Basenji

This African dog, resembling a fox and ranging from small to medium in size, has a unique curly tail and a wrinkled forehead, along with a shiny, sleek coat. They are quick and have upright ears that were useful for spotting prey in dense bushes during their hunting days. (These ears may also help them cool down.) Basenjis are clever, energetic, and entertaining, making them great pets—if you can match their energy, of course!

Quick Info

Size
Small
Colours
Red and white; black and white; black, tan, and white; brindle; brindle and white; tricolor
Lifespan
12 to 16 years
Height
16 to 17 inches
Type
Sighthound
Hypoallergenic
yes
Weight
21 to 24 pounds
Family

Personality

Picture a dog that resembles a cat: the Basenji is a smart, headstrong, self-reliant, and somewhat shy breed. They enjoy chasing and tracking, similar to a cat, and need regular exercise and mental challenges. Rather than barking, they make sounds like yodels, howls, and shrieks, and sometimes produce a funny "fox bark." They generally get along with other dogs, but they may not always be friendly with fellow Basenjis.

History

The Basenji, a breed whose name translates to "bush thing," is one of the oldest dog breeds. It was found in the Congo, where Pygmy hunters used these dogs to help catch animals by driving them into nets. Basenjis made their way to the United States in the 1930s. The 1956 movie Goodbye My Lady showcased a Basenji, boosting the breed's popularity significantly.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owner for a Basenji is someone who is energetic, calm, and knowledgeable about dogs. They need to be prepared to give the dog lots of exercise and use positive training methods. A safe yard is important, along with providing consistent mental challenges, and they should understand and value the dog’s independent spirit.

Exercise Needs

The Basenji breed was initially developed for hunting in challenging landscapes, so they require daily exercise and have lots of energy. Regular walks are ideal for them since they have a strong instinct to chase and investigate, and they often ignore calls to return. Their impressive ability to solve problems means they enjoy toys that dispense food, engaging games, and activities that involve their sense of smell, which help keep both their minds and bodies active.

Space Requirements

These pets don't require a lot of room, but they enjoy a snug home with a window to watch their surroundings. They need plenty of exercise, whether it's on a leash or in a secure yard that can't be escaped. These clever little escape artists can scale fences and trees, so it's crucial to keep an eye on them when they're outside.

Training

Basenjis are smart and quick-witted dogs, but they usually think that regular training is not for them. With skill, patience, and a touch of reverse psychology to motivate them, these dogs can learn almost anything. They are great at agility and can impress with what they can do. Still, you can’t always count on them to obey, especially when called back. Just like a baby who is teething, they enjoy chewing and nibbling, so it’s essential to give them plenty of appropriate things to chew on to satisfy these instincts.

Grooming

The Basenji dog takes care of its own grooming, which saves owners from high grooming costs. Their coat is short, smooth, and delicate. You can assist them by using a glove to wipe them down weekly to get rid of loose fur. It’s also a good idea to check their ears and nails from time to time.

Suitability for Family Life

The Basenji is a unique dog breed that does well in households without small kids or with older, mature children.

Did You know?

The Basenji is likely the oldest dog breed on the planet. Its name comes from the Ituri rainforest tribes in Africa, who referred to them as Basenchi, which translates to “bush thing.”

Similar Breeds

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Need to be aware of potential health issues
Enjoys active daily walks
Medium dog
Minimum drool
Requires grooming
Quiet dog
Welcomes everyone happily