon Setters may be slightly easier to train due to their Gordon Setter's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Basenjis adapt better to apartment living, while Gordon Setters typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Basenji and Gordon Setter, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Basenji | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 13-14 years | 12-13 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Hound Group | Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Basenji | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 16-17 inches 41-43 cm | 23-27 inches 58-69 cm |
| Weight | 22-24 lbs 10-11 kg | 45-80 lbs 20-36 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Basenji | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Independent, Smart, Poised | Affectionate, Confident, Bold |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Basenji | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Basenji Temperament
The Basenji is known for being independent, smart, poised, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Gordon Setter Temperament
The Gordon Setter is characterized by being affectionate, confident, bold, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Basenji and Gordon Setter, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Basenji
Rating: 3/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Basenji
Rating: 3/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Basenji
Rating: 4/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 5/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Basenji
Rating: 2/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Basenji
Rating: 2/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Basenji Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Basenjis require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Basenjis require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Gordon Setter Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Gordon Setters need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Gordon Setters require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Basenji Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Fanconi Syndrome
- PRA
- Hypothyroidism
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hemolytic Anemia
Gordon Setter Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
Pros & Cons
Basenji
Pros
- No barking
- Minimal grooming needed
- Cat-like cleanliness
- Highly intelligent
Cons
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
- Challenging to train
- Requires secure fencing
Gordon Setter
Pros
- Loyal and affectionate
- Excellent hunting companion
- Good with children
- Athletic and energetic
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Regular grooming required
- Can be stubborn
- Not apartment-friendly
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Basenji and Gordon Setter, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.