The Basenji, originally from Central Africa, was bred as a hunting dog. They stand between 16 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 22 and 24 pounds. Their coat is short and smooth and is typically red, black, brindle, or fawn. Basenjis have a long, narrow head with a pointed muzzle and erect ears. They have a deep chest and a short, muscular body. Basenjis are known for making unique barkless vocalizations. They yodel, which is a high-pitched, somewhat musical sound. They also bark, but are much quieter than other dogs.
This is high-energy dog requires a lot of exercise. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, preferably more. Basenjis are also very intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation. Because of their active mind, they are often good at agility and obedience training. While highly intelligent, their independence can lead to stubborn streaks. They need to be trained with patience and consistency.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Central Africa
- Size: Small to medium, typically weighing around 22-24 pounds (10-11 kg)
- Breed Group: Hound Group
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Coat: Short, fine coat that comes in various colors, including red, black, tricolor, and brindle.
- Temperament: Intelligent, independent, and alert. Basenjis are known for their unique “barkless” trait and their cat-like grooming habits.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate exercise requirements. They enjoy physical activities, but mental stimulation is equally important.
- Training: They have a strong hunting instinct and can be a bit stubborn. Training should be consistent, patient, and use positive reinforcement.
- Grooming: Basenjis have minimal grooming needs due to their short coat. Occasional brushing and routine care suffice.
- Health: Generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia and kidney problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are important.
Always remember to prioritize adoption. There are many wonderful dogs waiting for their forever homes at shelters and rescue organizations. When you adopt a dog, you are not only giving them a new home, but you are also making a difference in the lives of other animals.
Basenji Pictures
Adaptability
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Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Looking for the best dog for your apartment? Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks.
However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. Opting for a pet that doesn’t excessively bark and behaves politely when encountering others in shared spaces like is crucial for maintaining a harmonious apartment environment.
In high-rise settings, it’s worth noting that numerous small dogs may exhibit a propensity for high energy and frequent barking. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dog For An Apartment
When considering dogs that adapt well to apartments, size alone should not be the sole determinant. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. It’s important to remember that the size of your living space is just one factor to consider. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, it is crucial to consider your neighbors’ comfort when selecting a dog. Opt for a pet that doesn’t bark excessively and behaves politely when interacting with others in shared spaces.
Therefore, it’s important to prioritize qualities such as being quiet, low-energy, calm indoors, and exhibiting good manners when living in close proximity to other residents. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved.
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Good For Novice Owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
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Sensitivity Level
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
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Tolerates Being Alone
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
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Tolerates Cold Weather
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!
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Tolerates Hot Weather
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All-around friendliness
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Affectionate With Family
When it comes to unconditional love and unwavering loyalty, few animals can rival the affectionate nature of dogs. These remarkable creatures have earned their reputation as man’s best friend, and many breeds are particularly renowned for their love and devotion to their families. With their warm hearts and wagging tails, affectionate family dogs enrich the lives of their owners in countless ways.
One such breed known for its affectionate demeanor is the Golden Retriever. With their gentle temperament and friendly disposition, Golden Retrievers form deep bonds with their families. They eagerly participate in family activities, whether it’s a game of fetch in the yard or cuddling on the couch during a movie night. Their expressive eyes and ever-wagging tails are a testament to the joy they feel in the presence of their loved ones.
Another family-favorite breed is the Labrador Retriever. Renowned for their playful and patient nature, Labradors are excellent companions for children and adults alike. They readily engage in playtime with the kids, showcasing their boundless energy and enthusiasm. But when the day winds down, they seamlessly transition into loving and gentle cuddle buddies, comforting their family members with their warm presence.
Beyond specific breeds, mixed-breed dogs also have a special place in the hearts of families seeking affectionate companions. The shelter dogs, in particular, form deep connections with their adoptive families. They seem to understand the second chance they’ve been given and repay it with endless love and gratitude.
How To Know If A Dog Is Good With Families
The affectionate nature of family dogs extends beyond play and cuddles. Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense their owner’s emotions, offering comfort and support during difficult times. Whether it’s a wagging tail after a long day at work or a sympathetic nuzzle during moments of sadness, they prove time and again that they are attuned to their family’s needs.
It is important to note that not all dogs of the same breed will be equally affectionate. Some dogs may be more independent or aloof, while others may be more clingy or demanding of attention. The best way to find out how affectionate a dog is is to meet them in person and interact with them.
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Kid-Friendly
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
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Dog Friendly
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
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Friendly Toward Strangers
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!
Health And Grooming Needs
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Amount Of Shedding
If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!
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Drooling Potential
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
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Easy To Groom
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
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General Health
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.
