Basenji

There is documented evidence of

Basenjis 5,000 years ago in Egypt,

where they were known as “the pharaoh’s

dog.” In Africa, the breed was used as a hunting

dog. Although it has been known as the

“barkless dog,” it is not noiseless. Instead of

barking, these dogs yodel and shriek and can

be quite noisy.

The Basenji stands 16 or 17 inches tall and

weighs 20 to 25 pounds. She is very much an

athlete, lightly built but muscular. She has a

wrinkled forehead, upright ears, and almondshaped,

dark eyes. The tail is high and curled.

The coat is short and may be red, black, tricolored,

or brindle.

The Basenji’s short coat should be brushed

twice weekly with a soft bristle brush.

Although a walk morning and evening will be enjoyed, that’s not enough exercise. The Basenji

needs to run inside a safely fenced area where she can sniff for critters and run until she’s tired.

Although she doesn’t look like a sighthound, she has many characteristics of a sighthound, including

the joy of running and the hunting of prey by sight.

Enrolling in a puppy socialization class can help Basenjis be more comfortable with people outside

their families. Early training that is fun can teach her important household rules. Keep in

mind, though, that during training many people feel Basenjis

are more like cats than dogs. Although the breed is quick and

intelligent, it is not necessary compliant, so training can be a

challenge. However, with lots of positive reinforcement, the

Basenji can learn to enjoy training, and many have succeeded

in a variety of canine sports.

This breed can be very difficult for a first-time dog owner or

for an owner who wants a compliant dog. A Basenji’s owner

needs a sense of humor. The Basenji can be good with children

when they treat her with respect. She may chase cats and can be

dog-aggressive. Health concerns include eye, kidney, and thyroid

problems and anemia

BREED IN BRIEF 

Registries: AKC, UKC, CKC
Occupation: Hunter
Size: 16 to 17 in tall; 20 to25 lbs
Longevity: 12 to 14 years
Exercise: Needs to run
Training: Challenge
Grooming: Easy