Basenji - Current

General Information

Before you consider any dog breed you need to establish the reasons why you want to purchase a dog. Once you have your criteria I suggest that you attend a dog show where you will be able to talk to breeders of many breeds present. Talking to breeders and owners will provide you a clearer understanding of the needs of the dog breed you are interested in. What it was bred for will often give a clue to its temperament, characteristics and exercise needs.

So what about Basenjis?

The Basenji is not the breed for everyone and you should do an exhaustive study into the breed to ensure that one will meet your lifestyle.

This Basenji is a primitive breed, the oldest dog breed. It is very feline in nature. The breed has inherent hunting and survival instincts, is wilful, highly intelligent, and very much have minds of their own. They are generally not a breed that you take to the park, allow off lead, throw a ball or stick and expect the Basenji to bring it back to you. They love to chase but would much rather someone go pick up the ball and throw it again than retrieve it. Its Australian counterpart would be the Dingo although the Basenji is from much more ancient lineage and not genetically related.

Basenjis more socialisation that other breeds and training is on-going. They can be very destructive if bored (as can many dogs) and even though they do not bark they can be very noisy if they so wish normally when they want something and are unable to get it.

Although there is some inaccurate information in this article; why Basenjis do not bark is one example and yes they can climb trees and certain types of fences if they have the urge to. However, paling or colourbond fences are usually too hard even for this breed, this is an interesting article to start with.

http://primitivedogs.com/basenji-dog-characteristics-traits/

Unlike other dog breeds and because of their primitive, wild-dog nature Basenjis only have one season per year. Estrus in the southern hemisphere is around March/April/May Easter sometimes earlier. More often than not puppies are generally born in late May/June/July. They commence going to new homes no sooner than at 8 weeks old.

You should research this breed fully; like all breeds there are pros and cons and you need to ensure that the Basenji will be a breed that matches your lifestyle. Information can be found on my website about health concerns, the breed is exceptionally healthy and is long lived - Basenjis generally live to 15-17 years. My website also outlines what is included with a puppy from Tambuzi.

Following are some videos that you might find interesting making note that Basenjis are not hypoallergenic as mentioned once clip although their fur is short and single coated