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.

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Is A Basenji Right For Your Family?

If you want a dog that doesn't bark and grooms itself and you have plenty of time to romp in the park, then the Basenji might be the perfect dog for you!

This small sized dog is full of energy and a great pet for those with allergies. Having short hair that rarely sheds, this dog also has the distinction of cleaning itself much like a cat does and has no doggie odor that you associate with most canines. The Basenji also does not bark - instead he yodels or chortles or howls depending on what he is trying to say.

This compact and athletic dog is thought to hail from ancient Egypt where drawings of these dogs were seen in tombs. He is short haired with long legs and straight open ears. He has almond shaped eyes set into a flat skull and, perhaps his most interesting feature is the wrinkling of his forehead which makes him look like he is worrying about something! The tail is held high and curls down over one side of his back. Basenjis come in many colors - brindle, red, copper and black and tan and most often are seen with white on the chest, face blaze, legs and tip of the tail. They weigh in at under 26 pounds and should stand under 17 inches with females being a bit smaller.

The basenji is full of energy and extremely intelligent. He is easy to train as he is eager to please his master. This dog will bond with his family and is a curious and affectionate pet but he may be wary of strangers and doesn't typically get along to good with other pets, particularly small animals like ferrets and rabbits. This breed needs lots of exercise and toys - he loves to chew so be sure there is plenty of chew toys around the house. He is also very agile and can leap over things and even has been known to climb a fence or two to get to the other side.

While the Basenji can be a good apartment dog, he does need lots of exercise both indoors and out. He can be very active in the house but if you are willing to play then so is he! He must have daily walks and plenty of time playing in the park. You might consider getting a couple of Basenjis as they do like to hang around with their own breed and can help each other work off energy. Be sure that you do spend lots of time exercising your Basenji or you may run into behavioral problems and end up with a fat lazy dog!

If you are worried about excessive barking, then the Basenji might be a great dog for you as he simply does not bark. They do, however, make other vocal sounds that have been likened to yodeling so they do express themselves vocally. Since the Basenji grooms itself, you won't have to spend time brushing and bathing, but the time you save there will probably be spend in exercising your pet.

The breed is relatively healthy but can be prone to kidney problems as well as intestinal trouble and eye problems. It is important that you have regular checkups with your vet to keep your Basenji in perfect health and be on the lookout for any problems, especially with the kidneys as these will need to be treated immediately. With proper care your Basenji could live up to 12 years and that's a lot of trips to the park!

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Basenji Puppy And Dog Information

The Basenji is an ancient African pack hunting dog. She is fairly small in stature and cat like. She will tolerate older children if properly socialized at an early age. Remember to never leave any young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog for any length of time. She keeps herself so clean that she barely sheds. She is basically a quiet dog, rarely barking, although she can make a racket if she wants to.

The Basenji is probably unsuited for apartment life because she prefers to live in a pack. She also loves to chew, everything. If you try to fence her in, she will probably climb the fence to escape, as she is a climber and an escape artist. She needs plenty of exercise.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Basenji is approximately 17 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and about 24 pounds. The female should run about 17 inches to the withers and about 22 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. All dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed. The Basenji has the following potential problems. Umbilical and Inguinal Hernias, PPM or Persistent Pupillary Membrane (related to the eye and generally does not cause symptoms), hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), certain eye anomalies, canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint), Hemolytic Anemia (serious to deadly blood problem), small intestine problems and PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness).

*Grooming. The Basenji has a fine short coat with very pliant skin. She will clean herself like a cat and sheds very little so almost no coat brushing is necessary. Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

*Life Span. The Basenji can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Basenji has an amazing, ancient history. Likenesses of them are carved on Egyptian pharaohs tombs. The breed disappeared and were re-discovered in the Congo in 1895. The African people, Mangbetu and Azande used them singly and in packs to help chase game into nets. They were imported to England and America in the 1930 time frame. The AKC, American Kennel Association accepted them as a breed in 1943.

