20-24 lbs
15-16"
Central Africa (Zaire and the Congo)
The Basenji is described as a mischievous and lively breed with a “barkless” feature to their personality. Said to have originated in Africa, they became highly revered in Egypt. There, this slender dog was gifted to the pharaohs as a sign of respect and loyalty. This keen canine was known as a hunter who loved to hunt rats and other small rodents, also serving as a companion. They have a short, fine coat with pricked ears. Their forehead is wrinkled, creating an expression of endless worry. Their unique personality is described as being cat-like in regards to their independence and hygiene. The Basenji is known as an intelligent breed with a highly curious streak. This pup is fairly easy to maintain; their short coat requires weekly brushing with a curry brush to help reduce the amount of shedding.
While the exact timeline of the breed is unknown, the dog's ancestors were said to have originated in Central Africa. The origin of the breed name Basenji is derived from ancient Congo and Sudan dogs, with the word “Basenji” meaning “bush thing”. It is also said that this revered dog was presented to the pharaohs as gifts due to their companion status. While there are pictures of similar dogs in ancient Egypt, it is difficult to provide details as to whether this barkless pup was the breed depicted. Introduced to England in the 1930s, there had been earlier attempts to bring this eager pup to England in 1895 but the dogs succumbed to distemper. In 1941, this canine was introduced to the United States as a pet and show breed, though the original purpose was to hunt small game. This avid hunter would find their prey and lure it. These sleek and attractive dogs appeared in some media in the past, such as Goodbye, My Lady in 1956. In the movie, the dog is emphasized due to their signature yodel rather than traditional bark. Additional canines were imported from Africa in the 80s in order to help breed out hereditary problems and widen the gene pool. There was also a push to introduce more colors to the breed, such as brindle. It was around this time that the short haired pup was officially recognized as a sighthound and competed in trials. As for official breed recognition, in 1942 the Basenji Club of America was formed and they were formally recognized as an official breed in 1943.
Described as having a light build with a swift gait, the Basenji has high legs which appear to be longer than their torso in proportion. The muzzle is described as being shorter than the skull and they have eyes that are small and almond-shaped, ranging in color from dark hazel to dark brown. Additionally, their head is wrinkly and maintains an expression of worry and thought. Their prickly ears are locked on top of their head, allowing for easier hunting techniques. Their coat is short and straight and can come in colors of black and white; red and white; tri color (black, tan, and white); brindle and white; or trindle color (black, brindle, and white). This attractive dog maintains a white-tipped tail, white underbelly, and white paws. The tail curls over their back. This breed’s pose is described as elegant and graceful with striking poise. This sleek dog does not have a traditional bark and instead yodels as a form of communication.
The Basenji should be brushed at least once weekly with a rubber curry brush to reduce the amount of shedding. They should be bathed once every 4 to 6 weeks to prevent the natural oils from being overproduced. They are not hypoallergenic but do experience low-level shedding, especially seasonal shedding. The coat is odorless and only requires minimal care. Nails should be trimmed every 2 to 3 weeks to prevent damage due to overgrowth. This active pooch requires daily exercise to prevent boredom, which may result in destructive behavior. High-level activities will able them to remain entertained; obedience training is always a good place to start. This breed would do well with more than one Basenji present in the home. They need extra space to be able to run around and explore their environment. However, they should not be left alone without some entertainment. Independent yet affectionate, they are happy to live indoors with their owners and will provide great companionship. This dog fares well in climates where the temperature is not too extreme. They do not have any known specific dietary needs.
Described as intelligent, stubborn and catlike, this distinctive dog is also considered affectionate towards their owners. This dog does not bark but uses their yodel methods to communicate. As a result of their original purpose, they enjoy a traditional game of chase and trail. This breed likes to be able to be entertained and in turn, likes to make their owners happy. While the Basenji is doting, they will not resort to following you everywhere as they usually have their own plans to follow. They may partake in property destruction if not provided with enough high-level activity to keep their day going and because of this, this resourceful pooch is often described as mischievous with an energetic streak. The Basenji is better suited for families with older children who would understand how to care for them appropriately and handle their personality. They are independent, may hesitate with introductions to strangers, and have been known to make a great watchdog. Training this clever dog should be split into short and entertaining sessions. It is important to use positive reinforcement techniques such as food and praise rewards. This special dog is able to get along with other pets if they are raised with them. If not, it is important to keep them away from smaller animals in the home as they were originally bred to hunt.
