Basenji

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Basenji

Basenji Characteristics

Size:
Grooming Needs:
Exercise Needs:
Good With Dogs:
Watchdog Ability:

Basenji Breed Information

Breed Group: Hound

Weight: Male: 24; Female: 22 lbs

Height: Male: 17; Female 16 inches

Color(s): red, black, black and tan, or brindle, all with white feet, chest and tail tips; white legs, blaze, and collar optional

Overview

The Basenji was originally developed in Africa for hunting purposes. The Basenji is a sight hound, hunting by sight only. They have very strong hunting instincts that persuade them to chase after anything; they love to chase after cars. The name is pronounced Buh-SEN-jee, and they are best known for their bark: They haven't got one. The Basenji is not a barker, however they do have a distinct yodel and wail when they are excited or when hunting.

Character

The Basenji can be somewhat aloof around strangers making him a very suspicious breed. This breed is very intelligent yet independent at the same time making training quite a task. He is very alert, rambunctious and playful making him a lovely family pet, however this breed does love the outdoors and does best with acreage.

Temperament

The Basenji is a very alert and fun loving breed, however is not recommended for an inexperienced owner. This breed has the tendency to become destructive if left along for long periods of time so proper training and confinement will work best for this fault. Basenjis can be very patient and good with children, however should be socialized early to prevent the tendencies to fight with other dogs.

Care

The Basenji is much like a cat being very clean and grooming himself on occasion. This is a little to no shedding breed, however does require some grooming if the coat is to stay in good shape. An occasional brushing with a firm bristle or wire brush works best to remove dead or loose hair from the coat. The smooth coat of the Basenji is very easy to care for.

Coat

The Basenji has a very short coat, which shouldn't require much grooming. The hair should be short, fine, and somewhat harsh. The hair should not be too coarse, however should not be silky. The Basenji tends to clean himself making the coat very easy to care for and relatively clean. This breed has little to no doggy odor, and sheds very little.

Training

The Basenji should be socialized early to prevent any destruction problems if he is to be home raised, and to ensure that he will do well around children and other animals. Obedience training is a must for this energetic and very alert breed. This breed should have a variety of training methods to keep his attention, as he tends to bore quickly. Variety, consistency, and firm handling work best with the Basenji.

Activity

The Basenji being so energetic needs quite a bit of exercise. Vigorous daily walks are required as this breed has a lot of energy and can be somewhat tireless. This breed being a hunter has the stamina of such and does best with a fenced in yard. However, the fence should be planted deeply into the ground and rather high to prevent escape as this breed can be an escape artist if proper precautions are not taken.

Ask a Question Basenji Questions & Answers

QUESTION: do basenji do well with moving?

Anonymous - 2/1/2012 9:29:52 PM

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QUESTION: My three year old Basenji will bite if you touch him while sleeping, is this a sign he will not be good with small children?

Anonymous - 1/8/2012 4:30:05 PM

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QUESTION: My basenji is black and tan, she is almost 3 years old. I have noticed over the past 2 weeks the the black hair is starting to change, it looks grey, but actually close up it looks tan, and its spotty in areas. Im worried something is wrong. Is this normal?

Anonymous - 12/7/2011 11:13:46 AM

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This is very common, where the tan bleeds into the black on tri-color Basenjis. Nothing to be alarmed about, it just isn't quite as pretty when there is not a clear difference between the black and tan.

khanis - 12/12/2011 2:51:26 PM

QUESTION: I have 2 half brothers basenjis 1 year old and 7 months. They grew up together but 2 weeks ago they don't stop fighting. Next week they "ll be neutered. I know it is not enough, could you tell me what else can I do to keep them together?

Anonymous - 10/27/2011 9:40:34 PM

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Basenji is a "pack breed".. and therefore have leaders.. it is possible that one will eventually dominate, and therefore be "the leader".. at that point respect by the "loser" will take place and the constant fighting will stop.. They will still have their spats.. However the dominate of the two, will not abuse it's power for they are still family and a "pack".. I had the same situation, and they lived happily for about 12years..

Anonymous - 12/23/2011 8:46:27 AM

QUESTION: Do Basenjis get along well with other small dogs? And also, would it be a good idea to put a a male basenji with another established male dog, or would they become aggresive?

