Basenji
Description
The Basenji is a handsome, muscular dog, who is also known as the African Barkless Dog. Basenji should not bark, but is not mute. Basenji’s repertoire of sounds range from a pleasing throaty crow to a keening wail made when he is lonely or unhappy. One of the oldest breeds of dogs, the Basenji is native to Africa where it is used to assist beaters in flushing game which is then driven into nets strung up against trees. His name means “wild and violent” in Swahili. The Basenji will make a good pet as long as he is handled on a regular basis from an early age.
Size of Male: Height: 17 inches Weight: 21 – 24 pounds
Size of Female: Height: 16 inches Weight: 22 – 24 pounds
Temperament
The Basenji is alert, affectionate, demanding, energetic and curious. Basenji loves to play and makes a good pet, as long as it is handled regularly from an early age. Basenji is very intelligent, responds well to training with a strong desire to please. They can be reserved with strangers. The Basenji is somewhat aloof, but can also form strong bonds with people. It should not be trusted with non-canine pets. They are usually patient, but do best with older considerate children. The Basenji dislike wet weather. They like to chew, so giving them lots of toys of their own would be a good idea. This breed likes to climb and can easily get over chained wire fences. Basenji are very clever at getting their own way, they succeed less by obstinacy than by charm. It has the unique properties of not barking (it makes a low, liquid ululation instead) and it cleans itself like a cat. It can be described as speedy, frisky, tireless at play and teasing the owner into play. Their strong desire to play can lead to behavior problems if left alone. Most Basenji problems usually involve a mismatch between owner and pet. The owners mistake the quietness to mean inactiveness instead of noiseless. This causes them to become harassed by an active, though but relatively silent dog.
Living Conditions
The Basenji will do ok in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. As with other dogs it is important that the Basenji gets enough exercise or it may misbehave due to the energy stored in it leading to destructive and undesirable behavior. The Basenji is very active indoors and a small yard will do. The Basenji is happiest when it is kept with two or three other Basenji and they will not fight among themselves.
Upkeep
The Basenji is an active dog that needs daily mental and physical exercise. Basenji’s needs can be met by a long walk followed by a vigorous game, or by running freely in a safe, enclosed areas. Basenji can live outdoors only in warm climates and generally does best as an indoor dog with access to a yard. Coat care is minimal, consisting of only occasional brushing of the Basenji to remove dead hair.
Health
Major concerns: Fanconi syndrome, Progressive retinal atrophy, Basenji enteropathy
Minor concerns: Persistent pupillary membranes
Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years