Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

With a name meaning “Bush thing” in Swahili, the muscular Basenji is an athletic and elegant hunting dog originating from Africa. They are also known as the African Barkless dog that hunts with sight and scent but never barks. These dogs do have an array of other unusual vocalizations including yodels and crowing sounds. Depending on their mood, they may howl, growl or even crow. Basenji dogs are similar in size to fox terriers and feature a smooth, balanced structure. They have curling tails that stay to one side of their muscular thighs. With powerful and graceful muscles, they move with ease and agility and are known to have a distinctive trotting, horse-like running gait. These dogs make good pets as long as they are handled on a regular basis from an early age. They are alert, curious and demanding. They also love to play and have an energetic and affectionate demeanor. Female Basenjis come into heat only once a year unlike the majority of other domestic breeds that have two heats per year.

TEMPERAMENT

Basenji puppies and dogs are extremely playful and respond well to training. These intelligent dogs have a strong desire to please and should be trained from an early age. While Basenji puppies and dogs may be reserved with strangers, they do make strong bonds with people and do best with considerate older children. They should not be trusted, however, with non-canine pets. Additionally, Basenjis enjoy climbing and should be watched since they can easily get over chain wire fences. They tend to chew and should be given many toys to prevent damaging furniture. Basenji puppies and dogs do not like wet weather. These active dogs have a strong desire to play, which can be problematic in terms of behavior if they’re left alone often. They do not bark and are often described as tireless playmates that are known to tease their owners into play. Another unique attribute of this breed is their cat-like friskiness and tendency to clean itself, much like a cat.

GROOMING

As light shedders, Basenji puppies and dogs are good for people with allergies. Their short, fine coat and very pliant skin does not require special grooming. Additionally, these dogs do not have a “doggie” smell since they wash themselves like cats.

HEALTH

Basenji puppies and dogs may have health problems including hip dysplasia, hernias and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy). Anemia and thyroid problems may also be concerns for this breed.

EXERCISE

To prevent obesity in Basenji puppies and dogs, daily exercise is strongly suggested.

TRAINING

This dog breed is naturally clean making house training easy and almost second nature to them.

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