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Basenji: Personality, Exercise, Health
Group: Southern,
AKC Hound
Also known as:
African Bush Dog, African Barkless Dog, Ango Angari,
Avuvi, Congo Dog, Zande Dog, The Jumping Up And
Down Dog.
AKC Ranking: 84
About
Basenji
History
of the Breed
The Basenji is one of the
most ancient dog breeds. Originating on the
continent of Africa, it has been venerated
by humans for thousands of years. Basenjis
can be seen on steles in the tombs of Egyptian
pharaohs.
Description of the
Dog
Basenji are small, square,
unusual, elegant, athletic dogs, with a smooth
silky, lustrous, coat of copper, red, black
and tan, black and brindle, usually with white
feet and white on the chest and tip of the
tail.
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Individuals may also sport a white
facial blaze, white legs and/or a white collar.
The back is level; the legs are long, and the forehead
is furrowed with wrinkles, giving it a worried look.
The ears are straight and open in the front and
its tail is set high and curls up over and slightly
to either side of the back. Its eyes are small and
almond shaped. Its thighs are muscular, and it has
a flat skull.
Height
Dogs 16-17 inches (41-43 cm.)
Bitches 15-16 inches (38-41 cm.)
Weight
Dogs 22-26 pounds (10-12 kg.)
Bitches 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg.)
Personality
Temperament of the Breed
The Basenji is alert, proud, independent,
affectionate, demanding, energetic, playful, intelligent,
charming, eager to please and curious. They can
be reserved with strangers 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 dislikes wet weather.
They like to chew, so giving them lots of toys of
their own would be a good idea. The breed likes
to climb and can easily get over chain wire fences.
It does not bark and makes a low, liquid ululation
instead. It can be described as speedy, frisky,
tireless at play and teasing the owner into play.
Activity
Level
Exercise Need
The Basenji needs vigorous daily
exercise. They have a tendency to become fat and
lazy unless the owner is consistent about it. This
breed needs a long daily walk.
Basenjis are highly intelligent
and learn quickly, but they also have a cat-like
independence and "self-motivation" which
can make them somewhat casual about obedience. They
respond well to training but their strong desire
to play can lead to behavior problems if left alone.
Living Conditions
The Basenji will do okay in an
apartment if it gets enough exercise. It is very
active indoors and a small yard will do. The Basenji
is happiest when it is kept with two or three other
Basenji.
Grooming
The Basenji washes itself with
its paws, sheds little to no hair and has no doggie
smell, so very little grooming (minimal brushing
and bathing) is needed. This is a good dog for people
with allergies.
Health
Problems
This breed is prone to Fanconi's
syndrome (kidney problems), genetic Hemolytic Anemia,
hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, malabsorption,
anorexia, diarrhea, persistent pupillary membrane
and eye problems.
Life Expectancy: About
10-12 years
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Breed Club: www.basenjiclub.com
Rescue Link: www.basenjiclub.com/?q=node/3
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