If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.
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Potential For Weight Gain
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.
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Size
Get ready to meet the giants of the doggy world! Large dog breeds aren’t just big balls of fluff, they’re like loving, oversized teddy bears on a mission to steal your heart. Need some convincing? Let’s dive into the awesome benefits of owning one!
First things first, these pooches are a living security system! With their impressive size and thunderous barks, they’ll have any would-be intruder running for the hills. Talk about peace of mind! Plus, who needs an alarm when you’ve got a furry giant protecting your castle?
But that’s not all. Large dog breeds are all about loyalty and devotion. They’ll stick by your side through thick and thin, becoming your most dedicated bestie. Their love knows no bounds! When you have a giant fluffball showing you unconditional love, you’ll feel like the luckiest human on the planet.
Now, let’s talk about their talents. These big fellas are the ultimate working partners. With brains and brawn, they’re up for any challenge. From search and rescue missions to lending a helping paw to those in need, these dogs are superheroes in fur coats. They’ll make you proud every step of the way!
Don’t let their size fool you—these gentle giants have hearts as big as their paws. They’re incredible with kids and other pets, spreading their love like confetti. Their patience and kindness make them perfect family pets, ensuring harmony in your household.
Oh, and get ready to break a sweat! These dogs are fitness enthusiasts, and they’ll keep you on your toes. Daily walks, jogs, and play sessions will not only keep them happy and healthy but will also give you a reason to ditch the couch and join in on the fun. It’s a win-win situation!
So, if you’re ready for a dose of big love, go ahead and consider a large dog breed. They’re the best wing-dog you could ever ask for, ready to make your life a thousand times more exciting, loving, and downright awesome! Get ready for the big adventure of a lifetime!
Trainability
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Easy To Train
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.
Related:
10 Fun, Impressive Tricks You Can Teach Any Dog
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Intelligence
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
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Potential For Mouthiness
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.
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Prey Drive
Dogs with a high prey drive have an instinctive desire to stalk, capture, and prey upon potential food sources. Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase — and sometimes kill — other animals. Anything whizzing by — such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars — can trigger that instinct.
How to address a high prey drive
Off-leash adventures are too great a temptation for pups who will wander and hunt. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed. And, even on a leash, you may experience your dog pulling on the leash to reach rodents or birds in their sight. Otherwise, these pups should be kept in a fenced area when outdoors. If your pup has a high prey drive, you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard.
These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Other behavioral concerns
Observing your dog’s prey drive, which is instinctual and biologically-rooted, is not the same as observing aggression. Much aggression is born of fear and anxiety, especially in the case of dog aggression toward humans.
The tendency to wander, even into oncoming traffic, can produce diasterious results for pups with predatory instincts. It can also lead to pups being bitten by snakes or attacked by other wild animals they may pursue while on the hunt.
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Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes. Learn more about breeds with a tendency to bark or howl.
If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
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Wanderlust Potential
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.
Exercise needs
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Energy Level
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
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Intensity
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
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Exercise Needs
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
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Potential For Playfulness
Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
Basenji Overview
The Basenji is a small, muscular dog with a short coat, alert demeanor, erect ears, and tail curled tightly over one hip. They are known for their “barkless” vocalizations, which range from a delightful yodel to a hair-raising scream. Basenjis are also intelligent and independent, but they can be stubborn and destructive.
If you are considering getting a Basenji, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared for the commitment. They are not for everyone, but for those who appreciate their unique personality, they can be wonderful companions.
Here are some of the things to consider about this breed:
Pros:
- Intelligent and independent
- Clean and low-shedding
- Make excellent watchdogs
- Good at lure coursing and agility
- Striking appearance
Cons:
- Stubborn and destructive
- Not good with small children
- Escape artists
- Not good at fetching
- Can be difficult to train
If you are looking for a loyal and intelligent companion, the Basenji may be the right breed for you. However, it is important to be aware of their unique personality and needs before making a decision.
Here are some additional tips for owning a Basenji:
- Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Be consistent with training and be patient.
- Protect your belongings from their destructive tendencies.
- Supervise them closely when they are outdoors.
- Consider getting them involved in activities like lure coursing or agility.
With proper care and training, a Basenji can be a loving and rewarding companion.
Basenji Highlights
Basenjis don’t bark, but they can make various sounds like yodels, whines, and even screams. They’re not easy to train because they’ve been independent thinkers for thousands of years. They choose when to obey, even with positive training.
Their strong prey drive means they shouldn’t be off-leash unless in a secure area. They’re skilled escape artists, climbing fences or darting out of open doors. They’re energetic, so it’s essential to provide outlets, and crating when unsupervised is a good idea.
