The Basenji Dog Facts

The Basenji Dog Facts

The Basenji dog is a wonderfully unique breed of dog. Handsome, muscular and powerful, he is also known as the African Barkless Dog, Lagos Bush Dogs or Congo Terriers. They may not bark, but they do create unique noises from their throats that from a throaty crow to a keening wail made when they are feeling lonely or sad.

Origin and History:

The Basenji originates from central Africa – Zaire and the Congo it is believed. They were bred from pariah dogs and, although it cannot be substantiated, thought to have been initially bred for the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. We know from historical records that pharaohs were given Basenji as gifts.

Eventually, the Basenji slowly moved down towards central Africa. They were used by the African people to catch reed rats in the Congo area. These rats would eat the people’s food supplies and so a good hunting dog was needed. The Basenji was used to point, drive and retrieve game into nets, as well as tracking wounded prey.

The breed became better known during the late 19th century when an explorer took a pair of these dogs back to England with them in 1895. However, these dogs soon died.

The breed was reintroduced into England during the 1930’s. This was around the same time when a Mrs. Byron Rodgers brought a pair into America. Here, a litter of puppies were born but except for the eldest male, all died from distemper. A bitch named Congo was imported in 1941 by Alexander Phemster. From these two came a successful litter of puppies. Soon, others were imported from England and Canada, and became extremely popular.

Breed Standard:

The head of a Basenji should be wedge-shaped with dark hazel almond eyes, showing his wonderful personality and mischievousness. He should have a wrinkled brow. Ears should be short and erect, slightly hooded and set forward upon the head.

The neck of a Basenji is arched, leading into relaxed shoulders and a medium sized chest. The obvious waist size gives a Basenji that dignified and elegant look to him. Forelegs and hindquarters should be straight, powerful and leading to small, narrow feet. Tails can be single or doubled curled over the back.

The most common colours of their coats are black, red, and black and tan. The chest, feet and tips of the tails are nearly always white. Coats are short, silky and smooth. In colder countries, some Basenji has coarser coats.

The average height and weight of a male Basenji dog is 16 – 17 inches (41 – 43 cm) and 22 – 26 pounds (10 – 12kg). Bitches are 15 – 16 inches (38 – 41 cm) and 20 – 25 pounds (9 – 11kg).

Personality:

The Basenji is a friendly dog, but can be somewhat aloof with strangers. Highly intelligent, independent and affectionate, Basenjis’ are very playful. In addition to this, they can be very destructive – chewing remotes, clothes etc. Owners will soon learn to put all clothes in the hampers with a Basenji around.

Basenji does not make good companions with cats – they prefer to chase them around the garden. As long as they are well socialised and handled from an early age, the Basenji can make a great companion or family pet. They will get on great with children as long as they know who is boss.

Due to their high energy levels, the Basenji would not be suited for those families living in apartments. They need a large fenced-in garden and lots of walks. Due to their inquisitive nature, it is recommended that they should stay on the lead.

Health Issues:

Unfortunately, there are several health issues that plague the Basenji. One of these is Fanconi's syndrome, a dysfunction of the proximal kidney tubules. Others include Pyruvate kinase deficiency and Lymphagectasia.

Kennel Clubs:

The Basenji was recognised in the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1944.

http://www.akc.org/breeds/basenji/