vs

Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.

Compare English Setter and Basenji side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly
No
Yes
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
Yes
No
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span
10–14 years
12–16 years
Weight
25–36 kg
9–11 kg
Height
61–69 cm
40–43 cm
Origin
England
Congo
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The English Setter and Basenji are two distinct breeds, each with unique characteristics that cater to different lifestyles. The English Setter is a larger breed originating from England, known for its friendly and sociable nature, making it a great family pet. With a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, they require regular exercise and grooming. In contrast, the Basenji, a smaller breed from Congo, boasts a longer lifespan of 12 to 16 years and is more suited for apartment living. While both breeds are intelligent and good with children, their energy levels and trainability differ. The English Setter is more playful and trainable, whereas the Basenji is more independent and can stay alone for longer periods. Understanding these differences can help potential owners make an informed decision based on their living situation and lifestyle.

English Setter — Advantages

Good with kids
Sociable and friendly
Trainable and intelligent
Playful and energetic
Suitable for first-time owners

Disadvantages

Not apartment-friendly
Requires more exercise
Higher grooming difficulty
Can be noisy
Moderate shedding level

Basenji — Advantages

Apartment-friendly
Can stay alone for longer periods
Lower grooming difficulty
Less shedding
Good with kids

Disadvantages

Not suitable for first-time owners
Less playful than English Setter
Lower trainability
Requires moderate exercise
Less sociable than English Setter

Frequently Asked Questions

Which breed is better for families with children?

Both breeds are good with kids, but the English Setter is more sociable and playful.

Can I keep a Basenji in an apartment?

Yes, Basenjis are apartment-friendly and can adapt well to smaller living spaces.

How much exercise do these breeds need?

English Setters require more exercise compared to Basenjis, who have moderate exercise needs.

Which breed is easier to train?

The English Setter is generally more trainable than the Basenji.

What are the grooming needs of each breed?

English Setters have a higher grooming difficulty, while Basenjis have lower grooming needs.

free English Setter adoption listings

all listings in this category

free Basenji adoption listings

all listings in this category