*Registries:

Basenji Club of America

CKC Continental Kennel Club

FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

AKC American Kennel Club

UKC United Kennel Club

NKC National Kennel Club

APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

CKC Continental Kennel Club

Category: Hound, Sight hound, Hunting dog.

Terms To Describe The Breed: Alert, affectionate, intelligent, independent, swift, elegant, graceful,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Rarely barks.

She keeps herself very clean.

Highly intelligent.

They form a strong bond with their human family.

Sheds very little.

Almost no dog odor.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Does not like water or getting wet.

May test her limits just for fun.

Can become very destructive if left alone too long.

Territorial, can be hostile to other dog and animals.

They are fence climbers.

Will chew most everything.

Rarely barks but can make plenty of noise.

Not a scary looking watch dog.

*Other Names Known By: Barkless Dog, Zaire Terrier, Congo Terrier

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Basenji - The Barkless Dog

If you are looking for a dog that isn't noisy, then the Basenji is for you. This dog breed actually does not bark! They also make great pets because they are so affectionate, playful and smart.

The Basenji is a very old dog breed. It is at least five thousand years old! Proof of their existence has been found in Egyptian tombs as well as wall drawings. In 1934, the Basenji was brought to Europe where it became very popular. Breeders in Europe refined the breed and began to export it to many other places around the world. Today, the dog has many uses. Some people use it as a pack hunting dog for small game. It is even used as a guide in Africa where it warns people of dangerous animals. The Basenji is also called the Congo Dog.

The Basenji is rather small and muscular. It is a short haired dog that has a shiny, smooth coat of either red, black and brindle, black and tan, or copper. Most Basenjis have white feet and white on the chest. The average weight is 24 pounds. Even though the dog does not bark, it does make other sounds such as a howl, yodel, growl and a crow.

This breed has an excellent temperament. It is very affectionate, playful, alert, energetic and curious. It is also very intelligent and does well with training. The Basenji is very eager to please and often forms strong bonds with its owners. However, they can be somewhat shy with strangers.

Even though Basenjis are usually patient, they shouldn't be trusted with small children. They do better with older children that are more careful and considerate. They also do not do well with animals of other species. Only keep them with other dogs. Basenjis love to be kept in groups of two or three, so you might want to get a few Basenjis to keep each other company.

Another great thing about this breed is how clean they are. If you have allergies this dog would be great for you. The Basenji cleans itself just like a cat does so you do not have to do much grooming. It also doesn't have a dog smell and doesn't shed!

Even though this breed is very quiet, that does not mean that it is inactive. This dog is very active and energetic. It loves to play and needs plenty of exercise. You will need to provide exercise for this dog every day. If the Basenji does not get the activity it needs, it will become fat and lazy. If you live in an apartment, just be sure you take the dog out every day for walks.

The Basenji is very prone to developing a kidney problem called Fanconi's syndrome. As soon as the dog gets the symptoms of this condition, it must be treated. Make sure you take the dog to the vet regularly. Many Basenjis also have eye and intestinal problems.

If you are interested in getting a Basenji, just be sure that you understand how active this dog is. You must be able to provide the exercise this dog needs. Basenjis make wonderful pets and can even be kept by people with allergies.

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All About the Basenji Dog Breed

The Basenji: A curious, warm climate dog originally bred in Africa

The Basenji is an African dog breed that was originally developed in Zaire. It is sometimes also referred to as the Congo Dog or even the Congo Terrier. These unique dogs are not typically barkers, however, they do have a range of strange vocalizations that they make including crows and keening wails. They were developed for hunting to help flush game birds from the bush.

Characteristics, behavior and health concerns of the Basenji breed

The Basenji is a small breed dog that will not grow taller than 17 inches, or weigh more than about 24 pounds when fully grown. They have a short, smooth, silky fur coat that is appropriate for the warming climates. Common fur colors of the Basenji include copper, red, black and tan, and black and brindle. The health problems that are associated with this breed include PRA, intestinal problems, and often kidney problems.