Anonymous - 9/26/2011 6:46:05 PM

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QUESTION: do basenjis like the beach,ocean,and sun?

Anonymous - 8/30/2011 7:04:15 PM

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If raised going into the water, basenjis love it. Of course, they are a lot like cats, and some NEVER like it!

khanis - 12/12/2011 2:52:14 PM

QUESTION: I have a Basenji and do they bite and do they get along with other people like other kids?

Anonymous - 8/4/2011 7:31:35 PM

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Hi, Any dog can bite if not properly raised. We have taught that you do not bite humans at any cost from the time they are small. A basenji is a very pack oriented breed and your family becomes its "pack" and they will be devoted to you and your family members.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 7:46:33 PM

QUESTION: HOW DO YOU TELL IF A BESENJI IS SICK?!?!?!

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 2:57:50 PM

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Hi, A basenji is a dog and will show sickiness like any dog. Actually, they might even be easier then most beeds. They might "talk" to you - "baroo", slap you with their feet to get your attention, etc. Compared to standard dachshunds and they can be very stoic and quiet if they aren't feeling well.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 7:51:09 PM

QUESTION: Can Basenji's travel with you?

Anonymous - 7/29/2011 5:34:45 PM

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Yes, Basenji's love to travel and be with their famlies. Any dog should be crate trained as you never know if they might have to go to the Vet's office and spend overnight in one of their cages. But a basenji can ride loose in a car just as long as the windows aren't down where they could jusmp out if they see something interesting to persue - they are a sight hound.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 7:55:27 PM

NOT THE BEST IDEA BECAUSE BASENJI'S HAVE SEPARATION PROBLEMS AND THEY WILL FLIP OUT IF THEY ARE IN A CAGE TO LONG

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 2:59:02 PM

QUESTION: Are there any health issues that are associated with the Basenji?

Anonymous - 7/11/2011 10:14:56 AM

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A well bred basenji shouldn't have hip problems. Good breeding is the key. Fanconi Syndrome (a kidney disorder) can occur but we now have a DNA test that promises to help the proper breeding combinabtion. Actually, a basenji is one of the healthier breeds. Show breeders are the ones that have been diligently breeding away from health issues because they only want to breed healthy dogs (and possible pets) for their next generation of show & breeding dogs.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 8:01:39 PM

Yes, some Basenji's have hip problems but you shouldnt worry if you take them to the doctor regularly and exercise them!.....good luck!!

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 2:50:54 PM

QUESTION: Is the Basenji good family pet?

Anonymous - 6/14/2011 11:16:19 AM

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We have had a Basenji for 15 years now and he has been an amazing pet. We had him given to us when our youngest was turning 2 and he bonded with both our children. He became protective not only of the children but of my husband and myself. He also became like a mother to the cats that we got and to the other dogs we got. I would recommend a Basenji to anyone as a family dog.

Anonymous - 6/20/2011 8:35:15 PM

QUESTION: What is the average age of a Basenji ?

Anonymous - 5/16/2011 5:35:13 AM

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Our foundation Basenji bitch was just short of 18 years old.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 7:56:27 PM

It is not at all uncommon for a basenji to reach 15 years or beyond.

Anonymous - 6/2/2011 10:58:04 AM

QUESTION: what does a basenji dog eat

Anonymous - 5/10/2011 6:16:59 PM

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Any dog should be fed a good quality dog food just as you would feed your own child good quality well balanced meals.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 8:03:15 PM

basenjis should not eat normal dog food! you should get dog food that has omega 3 or fish oil to help there coat and joints

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 2:52:20 PM

QUESTION: Where can I get a Fanconi test kit for oral testing?

Anonymous - 5/8/2011 7:26:34 PM

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Here: http://www.offa.org/dnatesting/fanconi.html

Anonymous - 6/2/2011 10:57:34 AM

QUESTION: I HAVE A BULLDOG . HE IS ALWAYS CREATING PROBLEM. WHAT CAN I DO.

Anonymous - 5/1/2011 9:25:32 AM

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It depends on the problem - if its a destructive problem, i would get your bulldog some chew toys or exercise him more like more walks and running around in the yard!

