The Basenji
The Basenji was originally developed in central Africa for hunting purposes in what are now Zaire and the Sudan, but the first traces of a dog similar to the Basenji have been found on the walls of ancient Egyptian tombs of five thousand years ago.
In some African language Basenji can means; "wild and violent", "dogs from when we were wild", or "dogs from long ago". The noble Basenji is a small to medium sized dog with a slim body and long legs.
Muscular, fast and playful he has a strong hunting instinct, so he loves to chase anything, animals as well as … cars! Renowned for the unique properties of not barking, he makes a variety of sounds, including chuckle, squeals and yodel.
Breed Group
Hound
Size
15 - 17 inches tall (at shoulder)
Weight
20 - 26 lbs
Color(s)
The basenji has a smooth shiny coat of copper, Chestnut red, black and tan, tricolor (red/black/white) or brindle all with white feet, chest and tail.
Coat
The smooth coat of the Basenji is short and fine and has an uncommon luster like shiny copper.
Life Expectancy
About 10 - 12 years.
Personality
The proud Basenji is intelligent, affectionate, exigent, energetic and curious (he preferably needs to be controlled by a leash). He loves to play and makes a good family pet that can be good with older considerate children, as long as it is handled regularly from an early age.
Care
The Basenji breed dislike wet weather and can be prone to P.R.A (progressive retinal atrophy), intestinal and kidney problems, allergic skin diseases, hernias can be a problem to.
Extremely clean pet, the Basenji is a good dog for people with allergies, because he tends to wash himself like a cat and has nearly no doggy odor, and sheds little to no hair. The short coat of the Basenji shouldn't require much grooming, nevertheless an occasional brushing with a firm bristle or wire brush will do ok.
Training
The Basenji is a very alert and sensitive breed that responds well to training, however is not recommended for an inexperienced owner as he can be disobedient from time to time, for him everything must be examined and explored. This breed should have variety, consistency, and firm handling methods to keep his attention, as he tends to bore quickly.
Activity
Prone to obesity the Basenji needs vigorous daily exercise to stay in shape. They like to play, so giving them lots of toys can be a good idea, but they do best with two or three other Basenji. He likes to climb and can be an escape artist, a securely fenced yard is essential.