Basenji Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Basenji?

Basenjis are an ancient breed of dog that dates back all the way to the Egyptians. They are also referred back to tribes within the Congo where they'd typically be used for hunting purposes.

For those tribes in the Congo, the Basenji would run in silent packs, wearing bells that would alert their owners to their whereabouts within the jungle. The Basenji name came from a Mrs Burn back in England in 1936. The breed was referred to prior as the Congo dog, or Congo Terrier, and would eventually be named Basenji, which meant 'dog of the bush'.

Several Basenji dogs would be imported to the United States from Zaire, which would influence the gene pool and added the brindle colour patterns found in a lot of the Basenjis in the West.

Who are Basenji dogs best for?

The Basenji breed is a loveable dog, and due to its size, it tends to be fairly convenient for households and homeowners who have the space. However, it might not be the best option if you live in an apartment.

If you want a dog that's got a simple care routine when it comes to grooming, then this breed is certainly the right one for you. They're great watchdogs, and they're easy to house train if you've got a puppy.

How much grooming does a Basenji need?

It's interesting to watch the Basenji dog breed as it conducts catlike grooming habits to keep itself clean. You'll likely need to give this breed of dog a bath every few months to keep them clean, especially if they go off the lead whilst walking.

Many dog breeds shed, even those that are hypoallergenic. The hair of this breed is fairly short, so it's not necessarily something you'll notice as much around the house in comparison to others.

Their coats come in a variety of colours from red to black, black and tan or brindle. They'll also likely have white markings, providing a beautiful appearance when groomed. Originating from Pariah dogs, their tightly curled tail is a feature that Pariahs have.

Do Basenji bark much?

Most dogs will have a tendency to bark, some more than others. However, if you're looking for a dog breed that has a party trick, Basenjis don't bark; they yodel!

The sounds they make are similar to yodelling and will often defy human commands to stop, so expect a bit of whining and screaming from time to time. However, a barkless dog is rare, so this might be a benefit for some.

Do Basenji bite?

Dogs are pack creatures by habit, and despite them being house-trained, it's a genetically inherent trait that most will have. They have a chain of command, which is why you need to enforce your dominance at the beginning, like with all dogs.

Biting can happen if you're not being stern with the rules from the beginning. Basenjis, like other dogs, will take over the leadership role if you don't show firmness in your actions. Obedience training is required and should begin from the puppy stages and formally from six to eight months of age.

What is the temperament & personality of a Basenji?

As a temperament, the Basenji dog is an affectionate dog and therefore settles well within any family household. They're good with other dogs, especially if they've been socialised with them from a young age.

You may find that if you have other Basenjis, then you may get a bit of friction, but nothing that would be a serious concern. According to the American kennel club, they are catlike, so you'll find them climbing up to high places and are often fairly quiet.

Basenjis are active dogs, so they need a good run around. They'll love any agility courses, and they're great family dogs.

What is the weight & size of a Basenji?

Basenjis are a small hound type, and while they are hunting dogs, they're small in stature compared to others. They range in height from 40 to 43cm, so they're within the small to medium-sized club.

They typically weigh between 10 to 11 kilograms.

How much training does a Basenji need?

According to a lot of Basenji dog breed information that's out there, early socialisation is key, as well as attending puppy classes where possible.

The breed is eager to learn and will benefit from the mental stimulation that training can provide, especially when they've got lots of energy to burn. They're also an intelligent breed, so you're likely going to get a lot out of them.

A lot of dogs lose interest sometimes during training, so don't get disheartened if they don't get a trick or command straight away. Just like other dogs, they need a bit of time.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Basenji?

We all want our pets to live forever, but alas, it's not to be. However, you can help them live a long and happy life if you're keeping up with any potential health issues.

Basenjis are primitive dogs genetically, so they're a fairly healthy breed as a result. However, there are a number of health disorders that are prone to occur with this barkless dog. These are;

Hypothyroidism - an inflammatory bowel disease.

Canine Hip Dysplasia - A common occurrence with many dogs.

Fanconi Syndrome - A kidney disorder.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy - Another common health issue for some dogs.

It's good to maintain regular health screenings and avoid anything that could cause these problems.

What is the lifespan of a Basenji?

The Basenji breed can live between twelve to sixteen years, depending on how healthy they are. It's worth looking at the Basenji club for advice on how to maintain their health and well-being for years to come.

This lifespan is a fairly average one for most dogs, so you'll have many years of love and fun to enjoy with this breed.

How much should you feed a Basenji?

When feeding a Basenji puppy, it's best to provide high-quality dog food. This could be commercially manufactured or home-prepared. It should be appropriate and adapt to the dog's age (puppy, adult, etc.)

Some Basenjis, like other dog breeds, can be prone to weight gain, so it's important to be wary of how much you're giving them as they get older. There should always be clean, fresh water available to keep them hydrated!

What is the price of a Basenji in Australia?

Domestic dogs like the Basenji are affordable in comparison to other sought after puppies that are more expensive due to their Instagrammable appearance.

You'll likely find a Basenji puppy for $500+. Be sure to check and do your research when it comes to Basenji breeders. You may be expected to go on a waiting list in some cases.