Routine health care and grooming of the Basenji

To care for and groom this breed you will want to bathe and brush their fur coat only as needed. They will need daily physical exercise to keep them from putting on too much weight. They have a naturally curious nature so you will want to make sure that you either keep them on a leash when at the park, or keep them in a securely fenced yard. Basenji do OK in apartment settings as long as they receive appropriate exercise. Average life expectancy for this breed is around 10-12 years of age.

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Basenji - Most Ancient Dog Breeds

The basenji breed of dogs is mainly found in Africa. This breed of the dogs is one of the most ancient breeds. One can see basenji on steles in the tomb of Egyptian pharaohs sitting with their masters.These is a kind of hunting dog. Basenji also has a nick name 'Voiceless dog' because they have the unique property of not barking instead the sound they produce is unusual yodel like sound. Basenji is small in size and they have hair short in length and erect ears. The tail of the basenji is tightly curled. The appearance of them can be considered as a miniature deer. The weight of a basenji varies from 20 pound to 25 pound where as the height varies from 12 inches to 18 inches. According to their physical structure they can be considered as a square breed because they are as long as tall. When a basenji is young it has a wrinkled forehead.

They also look like squinting because of their eyes as they are almond shaped. They are found in different colors: red, tricolor (black and tan), black brindle (red background and black strips) and brindle i.e. tricolor with brindle points .Unlike other dogs they very rarely pants. This breed does not like the wet weather. Some basenji likes to climb. According to a survey completed in 2004 many basenji suffer from PRA, which may create the problem of blindness and can also prevent the kidney from proper working. Basenji also have the problem of Hypothyroidism IPSID (immunoproliferative systemic intestinal disease), HA (Hemolytic Anemia). Some household chemicals may cause infection in the liver of basenji. The life span of them exists from 12 years to 15 years. At the time of late 19th century when European entered to Congo, the basenji had almost disappeared from west. They were used as an assistant by their masters in hunting and chasing wild games. The people from northeastern Congo region called the breed as 'dogs of savages' or "dogs of the villagers" or 'dog of the bush'.

In a radio program This American Life, a true story of a basenji was broadcasted. The episode tells the story of a man who adopted a basenji because of its quality of not shading. But with in some days he got bored of the dog and he took away the dog on a farm 30 miles away from his home, but with in some days the dog got its way back home.

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Quiet & Solitude Basenji - The Barkless Dog

The Basenji may be considered a strange breed of dog. The breed is a small, short haired hunting dog from Africa. This breed is an ancient breed that does not bark. The dog does make noise but it sounds more like a chortle or yodel. Your neighbors will love this breed of dog.

The Basenji has a short back and is slightly built. Even with the slight build, the Basenji is an athletic dog about the size of a fox terrier. The Basenji has a smooth shiny coat of copper, red, black and tan, and can also be a black and brindle color.

The feet are usually white. The white color repeats on the chest and the tip of the tail. The forehead is furrowed with wrinkles, giving the breed a worried look. The tail is set high and curled.

The Basenji was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1943. The Basenji is categorized in the Hound Group. The Basenji is considered both a sight hound and a scent hound.

The breed is elegant and graceful. One of the most endearing qualities of the Basenji is its unusual gain. The dog has a distinctive run which resembles a racehorse trotting. Another distinct feature of the breed is that the female Basenji comes into heat only once a year.

The Basenji grows to a height of between 16-17 inches for males and from 15-16 inches for females. They weigh 22-26 pounds for males. The females weighs from 20-25 pounds.

This is high energy pet requires lots of exercise. The breed wants to play constantly. This is good for a family with children. However, the playful nature can become a nuisance at times when play is not appropriate. Of course, children love this playful nature. The children will tire out before the dog. This strong desire to constantly play can lead to behavioral problems. Obedience training is required with this breed.

