| Basenji are small, elegant-looking, short-haired dogs with erect ears, a tightly curled tail, and a graceful neck. Some people consider their appearance similar to that of a miniature deer. A basenji's forehead is wrinkled, especially when the animal is young. Basenji eyes are typically almond shaped, which gives the dog the appearance of squinting seriously. Basenji are typically a square breed, which means that they are as long as they are tall. The basenji is an athletic dog and is deceptively powerful for its size. They have a graceful, confident gait like a trotting horse, and skim the ground in a "double-suspension gallop", with their characteristic curled tail straightened out for greater balance, when running flat-out at their top speed. |
| Height: |
16 inches |
| Weight: |
24 pounds |
| Color(s): |
Red and white, black and white, tricolor (black, tan, and white), and brindle (black stripes on a background of red, with white); additional variations, include "trindle" (tricolor with brindle points), and several other colorations such as liver, shaded reds (sables), "capped" tricolors (creeping tan), and piebald marked |
| Coat: |
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| Description: |
The Basenji is a breed of hunting dog that originated in central Africa. The Basenji produces an unusual yodel-like sound, due to its unusually shaped larynx. This trait also gives the Basenji the nickname "Voiceless Dog." The Basenji has the unique properties of not barking (it makes a low, liquid ululation instead), and cleaning itself like a cat. Basenjis often stand on their hind legs, somewhat like a meerkat, by themselves or leaning on something. This behavior is observed when the dog is curious about something. |
| Temperament: |
The Basenji is alert, affectionate, energetic, and curious. It loves to play and makes a good pet, as long as it is handled regularly from an early age, and the owners are very patient. It is very intelligent. It 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-dog pets. It is usually patient, but does best with older, considerate children. The Basenji dislikes wet weather. |
| Training: |
While housebreaking a Basenji is easy, Basenjis have the reputation of being very difficult to obedience-train. The Basenji owner should locate obedience classes taught by an instructor who understands how to work with all breeds, including the Basenji. Basenjis respond well to consistency and kind but firm treatment. The trainer must be a stubborn as the dog to achieve results. Basenjis respond well to positive reinforcement, including the careful use of food treats, such as small pieces of cooked chicken gizzards. Some, but not all, Basenjis can be motivated by toys. Advice and help are available from your local dog clubs. |
| Care & Grooming: |
The Basenji is an active dog, and requires exercise. Some Basenji like to climb, and can easily get over chain wire fences. |
| Shedding: |
Light |
| Health: |
Many basenjis suffer from PRA, which causes blindness, and Fanconi's syndrome, which can cause kidney failure. Symptoms for Fanconi’s Syndrome include include excessive drinking, excessive urination, and glucose in the urine, which may lead to a misdiagnosis of diabetes. Fanconi syndrome usually presents between 4 and 8 years of age, but sometimes as early as 3 years or as late as 10 years. Fanconi syndrome is treatable and organ damage is reduced if treatment begins early. Basenji owners are advised to test their dog's urine for glucose once a month beginning at the age of 3 years. Glucose testing strips designed for human diabetics are inexpensive and available at most pharmacies. Basenjis also suffer from hypothyroidism, IPSID (immunoproliferative systemic intestinal disease), HA (hemolytic anemia), and some have umbilical hernias. Basenjis sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia, resulting in loss of mobility and arthritis-like symptoms. Malabsorption, or immunoproliferative enteropathy, is an autoimmune intestinal disease that leads to anorexia, chronic diarrhea, and even death. A special diet can improve the quality of life for afflicted dogs. The breed can also fall victim to progressive retinal atrophy (a degeneration of the retina causing blindness) and several less serious hereditary eye problems such as coloboma (a hole in the eye structure), and persistent pupillary membrane (tiny threads across the pupil). Basenjis are also sensitive to environmental and household chemicals which can cause liver problems. |
| Lifespan: |
13.6 years median |
| Litter Size: |
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