Basenjis see themselves as part of the family, needing lots of time and attention. They might not do well with small pets like hamsters, gerbils, birds, etc., due to their chasing instinct. If you raise them with cats, it can work.
They’re stubborn, and trying to force them can lead to confusion and aggression. Neve purchase from irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Find a reputable breeder who tests the parent dogs for genetic diseases and ensures good temperaments.
Basenji History
The Basenji is believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds, which might explain why it’s not a typical barker. Early humans likely preferred quieter dogs during hunts. Similar to its wild relative, the wolf, the Basenji can bark but usually does so just once before going silent. Some think it’s only partially domesticated.
The Basenji has a unique metabolism compared to other domestic dogs, and female Basenjis only have one cycle a year, unlike the usual two cycles for other dogs. These dogs were discovered by Westerners in the Congo region of West Africa in the 19th century. They were used to flush game, carry goods, and alert to dangers while on trails.
In Africa, some tribes valued a good hunting Basenji more than a wife, appreciating not just their hunting skills but also their resourcefulness. Initial attempts to bring Basenjis to Europe failed due to diseases, but successful importation occurred in the 1930s in both England and the United States. The Basenji Club of America was established in 1942, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1943. Phemister’s Bois was the first Basenji registered with the AKC in 1944.
Basenjis are quite rare, ranking 84th among the 155 AKC-recognized breeds and varieties. If you’re interested in getting one, be prepared to spend time on a breeder’s waiting list.
Basenji Size
Male Basenjis typically have a shoulder height of around 17 inches and weigh approximately 24 pounds. Females, on the other hand, are about 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 22 pounds.
Basenji Personality
The Basenji is a smart and independent hound, but it’s also affectionate and alert. Being a sighthound, it’s fascinated by movement and might chase after cats, squirrels, and rabbits. It’s not the type of dog that obeys commands immediately; it takes time to consider whether it wants to do what you’re asking. Patience and a sense of humor are crucial when living with a Basenji.
They have a knack for getting into things within their reach, whether it’s chewing or eating, and they’re skilled at devising plans to get what they want, such as reaching kitchen counters or finding the dog treats in the pantry. Basenjis can be reserved with strangers, and it’s important to be cautious around cats or small animals unless they’ve grown up with them and recognize them as part of the family. However, this recognition doesn’t extend to outdoor cats or small animals; they’re fair game.
Basenjis need early socialization and training like any other dog. Proper socialization—exposure to various people, sights, sounds, and experiences—while they’re young helps ensure they grow up well-adjusted. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten, having visitors over, going to busy places that allow dogs, and taking leisurely walks to meet neighbors all contribute to their social skills. Training should be kind and consistent, using positive reinforcement like food rewards and praise. Harsh treatment will only make them more stubborn. Keeping training interesting is essential, as Basenjis can develop selective hearing when something more exciting grabs their attention.
Basenji Health
The Basenji, like all breeds, has its potential health issues, so it’s important to be informed if you’re considering this breed. When purchasing a puppy, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who can provide health clearances for both the puppy’s parents. These clearances indicate the absence of specific conditions. For Basenjis, you should expect health clearances from organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease. You should also expect clearances from Auburn University for thrombopathia and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) for normal eyes. You can verify these clearances on the OFA website (offa.org).
Some health conditions to be aware of include:
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Fanconi Syndrome: A kidney disease affecting sugar and protein processing. It’s usually diagnosed in dogs aged 4 to 7. There’s no cure, but new management methods have increased life expectancy.
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Immunoproliferative Systemic Intestinal Disease: A condition similar to irritable bowel disease in humans. It’s become less common in Basenjis over time.
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Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (Hemolytic Anemia): A genetic condition affecting red blood cells, leading to a shorter life expectancy.
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Hypothyroidism: Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, it may produce various signs, but it can be well managed with daily medication.
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Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM): Strands of tissue in the eye, usually disappearing by 8 weeks of age. If not, they can lead to cataracts or other issues.
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Coloboma: A gap or hole in the eye structure, usually inherited, with effects ranging from mild to severe.
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A family of eye diseases leading to gradual vision deterioration, sometimes causing blindness. Responsible breeders test for this and avoid breeding dogs with PRA.
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Umbilical Hernia: Present at birth, some small hernias close without treatment, while large hernias may require surgery.
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Hip Dysplasia: A heritable condition where the thighbone doesn’t fit well into the hip joint, leading to pain and arthritis. Responsible breeders screen for this and don’t breed dogs with hip dysplasia.
Being aware of these potential health issues and ensuring you get your Basenji from a reputable breeder who tests for these conditions can help you provide a healthy and happy life for your furry friend.