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 2:53:48 PM

QUESTION: I have a basenji/mix puppy, what is best way to house train & crate train

Anonymous - 4/2/2011 10:43:22 AM

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dont be harsh with them because they can get hurt much more than other dogs but if they pee in the house dont talk to them and go put them in their cage or right outside and ignore them for about 10 minutes

Anonymous - 7/31/2011 2:55:34 PM

QUESTION: We have a Basenji that is 14 and all of a sudden his tail went limp and is not curly anymore what does this mean?

Anonymous - 3/25/2011 10:23:25 PM

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AS a Basenji gets older, the tail will not curl as tightly-also if they do not feel well, this is a good indication.

Anonymous - 5/29/2011 7:59:15 PM

QUESTION: what are the price of basenji puppies

Anonymous - 3/21/2011 9:31:48 PM

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Typically 700-1000 for akc bred basenjis

Anonymous - 9/29/2011 5:45:45 PM

Depending on who you purchase your basenji from - a puppy mill/backyard breeder or a show breeder who only breeds for their next generation show & breeding dog and want top quality for themselves. There are always pets in every litter as all dogs are companions but not all dogs are show dogs. So you might find a basenji puppy for $300 up to $1,000 + depending on who and where you purchase.

dpbasenjis - 8/11/2011 8:07:56 PM

QUESTION: Im an avid mountain biker and have a couple friends who take there dogs with them on rides. Dogs will never make an excuse to no go like your buddies do and stay right with you. I really like this breed of dog. How would a basenji be in on a mountain bike ride through a forest without a leash?

Anonymous - 2/23/2011 9:06:28 AM

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you dont want to let a basenji off their leash - if they see a squirrel they will go for it, they are hunting dogs.

Anonymous - 4/30/2011 12:20:59 PM

My basenji is 6 now and is nearly 100% dependable on the leash. When he was younger, even with a remote collar, there were times he would dart off with nothing to be done; he has even attempted to swim across the Potomac river after a set of ducks. I would never have him off leash in a scenario where bolting off could cause a hazard to his health. Basenjis are severely independent, and off leash our basenji likes to roam away from us sometimes (almost never out of eyesight) and will catch up a few minutes later. Definitely get a remote collar and remember that your basenji will never be 100% trained off leash. Always be on your guard!

Anonymous - 3/14/2011 12:26:42 AM

I have a 2 year old Basenji who, with consistant training, is beginning to not need a leash when we go out with her. However, because the Basenji is a sight hound, it can really depend from dog to dog. I would recommend buy a shock collar... we have had great luck with ours. We have set ours on the lowest setting, which has only a very small shock and a beep and it is a great way to train a basenji to stay near you or to stay in its boundries. Our's will not leave the yard when she has hers on. This could be a good option to you while you are mountain biking because if the dog has the collar on and you carry the remote around your neck, you can keep the dog close to you. Eventually, after working consistantly with a collar like this, your dog may even get to the point of being able to go without the collar completely.

Anonymous - 3/4/2011 3:13:17 PM

QUESTION: Can you tell me if the Basenji will get along with cats and small dogs?

Anonymous - 2/17/2011 3:55:58 PM

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My basenji loved her cat - they would chase each other through the house and sleep together on the couch. They would frequently clean each other and if the cat got outside the basenji would wrangle him in and watch over him until we came out to get him. He was an indoor cat who lived to be 17 years old. My basenji was 7 when the cat died it broke my basenjis heart. He was her best friend besides my so. Basenjis are the coolest dogs of all breeds and are quite the jokesters always trying to make you laugh

Anonymous - 10/24/2011 11:33:45 PM

If Basenji's are raised with them, but they do like to chase them once in awhile, but I have cats and a besinji and they do get along.

Anonymous - 2/26/2011 9:18:34 PM

QUESTION: I live in Florida and i was considering getting a basenji would it be to hot in the summer for this breed or would it do well? Temperatures are typically 85-95 degrees fahrenheit, during the summer.

Anonymous - 1/26/2011 10:42:31 PM

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Basenjis mostly seem to enjoy warmer weather, and the temperatures you mention aren't extreme at all. However - basenjis are not for everyone -- and definitely not for the first-time dog owner! Do your homework: check out the success stories/horror stories on the basenji rescue and transport website to get a better idea of what to expect... they are small, but quite strong-willed - and can be amazingly destructive if not well-exercised...