The Basenji breed loves children. The high-energy level of children and the Basenjis' love of continuous play can benefit most parents and dog owners. Before the day ends, both dog and children will be ready for some much needed rest.

The Basenji breed does have some common health issues which include:

• Fanconi Syndrome (a kidney disease)
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (a gradual onset blindness that begins at four-to-five years of age)
• Thyroid problems
• Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)
• Umbilical and Inguinal Hernias

Very little grooming is required for the Basenjis. The Basenjis has very clean habits. The Basenjis spend hours grooming themselves. Their grooming habits are somewhat like those of a cat. Amazingly, there is no doggie smell. This is a good dog for people with allergies because the breed sheds little to no hair.

The Basenji is an alert, affectionate dog. This breed makes a good family pet, especially a family with active children. This dog like to chew and climb. Beware of this dog's agility. They have been known to maneuver over chain wire fences.

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Basenji - The Egyptian Dog

The Basenji is a small to medium sized dog weighing between 22 to 25 pounds. Their height is around 15" to 17". Known as the barkless dog, the Basenji (bah-SEN-gee) makes a low howl/moaning/yodeling sound instead of barking. They are also called the Congo Dog.

The smooth, shiny, dense coat is short and lies flat against the body. AKC acceptable colors for Basenjis are black, chestnut red, tricolor or brindle all with white on chest, feet and tip of tail in any color including pinto, white or brindle. The coat is easy to care for. Basenjis are also known for licking and grooming their hair like a cat.

This high energy dog makes an excellent watchdog. They are slow to warm up to strangers and will alert you if they see a stranger. They need a lot of exercise and play. Since they are a little on the independent side, they also enjoy some alone play. Chewing is one of their favorite pastimes, so load them up with toys so they don't pick your favorite pair of shoes as a chew toy. They tend to no do well with non-canine pets. With early socialization, they can do well with children and other dogs. Because they possess a little bit of an independent nature, early training is recommended to help curb any unwanted behaviors.

Originating in Africa, the Basenji dates back to ancient times in Egypt. Pictures of the Basenji are on the walls in ancient Egyptian tombs. They are mainly used as watchdogs in Africa to warn others of the presence of wild game and they often hunt wild game as pack dogs.

Just because the Basenji does not bark, does not mean that they are a meek, quiet lap dog. They are very energetic and need plenty of play and exercise. They are perfect for homes that enjoy outside activity and will make sure that their Basenji has time to run and roam.

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How to Housebreak a Basenji Puppy?

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• 1 Set up a dog crate before even bringing your Basenji puppy home. Buy a crate that’s large enough for a full-grown Basenji dog (a small breed, 16 to 17 inches tall). Use the partition (included with your crate) to section off a smaller area, housing a puppy. The space should be large enough for your puppy to stand and turn around. Always use the partition because puppies often pee in the corners of oversized crates, away from where they sleep.
• 2 Set up a schedule for potty breaks. Write down appointed times to take your leashed Basenji outside, including immediately after awakening in the morning, as well as following meals, naps and play times. Use the same spot, as this not only shows your pet where to go potty, but also provides the familiar smells to attract your puppy to the right area for future bathroom trips.
• 3 Always take your puppy outside on a leash, not allowing her to play until she performs her bathroom business. Whenever your Basenji pees and/or defecates in the correct spot, lavish her with praise, small treats, and playtime.
• 4 Carefully supervise your puppy indoors, while noting any sniffing or body motions (such as squatting) which may suggest a potty break. After awhile, owners don’t have to supervise their puppies inside the house as closely because most dogs (other than Basenjis) begin to bark when they need to go outside. However, Basenji owners can use noisemakers such as wind chimes (or bells) to help with communication problems. Hang wind chimes from a doorknob, closest to the chosen outdoor bathroom area.
• 5 Demonstrate how to use the wind chimes (or bells). Each time you take your Basenji to the door, grab a paw, showing her how to strike or brush against the wind chimes. After about a week of this routine, your Basenji should start “ringing” the chimes (or bells), independently, signaling when she needs to go outside.

