Basenji Dog Breed Information:
Out of Africa, the Basenji dog breed was originally found in the Congo. These dogs use both scent and sight to hunt and were originally used to flush small game into hunters’ nets and to control village rodent populations. These days, they also make for great, loving, furry family members.
Basenji Dog Breed Group: Hound Dogs.
Basenji Height: 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder.
Basenji Weight: 22 to 24 pounds.
Basenji Life Span: 10 to 12 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
Well known as the "barkless" dog from Africa, the Basenji attracts admirers with his short coat, small, muscular body, alert demeanor, erect ears, and tail curled tightly over one hip. A wrinkled brow gives him a quizzical and sometimes mischievous expression.
Basenji History:
The Basenji is probably one of the oldest breeds of domesticated dog, and perhaps that's why he's not a barker. Early people may have preferred a quiet dog on hunts. Like his wild cousin the wolf, the Basenji can bark but usually barks only once and then is silent. It's also theorized that he is only partially domesticated. His metabolism is unlike that of any other domesticated dog, and like wild canids the female Basenji only cycles once a year compared to twice a year for other domesticated dogs.
Basenji Size:
Males stand 17 inches at the shoulder and weigh about 24 pounds, females 16 inches and 22 pounds.
Basenji Personality:
The Basenji is a hound. That means he's intelligent and independent, but also affectionate and alert. He's a sighthound, which means that motion catches his eye, and he'll chase whatever he sees that moves cats, squirrels, rabbits. He's not the kind of dog who will obey commands instantly. He has to think about them and decide if he really wants to do what you've asked.
Also Read This : All Dog Breeds - Names and Pictures | Complete List of Dog Profiles
Basenji Health:
Basenjis are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all Basenjis will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed. The following conditions may affect :
Fanconi Syndrome.
Immunoproliferative Systemic Intestinal Disease.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (Hemolytic Anemia).
Hypothyroidism.
Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM). Coloboma.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy(PRA).
Umbilical Hernia.
Hip Dysplasia.
Basenji Care:
The Basenji is a hunting dog and needs daily exercise. Some Basenjis do fine with a daily walk, while others require more enthusiastic forms of exercise. Basenjis raised with children often will spend their time wearing each other out.
Basenji Feeding:
Recommended daily amount: 3/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Basenji Coat Color And Grooming:
The Basenji wears a short, fine coat of rich chestnut red, black, tricolor (black and chestnut), or brindle (black stripes on a chestnut background), all with white feet, chest, and tail tip. He may also have white on his legs, a white blaze running up the center of his face between his eyes, or a white collar a white marking around his neck. You'll always see more of his primary color than white. His markings stand out clearly and never look muddy.
Basenji with Children And Other Pets:
Basenjis aren't known for being especially fond of children, but with their high energy level, they can be good companions for older children. If they're going to be around kids, it's best if they're raised with them from puppyhood. An adult Basenji who's unfamiliar with children is most suited to a home with children who are mature enough to interact with him properly.