Basenji

Quick facts

	AKC Group:	Hound
	Height:	16-17 inches Male, 15-16 Inches Female
	Weight:	22-26 pounds Male, 20-25 pounds female
	Colors:	Black, red, copper, chestnut red, and brindle; Tricolor: Black, white, and tan
AKC recognized in:		1944

Because the Congo remains its country of origin, the Basenji is also known as the Congo Dog, the Zande Dog, or the African Bush Dog. Primitive tribes in Central Africa used the Basenji as a forest guide and hunting dog. First introduced in England in 1937, the Congo Dog has been bred, refined, and exported all over the world.

Nicknamed the African Barkless Dog, the Basenji has this characteristic trait of not barking at all. It does make a certain noise known as a “barroo” which sounds more like a yodel. When the mood hits them as pack dogs, their growl can be unusually loud while their howl can be especially mournful.

More on the small side, the Basenji are basically muscular and athletic in built. They have a smooth, shiny coat which is short and fine. Their muzzle is relatively short while their forehead is often wrinkled.

Temperament

Basenji Summary
Affection
Cold Tolerance
Ease of Training
Energy level
Exercise Requirements
Friendliness : Children
Friendliness: Other Animals
Friendliness: Other Pets
Grooming Requirements
Heat Tolerance
Playfulness
Protection Ability
Watchdog Ability

The Basenji is one dog which responds well to training and leadership. They are very intelligent to the point of being clever.

To succeed above their obstinate and stubborn nature, you as the owner must display some natural authority. Firm, calm, and confident does it!

If you stick to your rules and don’t give in to its demands, it will develop that innate desire to please you as its master. It bonds strongly with humans and is best handled by older children. Although it socializes well with people and relates nicely to familiar surroundings, it tends to be reserved around strangers.

It is quite natural for the Basenji to be alert, energetic, and curious. When trained at an early age, it makes an affectionate pet who loves to play. Keep two or three Basenjis together, and they’ll get along in each other’s company.

Health and Exercise

Basenji dogs have no particular liking for cold and wet weather. They’d rather laze around and curl, or groom themselves much like a cat does. One of their favorite pastimes is to chew, so supply them with enough chew toys and treats to keep them preoccupied.

Like most dogs, they’ll need a regular dose of daily exercise to keep them mentally and physically fit. With enough exercise, they’ll be happy enough with apartment living indoors or with a small yard outdoors.

When they’re in good health, they’re naturally frisky and make good climbers. As an owner, you have to match their restless and active energies because they can be tireless during play.

When properly cared for, most Basenjis live for 10 to 12 years. They are capable of having 4 to 6 puppies once every year.

Urinary problems are the most-frequently encountered illness among the Basenji. This breed is particularly susceptible to the Fanconi’s syndrome, a disease whose symptoms lead to kidney failure. Along with age come other health concerns like progressive retinal atrophy and intestinal problems.

Visitor Comments

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