Basenji Care
The Basenji is a hunting dog that requires daily exercise. Some Basenjis are content with a daily walk, while others need more vigorous activities. When raised with children, they often play together, tiring each other out. However, the Basenji can’t be left unsupervised in the backyard due to its escape artist skills; an unattended Basenji can easily go missing.
With a couple of 30-minute walks or play sessions every day, the Basenji can adapt well to apartment or condo living. Always use a leash unless you’re in a securely fenced area, as Basenjis can overcome typical fences. They’ll even use chain link fences as ladders, and a wooden fence may not be sufficient unless you place the smooth side facing the yard and add an electric wire on top.
Similar to cats, Basenjis tend to dislike rain. They might be grumpy if you take them for a walk in wet weather. However, they may enjoy getting wet on exceptionally hot days.
Basenji Feeding
Recommended daily amount:
- Adult Basenjis should eat 3/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals.
- The amount of food your Basenji needs will vary depending on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.
- A highly active Basenji will need more food than a less active Basenji.
- The quality of the food you feed your Basenji also matters. Better quality food will be more nutritious and your Basenji will need to eat less of it.
Feeding tips:
- Basenjis are prone to weight gain, so it is important to monitor their food intake and make sure they do not become overweight.
- To help keep your Basenji’s weight in check, measure their food and feed them twice a day instead of leaving food out all the time.
- Basenjis need plenty of exercise, so make sure they get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.
- If you are unsure whether your Basenji is overweight, you can do the “hands-on test.” Place your hands on your Basenji’s back, with your thumbs along the spine and your fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel your Basenji’s ribs, but you should not be able to see them. If you cannot feel your Basenji’s ribs, they are overweight and need to eat less food and get more exercise.
For more information:
- For more information on feeding your Basenji, please see our guidelines for buying the right food, feeding your puppy, and feeding your adult dog.
Basenji Coat Color And Grooming
The Basenji sports a short, fine coat in striking colors like rich chestnut red, black, tricolor (black and chestnut), or brindle (black stripes on a chestnut background). These coat colors come with white markings on the feet, chest, tail tip, and possibly legs, a blaze on the face between the eyes, or a white collar around the neck. His primary color always predominates, and his markings are distinct and not muddled.
The Basenji, resembling a cat in grooming habits, keeps himself immaculate. Baths should be needed only every few months, and while they do shed (like all dogs), the short and fine nature of their hair makes it less noticeable than in some other breeds. To maintain oral health, brush your Basenji’s teeth at least two or three times a week to prevent tartar buildup and bacterial growth. Daily brushing is even better for gum disease prevention and fresh breath.
Regular nail trims are essential; if you hear the nails clicking on the floor, they’re too long. Short nails keep your legs scratch-free when your enthusiastic Basenji jumps up to greet you. Start grooming practices early, when your Basenji is a puppy. Get him accustomed to being brushed and examined, especially handling his paws, as dogs can be sensitive about their feet. Make grooming a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, setting the stage for easy vet exams and handling when he’s grown.
As you groom, check for any signs of sores, rashes, or infection on the skin, ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as on the feet. Ears should smell pleasant without excessive wax, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. A thorough weekly examination will help you detect potential health issues early.
Basenji Children And Other Pets
Basenjis are not typically known for being fond of children. However, with their high energy level, they can be good companions for older children who are mature enough to interact with them properly. If you are considering getting a Basenji for your family, it is important to introduce them to children from a young age. This will help them get used to being around children and will reduce the risk of any problems.
It is also important to teach children how to approach and touch dogs safely. They should never approach a dog from behind or try to pull its ears or tail. They should also never approach a dog while it is eating or try to take its food away.
It is important to supervise any interactions between dogs and children, even if the dog is familiar with children. This will help to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Basenjis should not be trusted around cats or other small animals unless they have been raised with them and you are sure that they recognize them as family members. If a Basenji sees a cat or other small animal outside, it is likely to chase and try to catch it.
Here are some additional tips for introducing a Basenji to children:
- Start by allowing the dog and child to sniff each other through a barrier.
- Once the dog and child are comfortable with each other, you can allow them to interact in a controlled environment.
- Always supervise any interactions between the dog and child.
- Teach the child how to approach and touch the dog safely.
- Be patient and understanding. It may take some time for the dog and child to become friends.
With patience and proper introductions, a Basenji can be a loving and loyal companion for children of all ages.
Basenji Rescue Groups
Basenjis are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Basenjis in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. If you don’t see a rescue listed for your area, contact the national breed club or a local breed club and they can point you toward a Basenji rescue.
Basenji Breed Organizations
Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues.
Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the Basenji.