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Basenji Health Information - Umbilical and Inguinal Hernias

Umbilical hernias are very common in Basenjis. They can be repaired at any time; the surgery is often done when a pet is spayed or neutered or during any other procedure requiring anesthesia. Small closed hernias generally do not cause problems; large or open hernias can cause problems if a loop of intestine gets caught in the hernia. Some breeders routinely repair even small closed hernias. Dogs who have had umbilical hernias repaired are still eligible for participation in AKC conformation events.

Inguinal hernias are uncommon in Basenjis. They generally do require surgical repair. Dogs with repaired inguinal hernias are not eligible for participation in AKC conformation events.

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Basenji Health Information - Other Eye Anomalies

Coloboma

Coloboma is the absence, complete or partial, of a portion of the eye. The mode of inheritance of coloboma is not yet understood. Basenjis with colobomas typically have optic nerve colobomas. A Basenji with a coloboma will not receive certification from the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), and the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) breeding recommendation is not to breed an affected. Since Basenjis can, in some cases, have normal optic nerves that are somewhat more deeply cupped than other breeds, it is possible to have a false positive. If a Basenji is diagnosed with a coloboma, a second opinion, with an ophthalmologist familiar with Basenji eyes, has been recommended by some of our researchers.

Corneal Dystrophy

Epithelial/stromal corneal dsytrophy is not uncommon in Basenjis. This is a condition where the cornea becomes clouded. It is believed to have a hereditary component, but does not normally compromise vision. The ACVO breeding recommendation on epithelial corneal dystrophy is Breeder's Choice - the breeder should consider this, but it is not a reason, in and of itself, to disqualify a dog from breeding. Basenjis with epithelial corneal dystrophy will CERF.

Endothelial corneal dystrophy is less common in Basenjis. This is a more deeply-seated disorder than epithelial. The ACVO breeding recommendation on this condition is NO, and Basenjis with endothelial corneal dystrophy will not CERF.

These anomalies can be detected in a CERF exam (see above under PRA.) An annual CERF exam is recommended for all breeding stock. Coloboma is present from puppyhood, but many other eye disorders, such as corneal dystrophy, can onset later in life. Thus, a normal CERF exam does not guarantee that the dog will not later develop a hereditary eye problem. And a CERF exam cannot measure whether or not a dog carries genes for a hereditary eye problem.

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Basenji Health Information - Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Description

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an eye condition in which the retina begins to deteriorate, causing visual loss and generally leading to blindness. A form of late-onset progressive retinal deterioration is known to occur in Basenjis. Onset is typically late to very late, with typical onsets between ages 4 and 10. Onsets have been reported between ages 3 and 13.

Basenjis can also have some unusual, but benign, forms of retinal pigmentation that can easily be confused with PRA or retinal degeneration. Both false positives and false negatives are common with Basenji PRA.

It is not currently known if Basenji PRA is one disease or more than one. Mode of inheritance is presently unknown, although most forms of PRA are recessive.

ResearchIf your dog is diagnosed with PRA, blood samples of your dog, his or her parents, any offspring, and any full siblings should be sent to the Canine Phenome Project, our breed’s DNA bank. There are plans to use this DNA for research on PRA, with a goal of identifying the mode of inheritance and the causative gene.

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) exams by an American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) certified veterinary ophthalmologist include examinations for PRA, as well as the other eye anomalies noted below. CERF exams are recommended annually for breeding stock. Dogs that test normal can receive a certificate.

A CERF exam indicates only the present state of a dog's eyes. Since PRA onsets later in life, a CERF exam cannot predict whether or not a dog will develop PRA in the future. Further, a CERF exam cannot evaluate whether or not the dog will produce PRA.

