Nickname        : The Bark-less Dog

Breed Origins : Egypt & Central Africa -Zaire and the Congo. Dates back to antiquity

Breed usage     : Hunting Small Game - monkeys, small cats and small antelopes

Dog Weight      : 21 - 24 Pounds

Dog Height       : 16 to 17 inches to the shoulder

History
Basenji, the famous bark-less dog, comes from Africa and is a dog of medium size, lightly built and fine boned with a wrinkled forehead, erect ears and a curly tail which sits on it’s back. This dog is also known by the other names of Zande dog, Congo dog or Congo terrier. The Basenji was bred originally to drive game up trees (monkeys and small cats). They were also used to also chase prey such as small antelopes into hunting nets or out into the open where their quarry could be shot with a gun or a bow and arrow. It’s origins can be dated back for at least 5000 years to the Ancient World. It is classified as one of the Hound Dogs Group.
Basenji Hound belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Sighthounds or Gazehounds, which specialise in hunting its quarry by sight rather than scent. All of the Sighthound breeds originated in the Middle East, Africa and Southwest Asia. It wasn’t until the mid 1500’s that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Sighthounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. Sighthounds have extremely good vision. They also have a long jaw and lengthy neck which assists them in sighting their quarry. Their lean muscular body, deep chest and long powerful legs essential assets when following any fast and agile prey. Sighthounds also have distinctive feet with elongated middle toes that make the foot appear longer and helps with their firm footing. Their long stride, powerful chest and lungs and agile bodies make it possible for sight hounds to chase and kill their quarry. As a pet the Basenji Hound is feisty, fastidious, playful and inquisitive. The strong instinct to chase and trail requires an excellent training program and firm control.
The Pharaohs of Egypt kept Basenji Hound and references to the Basenji’s ancestors appear as hieroglyphics and are also found engraved in cuneiform ( written in wedge-shaped characters) on ancient pillars and tablets. The breed was discovered, however, by the Western civilisation on the African Congo with the Pygmy tribe of hunters in the Zande area of Africa. This explains the other names of Zande dog, Congo dog or Congo terrier that the Basenji was known by. The name Basenji, or “bush thing,” was eventually chosen reflecting their African heritage. The pygmies and other African natives used the Basenji as a pack dog. As the dogs were ‘ bark-less’ often wore large bells around their necks which assisted in the task of driving quarry into nets.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colours information
  The Basenji’s coat is short, sleek & fine. The colour is normally pure black & white, red & white, black tan & white with tan pips & mask, black, tan & white. Brindle, red background with black stripes. The white should be on feet, chest & tail tip. White legs, blaze & white collar optional.

• Temperament and Character
  These dogs are definitely not mute and make an amazing variety of noises which can sound like a mixture between a chortle, howl, shriek and yodel! Just to dispel the illusion even further the Basenji will occasionally bark - similar to a fox bark but just one or two at a time. The Basenji is elegant and graceful and a very independent breed of dog. They are feisty, fastidious, playful, inquisitive, intelligent, stubborn, and reserved. This breed of dog is easily house trained and completely lacks any doggy smell. Its hunting roots are very evident, as it loves to chase and trail.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Basenji, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Basenji can include:
  • Hip and Elbow Dysplasia (abnormal development of joints referred to as CHD - Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia)
  • Fanconi syndrome
  • Basenji enteropathy
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is 14 - 16 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Basenji’s require minimal grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.

• Living conditions and Exercise Requirements
  The Basenji dogs and puppies are extremely active and require a substantial amount of exercise. It can live outdoors only in temperate climates and generally does best as an indoor dog with access to a yard.