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Basenji
Basenjis are small, elegant-looking, short-haired dogs with erect ears, tightly curled tail, and graceful neck. Some people equate their appearance to that of a miniature deer. Their forehead is wrinkled, especially when young. Eyes are typically almond shaped, which gives the appearance of squinting with a serious look. It is not uncommon for a Basenji to stare down a person, which gives some people an unsettling feeling.
Developed in Africa for hunting, the Basenji is noted for its tightly curled tail, wedged shaped head and wrinkled forehead. With their swift, effortless gait, they present themselves as being very graceful. The present name basenji means wild and violent in Swahili, which suggests once aggressive nature of this breed. 
Basenjis are sight hounds which mean they hunt by sight. Their hunting instincts make them run after anything that moves, especially cars. They should not be allowed to run loose outside a securely fenced area.
Best known as a non-barking dog, they do make sounds, such as yodeling and wailing when they are excited. Basenjis are similar to cats in that they keep themselves exceptionally clean. The females come into season once a year in the fall while most females of other breeds come in twice per year. They're little dickens. Not appropriate for inexperienced owners. Ownership requires time, effort and understanding. Usually aloof with strangers.
Basenji Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | Central Africa. |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 5 Spitz and primitive types. Section 6 Primitive type.
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| Utilization: |
Hunting dog, companion. |
| AKC Classification: |
Hound Group |
| Size: | Medium |
| Personality: | Barkless but not mute, its own special noise a mixture of a chortle and a yodel. Remarkable for its cleanliness in every way. An intelligent, independent, but affectionate and alert breed. Can be aloof with strangers. |
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Height: | 16-17 inches at shoulders |
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Colors: |
Pure black and white; red and white; black and tan, and white with melon pips and tan markings on muzzle and cheeks; black; tan and white; brindle : red background with black stripes, the more clearly defined the stripes the better. The white should be on the feet, chest and tail tip. White legs, blaze and white collar optional. |
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Other Names: | Non-barking dog; barkless Congo dog |
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Average Litter Size: | 6 puppies |
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Life Span: | 10-13 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
Very little brushing. This is a self-cleaning dog. |
| Shedding: | Little |
| Social skills: |
Early socialization necessary to offset its instinct to fight with other dogs and become an obedient family pet. |
| Suitability for Children: | Usually patient and friendly with children if socialized early.
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| Exercise Needs: | Vigorous daily walks. Basenjis have the stamina of a hunter. |
| Train Ability: | Puppies should be home raised with lots of human contact. Obedience training is a must. |
Diseases that are most commonly seen in Basenjis include:
1. Hip Dysplasia (OFA certification of hips after 2 years of age. Preliminary x-rays may be done at an earlier age.)
2. Fanconi syndrome
3. Persistent Pupillary Membrane
4. Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency
5. Cataracts
6. Corneal dystrophy
7. Immunoproliferative enteropathy (lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis)
8. Progressive retinal atrophy (CERF certification required)
9. Retinal dysplasia
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| Responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for hereditary diseases. |
COMMENTS
The dog that doesn't bark
"...The dog that doesn't bark. But let me tell you they make a lot of other noises. They're a very interesting breed and I used to know someone that bred them but I can't say I'd like to buy one..."
Posted by liselott on Wednesday, November 12, 2008
I wouldn't have anything but the Basenji!!
Hi, I have read the reviews, and can't help but come to the defense of the Basenjis!! LOL :)
I have owned and bred Basenjis for 14 years, and I love them. Although they can be extremely destructive for about the first year and 1/2. Lots of attention, love, exercise and discipline goes a long way. A Basenji is stubborn and he/she needs to be made aware that you are the boss, and your rules have to be consistently enforced. If you don't, you are in for much trouble including attitude problems, destruction and so forth...Yes, they are very time consuming, but if properly trained, make excellent pets and great companions!! I wouldn't have anything but the Basenji!!
Posted by deesbasenjis on Tuesday, May 23, 2006
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