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Basenji Health Information - Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)

Description

Persistent Pupillary Membrane is a condition where the fetal membrane of the eye does not completely reabsorb. It is extremely common in Basenjis. This disorder does not progress, and in fact often puppies with mild PPM become normal as they get older.

Testing

It is a good idea for breeders to have an ACVO certified veterinary ophthalmologist check their puppies at 7-9 weeks of age, to determine the presence or absence of PPM. Most PPM is not associated with visual problems, although very severe PPM can cause visual difficulties. However, PPM that severe has become very uncommon as breeders breed away from it. Breeders should be aware of the PPM status of their dogs.

A Basenji with iris to iris PPM can receive a Canine Eye Registration Foundationcertificate. All other grades of PPM (iris to lens, iris to cornea, and iris sheets) cannot. Most Basenji breeders will not disqualify a dog from breeding solely due to mild PPM.

PPM can get better, but does not get worse. A CERF exam will show current PPM status, but it does not tell you whether or not the dog can produce offspring with PPM.

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Basenji Health Information - Hip Dysplasia

Description

Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip socket is badly formed, often leading to lameness and arthritis. It is believed to be polygenic, with multiple genes involved in its expression.

Approximately 3 - 3.5% of Basenji x-rays submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) are dysplastic. The actual rate of hip dysplasia may well be higher, as the veterinarian and owner may not submit dysplastic results.

Testing

Breeding stock should be x-rayed for hip dysplasia. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals has a web site that permits downloads and searches of dogs that have passed with a grade of Fair, Good, or Excellent. In addition, the OFA has recently added the option of having results placed in an open health registry, so that Borderline and Dysplastic ratings can be made public.

Good and Excellent are the preferred grades for breeding stock, although Fair is not considered dysplastic.

Dogs can be OFA-screened for hip dysplasia at 2 years of age or older. Screening tests, studying and considering the hip scores of progeny, and breeding from tested stock are the recommended methods of controlling hip dysplasia.

OFA status at 24 months of age is generally considered definitive of that dog's hip status. However, there is a small chance a dog can go dysplastic later in life.

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Basenji Health Information - Thyroid problems

Description

Basenjis are known to have a higher than average rate of hypothyroidism. The most common symptoms include weight gain, poor coat, and reduced activity level.

Testing

Studies have suggested that Basenjis have a higher than average incidence of autoimmune thyroiditis. Elevated TSH and TgAA levels are used to diagnose autoimmune thyroiditis - however, over time, these levels may subside. Thus, dogs must be checked regularly, since dogs that have had autoimmune thyroiditis for some time may not later show the elevated TSH and TgAA needed for definitive diagnosis.

For that reason, it is a good idea for breeders to periodically check their breeding stock with a full thyroid panel. It is also a good idea for pet owners to check their dogs, especially if they show any symptoms. A full thyroid panel is one that includes total thyroxine (T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 by dialysis, and thyroglobulin autoantibody (TgAA or TAA.) Hypothyroidism is easily treated with an inexpensive thyroid supplement.

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Basenji Health Information - Hemolytic Anemia

Description

Pyruvate kinase-deficient hemolytic anemia was first diagnosed in Basenjis in the 1960s, although prior to that date Basenjis had died of a then-unknown form of anemia. Research began in the 1960s, with a carrier test available in 1972.

Testing and inheritance

The gene is a simple recessive. Affected dogs may faint, typically have very white gums and mucous membranes, are likely to have low energy levels, and have light, "golden" colored stools. Affecteds typically die by age 2, with age 4 being the outside limit of survival.

Most Basenjis are now descended from tested clear stock. A few carriers still exist in the gene pool, so it is a good idea to use only dogs descended from tested clear stock or dogs that have themselves been tested. A DNA test, available by cheek swab, is available from VetGen and the  University of Pennsylvania. A blood-based test is available from Dr. Johnson at the University of Missouri. OFA has an open registry for hemolytic anemia DNA status.

