Eskenji

The Basenji is known as a “barkless” dog. He hails from Africa originally. He is one of the oldest breeds of dog. In fact, he usually only barks once then is silent. It is believed that hunters desired this trait in the Basenji’s ancestors. Some experts also believe he is more of a wild dog than a domesticated animal. He is more like a wild canid, according to experts. Even female Basenjis are able to breed only once a year, much like their wild counterparts. The Basenji was brought to the United States in the 1930s. Previous attempts to import the Basenji to Europe failed when the imported dogs died of disease. The Basenji Club of America was formed just a few years later in 1942.  The American Eskimo has German roots. European in descent, he has ties to the Pomeranian, German Spitz, the Keeshond and Italian Spitz. The American Eskimo, once called the American Spitz, started gaining popularity in the United States when he took the stage as a circus performer. His lustrous and brilliant white coat made him stand out in a crowd. Before his circus career brought him to America, he was primarily a helpmate on the farms. Today he is a member of the Non Sporting Group of the American Kennel Club and has been since 1994.