Puli vs. Basenji: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Puli or Basenji?

3 / 5

Puli has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

2 / 5

Basenji has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Hypoallergenic

Are Pulis or Basenjis hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Pulis are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Basenji is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Puli and Basenji dogs?

Agile
Faithful
Loyal
Energetic
Intelligent
Obedient
Smart
Home-Loving

Affectionate
Curious
Playful
Alert
Energetic
Intelligent

Shedding Level

Do Pulis shed more than Basenjis, or which breed sheds more, Pulis or Basenjis?

1 / 5

Puli or Basenji will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Puli or Basenji?

5 / 5

The Puli and Basenji dogs are some of the best choices if you want good watchdogs. These breeds will keep watch over you and your family at all times. They take this task seriously and will typically perform their guarding duty with little to no training. These dogs will require obedience training, or you can consider guard dog training to sharpen their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of Puli and Basenji dog breeds?

Hungary

Central Africa (Zaire and the Congo)

Ancestry

What are the origins of Puli and Basenji breeds?

hungarian shepherd dog

African Bush Dog

Date of Birth

When were Puli and Basenji breeds first developed?

middle ages

Ancient

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Puli and Basenji?

Herding (AKC:1936 & UKC)

Hound (AKC:1943)
Sighthounds and Pariahs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Puli and Basenji dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Puli and Basenji?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Puli and Basenji breeds?

Black
Gray
White

White
Black
Brindle
Red

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Puli and Basenji breeds?

5 / 5

Pulis are known for their coat length.

1 / 5

Basenjis have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Puli and Basenji?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Puli and Basenji?

Corded

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Puli and Basenji?

A Puli can have a litter of 12-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Basenji can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

Pulis are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

3 / 5

Basenjis have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Puli and Basenji, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Puli and Basenji breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Puli and Basenji breeds?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia

PRA
Fanconi Syndrome
Basenji Enteropathy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Puli and Basenji?

Cataracts

Persistent Pupillary Membranes (PPM)
Pyruvate Kinase (PK) Deficiency

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Puli and Basenji breeds?

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Eye
Dna Test For Pk
Fanconi Urine Test
Full Body Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Pulis and Basenjis compare?

5 / 5

Puli and Basenji breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Puli vs Basenji social needs comparison

3 / 5

Puli has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

2 / 5

Basenji has below average social needs and is content with spending time alone.

Exercise Needed

Puli vs Basenji exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

The Puli and Basenji breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Puli or Basenji?

1 / 5

Puli and Basenji are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Puli or Basenji?

1 / 5

Puli minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

2 / 5

Basenji has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Tendency to Bark

Do Pulis or Basenjis bark more/less frequently?

4 / 5

The Puli is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

1 / 5

Basenjis are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Territorial

Is the Puli or Basenji a better guard dog?

5 / 5

Puli dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

3 / 5

While Basenji dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Puli vs Basenji?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Puli vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Puli or Basenji - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Puli and Basenji entertained?

Fetch, Hiking, Running, Tug-of-war

Shake, Running, Sniffing, Cuddling, Destroying toys, Marking, Run, Play with Toys, Dog Parks, Walk, Being pet, Fetch, Smelling, Out, Catch treats, Play keep away, Play, Chase, Tracking, Eating Snacks, Walking, Mischif, Hiking, Lounging, Mountain biking, Off-leash, Fetch-ish, Trail running, Long hikes

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Pulis or Basenjis?

Pulis are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Basenjis are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

4 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Puli or Basenji walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Puli, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Basenji, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Pulis or Basenjis require more exercise?

In general most Pulis usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Basenjis usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Pulis or Basenjis?

5 / 5

Pulis have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

1 / 5

The Basenji is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Puli and Basenji dogs?

In general Puli should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Basenji should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Pulis and Basenjis?

Pin Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Puli or Basenji in cups?

For an average 30-35 pound (14 - 16 kg) Puli feed 2 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 22-26 pound (10 - 12 kg) Basenji feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Puli or Basenji?

The average cost of a Puli is somewhere $2.10 - $2.80 per day.

The average cost of a Basenji is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Puli or Basenji?

The average per month expenses of a Puli is between $63 - $84. This makes an average of $756 - $1008 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Basenji is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Pulis vs Basenjis

4 / 5

Puli is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

1 / 5

Basenji is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Sensitivity Level

How do Puli and Basenji compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

3 / 5

Basenjis have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Puli vs Basenji?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Puli or Basenji?

1 / 5

The Puli is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

2 / 5

Basenjis can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Pulis or Basenjis have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Puli and Basenji are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Puli or Basenji?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Puli or Basenji breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Pulis are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

2 / 5

Basenjis are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Puli or Basenji?

3 / 5

Pulis are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

2 / 5

Basenjis are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Puli or Basenji dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Puli or Basenji?

2 / 5

They can be below average friendly around strangers, being keen of eye and sharp of tongue, and very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Puli and Basenji may be friendly and outgoing, while others can be standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Puli and Basenji?

4 / 5

Pulis are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

3 / 5

Basenjis have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Pulis and Basenjis compare?

4 / 5

Puli and Basenji dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.