Breed History: 

The Basenji, also known as the Congo Dog, has origins dating back over 5,000 years, with early depictions found in ancient Egyptian tombs and wall drawings. It was introduced to Europe in 1934, where English breeders refined the breed before exporting it worldwide. In Africa, the Basenji serves as a skilled guide in forests, alerting humans to approaching dangers, and is widely used in pack hunting for small game.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Breed Appearance: 

The Basenji is a small, elegant, and athletic breed, similar in size to a fox terrier, with a smooth, shiny coat that can be copper, red, black and tan, or black and brindle. They typically have white feet, chest markings, and a white tip on their tail, and some individuals may display a white facial blaze, white legs, or a white collar. Their back is level, their legs are long, and they have a furrowed forehead. The breed also has straight, open ears and a high-set tail that curls over its back. 

Unlike most dogs, Basenjis don’t bark but can produce various vocalizations such as yodels, howls, growls, or crows, depending on their mood. 

Breed Type - Family/guard: 

The Basenji makes a good family companion, particularly with older, considerate children, due to its affectionate and playful nature. However, it may not be the best choice for families with non-canine pets, as it tend to be reserved around strangers and can be aloof. 

As a guard dog, the Basenji’s alertness and intelligence make it capable of noticing changes in its environment, but its reserved nature means it won’t necessarily be aggressive with strangers. Instead, it may simply remain watchful, making it more passive.

Training:

Basenjis require patience, consistent training and early socialization. Without proper, positive guidance, they can become quite stubborn.

Health & Care:

The Basenji is prone to Fanconi's syndrome (kidney problems), which must be treated the moment the symptoms are noticed. Also, they are susceptible to progressive retinal atrophy, and intestinal, and eye problems.

Living Condition:

The Basenji will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. It is very active indoors and a small yard will do. The Basenji is happiest when it is kept with two or three other Basenji; they will not fight among themselves.

Exercise:

The Basenji need vigorous exercising as they tend to become fat, they need long walks daily.

Grooming:

The Basenji washes itself like a cat and has no doggie smell, so very little grooming is needed. This is a good dog for people with allergies. This breed sheds little to no hair.

Advantages:

• Exceptionally Loyal

• Low Barking

• High intelligence

• Low Maintenance Grooming

Disadvantages:

• Can be independent and stubborn

• Not ideal with other pets

• Reserved around strangers

• Escape artists