DNA testing gives an actual reading of the dog's status as a clear, carrier, or affected, so the testing does not have to be repeated.

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Basenji Health Information - IPSID

Description

IPSID stands for immunoproliferative small intestinal disease, but it is a disease of many names. It is also called basenji enteropathy, immunoproliferative lymphoplasmacytic enteritis, basenji diarrheal syndrome, and malabsorption

IPSID is one of several different types of inflammatory bowel disease, which result in the dog not being able to utilize and absorb nutrients correctly from food.

Genetic predisposition

While IPSID is considered to be inherited, inheritance alone appears to be only one of the factors involved. When normal Basenjis have food allergies or a viral or bacterial infection and they become sick, at worst, they will come down with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). With proper medical care they can be cured or maintained for life. A dog genetically predisposed to IPSID and its resultant immunicological weakness might start with plain vanilla IBD and eventually progress to IPSID. Stress of a physical or emotional nature also seems to be a factor.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include diarrhea (both large and small bowel), vomiting, weight loss, protein loss, increased or decreased appetite, depression, and gas. The type of symptoms and their severity differ from dog to dog, and from one time to another. Dogs with IPSID often will have good periods and bad periods. While the prognosis has been very poor I have been hearing of dogs that do well using a holistic approach to treating the disease. I have also talked to one holistic vet who feels comfortable treating a dog with IPSID with the possibility of returning it to health.

Typical diagnosis and treatment

Most of the time vets will use a process of elimination to diagnose IPSID. Blood serum protein levels may be low. Barium x-rays may show an enlarged section of the intestine. Biopsy is the only reliable way to diagnose IPSID; it is done to rule out irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel syndrome and disease, lymphangiectasia (which most basenjis with IPSID have as a secondary condition), colitis, cancer, and systemic fungal infections. Endoscopic biopsies are preferred to prevent complications with healing.

The traditional methods of treating IPSID include systemic prednisone and antibiotics. Symptoms may diminish or increase over time, and a veterinarian must oversee treatment and changes to treatment. IPSID affected dogs may be adverse bacterial reservoirs, and can harbor organisms that may cause problems for other dogs in the household.

Diet

It may be a good idea to change the dog's diet to one that is better tolerated and allows better nutrient utilization. Some veterinarians suggest switching diets on a monthly basis. A homemade diet also can be used. Additional vitamin supplementation may be indicated.

Further resources

There are holistic veterinarians who treat IPSID. Some will do phone consults and will work with your allopathic veterinarian.

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Basenji Health Information - Fanconi Syndrome

Description 

Fanconi syndrome is a disorder in which the kidney’s proximal renal tubules do not properly reabsorb electrolytes and nutrients back into the body, but instead "spill" them into the urine. Symptoms include excessive drinking (polydipsia), excessive urination (polyuria), and glucose in the urine (glucosuria.) If Fanconi is left untreated, muscle wasting, acidosis, and poor condition will also occur.

Untreated, a Basenji with Fanconi syndrome will generally die from the disorder. If caught early and put on the treatment protocol, affected Basenjis can do well.

Checking for Fanconi

The earlier the disease is detected, the less damage is done to tissues and organs. The vast majority of Basenjis with Fanconi "spill" glucose into their urine, although it is possible in very rare cases for a dog to have Fanconi and not spill glucose. It is generally recommended that Basenji owners test their dog's urine for glucose every month, starting at age 3. Urine glucose test strips (not blood test strips), such as those used by diabetics, are inexpensive and can be purchased at most pharmacies.

The strip should be placed in the Basenji's urine stream and then read as specified in the strip instructions. If it is not possible to place the strip in the urine stream, then the owner may need to catch the urine in a clean container. (Some breeders use a pie pan, ladle, or serving spoon.) A positive result (glucose present) suggests the possibility of Fanconi, but is not sufficient for definitive diagnosis. Owners should then go to their vet for further testing, including a blood glucose level.