Anonymous - 2/2/2011 2:52:55 PM

QUESTION: we currently have a dog at the house and i was wondering if the basenji would do fine with our dog now?

Anonymous - 11/25/2010 3:14:32 AM

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Basenjis have a breed tendency to be more shy around other dogs; however, if the basenji is well socialized, they LOVE other dogs. I have a 2 yr old Basenji and we began socailizing her and taking her to puppy play dates and to places known to have a lot of dogs around and she absolutely ADORES other dogs.

Anonymous - 3/4/2011 3:16:08 PM

My family's basenji is ridiculously sweet around other dogs. Our's has been described as a "pansy" before so I'm not sure if he's an exception. He'll let other dogs drink and eat from his bowls and just wait patiently.

Anonymous - 2/8/2011 10:11:32 PM

Every dog is an individual, but basenjis are rather notorious for not getting along with other dogs. If you've done your homework about the breed and are sure this somewhat-challenging breed is a good fit, it would probably be best to start with a pup, OR an adult rescue you've checked for compatability with your dog. Opposite-sex pairings have a better chance of success.

Anonymous - 2/2/2011 3:00:58 PM

Hi, I have 3 dogs and 2 of them are Basenjis. I heard that if you get opposite genders then the dogs behave much better. (as long as they are spayed and neutered) I think that if you get a basenji puppy then they should do fine because the puppy will think the other dog is his parent. One of my basenjis is a MAJOR alfa dog even though she was the runt of her litter and the other dog we have is her mother. We got a Smooth Collie puppy about 2 years ago and my dogs (even the alfa dog) took to her fine. But its funny, we were babysitting a lab puppy for a while and my basenjis couldn't stand it. I hope I helped you:)

Anonymous - 1/15/2011 11:08:55 AM

QUESTION: I live in the north and thinking of getting a Basenfi for the kids for XMAS. Do you think its to cold up here for it?

Anonymous - 11/14/2010 1:41:54 PM

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Basenjis are perfectly fine in the snow/cold weather. If you are still concerned, get a pet coat for your dog.

Anonymous - 9/29/2011 5:47:24 PM

I live in WI and own a Basenji. We have a coat for her when she goes outside in the winter and she is absolutely fine. However, she only goes out to go potty. I don't think they would do well in the cold if left out for an extended time.

Anonymous - 3/4/2011 3:17:50 PM

I live in Iowa and owned a basengi. We kept our dog inside most of the time. Their ears are prone to frost bite so as long as they aren't outside for an excessive amount of time it should be fine. Plus you can always get cute doggy coats for the winter. Basengis aren't always good with younger kids (though the one we had was), so make sure you do some more research before buying one.

Anonymous - 11/15/2010 3:08:10 PM

QUESTION: I adopted a Basenji Mix from the SPCA, and it's getting cold where I live. Does this little pup need a sweater in or outside?

Anonymous - 10/12/2010 6:58:56 AM

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Depends on where you live and the dog. Some find it cold from 10 degrees Celsius, while others can tough it out longer as some grow a partial winter coat. A happy basenji is a warm basenji. Mine would wear a coat in the spring.

Anonymous - 10/25/2010 12:10:54 PM

QUESTION: Do they not track by scent at all?

Anonymous - 9/21/2010 10:46:13 PM

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They track by both scent and eyesight, although they are catergorized as sight hounds

Anonymous - 9/29/2011 5:47:55 PM

Basenjis have an excellent sense of smell -- so much so, that until fairly recently, they were classed as BOTH sight and scent hounds. I believe the change in classification was primarily to allow them to compete in racing and lure-coursing events with the other hound groups. (They have a high prey-drive, and they love to run!)

Anonymous - 2/2/2011 3:06:40 PM

Yes they do. In fact, they actually see whatever it is moving and then they use the sent to identify it. They use both. Sight is the main one however.

Anonymous - 10/24/2010 7:36:08 PM

If you are looking for Basenji puppies for sale from reputable Basenji breeders or to adopt a Basenji from a Basenji rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Basenji puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Basenji puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.