Basenji
Group: Hound
Lifespan: 10-12 Years
Pups per Litter: 4-6
Average Weight: 20-26 lbs.
Average Height: 15-17 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: High
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs 
Other Animals
History
The Basenji is of the more rarely recognized breeds originating in Africa. They are a hunting dog known for not being able to bark! The sound that they make is compared to that of a yodel because they have a larynx that is shaped differently then the other dog breeds therefore giving them this ability to make odd sounds such as squealing or howling. They have been sighted in drawings on the walls of tombs in Egypt which date back to over five thousand years ago. They were distributed by breeders in the 1930’s throughout Europe and the world. They are also called the Congo Dog, the African Bush Dog, African Barkless Dog and the Zande Dog.
Traits
The Basenji has trait’s that are quite similar to that of a cat. They are very curious and alert. They are a breed of dog that need to be around people as much as possible when puppies as they can be a bit anti social as an adult if this doesn’t happen. The Basenji grows attached to very few and are stand offish with strangers. This breed is a very clever dog and they are extremely energetic and affectionate. They are known for not liking wet weather and also for chewing, so they need to have a constant availability to toys or will do with what is around the house! They are not the most tolerant breed of dog so young children and other pets are not the best to surround the Basenji.
Appearance
Weighing in at around 20-26 lbs (9-12 kgs) and averaging between 15-17 inches high, the Basenji is a tiny athlete! They have a muscular little body and run like that of a horses gait. They have a variety of coat colours including black and tan, red, brindle or copper all of which will have a white chest, legs and feet. They have a constant worry look to their face as their forehead is all wrinkles. Their eyes are small and dark, and their ears are perked up and pointed forward. The tail is curled until it touches the lower back of the dog. Some people say that they resemble small deers! As most other breeds of dogs come into their heat about twice a year, depending on the breed of course, the Basenji only comes into heat once a year!
Health
The Basenji is prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy and some intestinal problems. They are also prone to a disease called Fanconi’s syndrome, which is a type of kidney problem and when symptoms of this arise, they need to be addressed and treated by your veterinarian immediately.
Training
The Basenji are an energetic breed that needs quite a bit of exercise. Daily walks and preferably an area to take the off leash to run would be ideal for this breed. If they don’t get the amount of exercise needed daily, then they will become overweight. They love to please their owners so they are easy dogs to train as long as the owner is consistent and firm.
Care
The Basenji is compared to the cleanliness of a cat. They clean themselves like cats do and they don’t have the dog smell to them. They shed a very small amount of fur, so would be good for people that have allergies! Brushing every once in a while to take away dead fur and bathing whenever the owner thinks is necessary is perfect for this dog as they are easy to maintain.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Hound Group. They are great for people that have the time to socialize this breed and give it the attention it needs. The Basenji would do great in a family that has multiple Basenjis as they get along very well with their own breed. They are good apartment dogs as long as they are exercised properly. The average lifespan of a Basenji is about 10-12 years. They have about 4-6 pups per litter. When obtaining a baby Basenji, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/basenji/index.cfm Basenji AKC Standards
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basenji Basenji information
http://www.dobreedinfo.com/basenji.htm Basenji breed information
http://www.basenjirescue.org/DOGS/default.htm Basenji Rescue
http://www.basenji.org Basenji Club of America
