Berner Chow vs Basenji Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Berner Chow or Congo Dog?

Compare the Berner Chow and Basenji breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Berner Chow or a Congo Dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

African Bush Dog, Zande Dog, Congo Dog, Ango Angari, Congo Terrier, African Barkless Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Berner Chow and Basenji?

65.0 pounds ( 29 kg )

24.0 pounds ( 11 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Berner Chow and Basenji

18.0 inches ( 45.7 cm )

16.5 inches ( 41.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Berner Chows or Basenjis hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Berner Chow nor Basenji are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Berner Chow and Basenji dogs?

Aloof
Independent
Protective
Intelligent
Affectionate
Loyal
Quiet
Faithful
Detached

Affectionate
Curious
Playful
Alert
Energetic
Intelligent

Shedding Level

Do Berner Chows shed more than Basenjis, or which breed sheds more, Berner Chows or Basenjis?

Berner Chows are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Basenjis shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Berner Chow and Basenji breeds?

Chow Chow, Bernese Mountain Dog

African Bush Dog

Date of Birth

When were Berner Chow and Basenji breeds first developed?

Unknown

Ancient

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Berner Chow and Basenji?

3-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Berner Chow can have a litter of 3-6 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.

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

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

Berner Chow and Basenji dogs generally have an average level of adaptability when it comes to adjusting to changes in lifestyle and different living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

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

Berner Chows typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

While the Basenji breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Berner Chow and Basenji breeds?

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Meningitis
Histiocytosis

PRA
Fanconi Syndrome
Basenji Enteropathy

Minor Concerns

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

Sebaceous Adenitis
Hypothyroidism
Color Dilution Alopecia

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

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Berner Chow and Basenji breeds?

Hip
Elbow
Blood
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays

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

Social Needs

Berner Chow vs Basenji social needs comparison

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

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

Sleeping Need

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

Berner Chows have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Basenjis are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Berner Chow vs Basenji?

Roaming urge

Berner Chow vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

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

Hug competition, Ball games

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

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

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

Berner Chows require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

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

Sensitivity Level

How do Berner Chow and Basenji compare in sensitivity?

Berner Chow and Basenji dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Berner Chow or Basenji?

Berner Chows are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

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

Child Friendly

Do Berner Chows or Basenjis have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Berner Chows have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Basenjis are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

Do Berner Chow or Basenji breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

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

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

Dog Friendly

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

Berner Chows and Basenjis are below average dog friendly dogs. Berner Chows and Basenjis may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with.

Pet friendly

How do Berner Chow or Basenji dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Berner Chow or Basenji?

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 Berner Chow and Basenji may be friendly and outgoing, while others can be standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Berner Chow and Basenji?

Berner Chow and Basenji have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Berner Chows and Basenjis compare?

Berner Chows are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Basenjis are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.