Basenji Information

Background

The Basenji, Africa's barkless dog, has a history that dates back to at least 3600 BC. Paintings, carvings and hieroglyphics prove that the Basenji existed in the early days of the Pharaohs, and in fact the breed is older than the Pyramids themselves.

It was not until 1895 that Western civilization discovered the Basenji in the Congo regions being used by the various tribes as a hunting dog. Even today, they are highly prized possessions, as without these little dogs the natives lose their prestige as hunters.

In America and Canada, the Basenji is regarded as a top hunting dog, being swift, bold and possessed of a keen sense of hearing and smell.

Personality

Although the Basenji is referred to as “The Barkless Dog” of Africa, they are not mute. In fact the Basenji has an amazing vocabulary of sounds, which are usually uttered when the dog is happy, playing, welcoming their owner home, or caught in the act of some mischievous devilment. The Basenji vocalisation is a mixture between a chortle and a yodel.

The Basenji is short-coated, small and lightly built. It is a pleasure to note the distinctive Basenji gait. When they walk slowly they are reminiscent of a trotting horse and their fast gait is like that of a Gazelle. When sad, they have been known to cry real tears.

Basenjis come in four colours – red and white, black and tan and white (tri-colour), black and white, and brindle. All colours should have white tail tips, white feet and white chest. When alert with upright ears pricked forward, a fine profuse wrinkle should appear on the forehead.

The Basenji is unique amongst domestic dogs, having a similar reproductive cycle to a wild dog. Once a year the bitches come into season as the nights start to cool in autumn.

Basenjis are not slavish in their devotion. However, they are extremely affectionate to their family, but can sometimes be aloof with strangers.

Lifespan

When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. Basenjis live from between 12 to 16 years of age.

Size and Weight

Height at shoulder:

Dogs 43 cms (17 ins) Bitches 40 cms (16 ins)

Weight:

Dogs: 11 kgs (24 lbs) Bitches: 9.5 kgs (21lbs)

Compatibility with Other Pets

Most Basenjis are good with children and are not averse to sharing their life with other pets they grow up with.