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

Basenji Calorie Calculator

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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.

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

Breed Club: www.basenjiclub.com

Rescue Link: www.basenjiclub.com/?q=node/3