Strip testing indicates only the current presence or absence of glucose in the urine. It does not definitively diagnose Fanconi, and it cannot predict whether or not a dog will later develop Fanconi. A dog that test strips normal now may later develop Fanconi. Additionally, a dog that test strips normal and does not have Fanconi does not mean it cannot produce offspring with Fanconi.

Because elevated urine glucose is also found in diabetes, Basenjis with Fanconi are often misdiagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes will show high blood glucose along with urine glucose. In Basenjis, a combination of urine glucose and normal or low blood glucose strongly suggests Fanconi syndrome. Venous blood gas studies can verify an electrolyte imbalance consistent with Fanconi syndrome. A veterinarian should evaluate dogs that have Fanconi symptoms but are not spilling sugar.

DNA testing for Fanconi

A linkage marker DNA test has been developed to test for the mutation for Fanconi syndrome. The mode of inheritance has been determined to be recessive.

The test can determine if a dog is a carrier, clear, or affected with a high degree of accuracy, and can predict that a dog will become affected prior to the development of symptoms. The test is available through the University of Missouri School of Veterinary Medicine.

All Basenji matings should have at least one parent that tests clear, so affected offspring are not produced. Breeders should test breeding stock. All litters should have at least one clear parent.

Pets can be tested to verify a Fanconi diagnosis or to help assess their likelihood of coming down with Fanconi. However, check with your breeder first - pets with a clear parent do not need to be DNA tested. Further, even if your dog is DNA tested clear or carrier, you should still strip-test, as there is a small risk of error with the linkage DNA test.

Onset and treatment

The onset of Fanconi is typically between four and eight years of age, although onsets as early as three years and as late as ten years have occurred.

In 1990 Dr. Steve Gonto developed a treatment protokol, based on the treatments human Fanconi patients receive. The protocol involves acid neutralization, and replacing the lost electrolytes and nutrients, using bicarbonate and other supplements in specified doses to re-establish the body's acid-base balance and keep electrolytes at appropriate levels. Dr. Gonto was given lifetime membership in the Basenji Club of America in recognition of the importance of his work.

The Gonto protocol was studied and validated for the veterinary literature by Jennifer Yearley, DVM, while she was completing her professional studies. This was an important step in expanding the awareness of the treatment. The protocol has been very successful in improving both quality and length of life for Fanconi-affected Basenjis. The disorder can be controlled by the protocol, but it cannot be cured.

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How to Get Your Basenji Puppy to Stop Biting ?

1. • 1
     Pull the bitten body part away from the besenji puppy and say "ouch" loudly. Basenji puppies are typically sensitive and intuitive and will react when you verbally let them know they've hurt you. If the puppy continues to bite, walk away from it. The basenji will soon learn that biting results in stopped play.
   • 2
     Reward your basenji puppy when it is not biting. Basenji are originally hunting dogs and, therefore, thrive on rewards. Give your puppy treats or praise whenever it plays without biting. Doing so will encourage the non-biting behavior.
   • 3
     Say "No" firmly and place your hand around the basenji pup's jaw, quickly inserting your thumb underneath the basenji's tongue, after it bites you. Hold the puppy in this way for a few moments. This technique prevents the basenji from biting you and also feels uncomfortable to the puppy. The basenji puppy will eventually stop biting you to avoid this undesirable hold. According to the Complete Guide to Dog Ownership, this technique is especially good for basenjis with severe biting problems.
   • 4
     Assert your dominance over your basenji puppy. According to the Secrets of Dog Training website, basenjis will often bite as a means to show their dominance. Nip this behavior in the bud by showing your pup that you rule the roost. Always handle your dog's food and make it wait for your permission before it eats to show that you are in charge.
   • 5
     Always walk through doors ahead of your puppy. In addition, when on walks, keep your basenji on a short leash and beside you at all times. These are other ways to assert your dominance over your besenji puppy. The more your basenji respects you and knows you are the leader, the more it will obey you and likely stop biting.

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