Basenji - Facts You Must Know Before Adopting a Basenji

The Basenji is an elegant, poised hunting dog that originated in Africa. They are smoothly muscular and moves with strength and agility. Lightly built and has a wrinkled head, this breed weighs 22-24 pounds, and stands 16-17 inches. Widely known as the "bark less dog," this breed makes a yodel-like sound when excited.

Coat

The Basenji's coat is silky and short with pliable skin. There are four acceptable coat colors for this breed - black, black and tan, brindle, and chestnut red. Tail tip and chest, white feet, is on all the colors.

Activity

A very energetic dog, the Basenji needs more than just the regular walk around the block. A fenced yard where they can exercise themselves is advisable, although this cannot be substituted with activities done with their masters. Owners should always remember that this breed thinks that they are a member of the family, and yearns to be played with.

The typical Basenji may require more exercise than owners give them. Enrolling this breed in training courses will make it easier for them to get the exercise they really need. Agility training and lure classes are among of the recommended lessons for them as they are excellent activities for this dog.

Temperament

The Basenji has sharp eyesight and outstanding scenting ability. This breed doesn't usually bark, rather, it growls and yodel. Intelligent, independent, and alert, they are known to be affectionate to their families. Not suited for structured obedience tasks, this breed is rather good with children especially when properly socialized and guided. They are also known to be great with other pets, although same sex aggression may occur.

Overview

Bred for hunting purposes, the Basenji is considered a sight hound. Hunting by sight, they are known to have a strong hunting instinct that leads them to chase after anything, even cars.

Care

The Basenji needs less grooming than most of the other dogs. They wash themselves like a cat by continually licking their coats. Requiring little bathing, they do not have a doggie smell. If they spend a lot of time outdoors running and getting dirty, you might need to bathe them more often, though. This breed has sensitive skin, so be careful in using strong flea shampoo. Perform sensitivity test on their bellies first before shampooing them. It is important to ask for the veterinarian's advice first before doing anything new to your dogs.

Training

Bred to have a great prey drive, the Basenji is known to excel in lure coursing. This breed is very intelligent and highly energetic, so different types of training should be considered. Although obedience is not the typical Basenji is known for, they can be trained through dedication and hard work. They are eager to please, so training this dog with positive reinforcement and direction is recommended. In training this dog, affection, attention, and exercise coupled with firmness and positive training method should be applied.

Character

The Basenji is a very suspicious breed and is somewhat aloof to strangers. This breed is highly intelligent and independent, making training difficult. Alert, playful, and rambunctious, this dog is a wonderful family pet.