Basenji - Purebred
Dogs and Puppies

Basenji

This dog breed is known by many names - Belgian Congo Dog, Congo Bush Dog, Bongo Terrier, Zande Dog, and Congo Terrier.

While it is true that these dogs do not "really bark"like other dogs, they are great mimics, and can learn to easily mimic barks if raised among barking dogs.

Their wrinkled head is proudly carried on a well arched neck and the tail is set high and curled. Elegant and graceful, their whole demeanor is one of poise and alertness.

Their balanced structure and smooth musculature enables them to move with ease and agility and they hunt by both sight and scent. This is a small, short haired hunting dog from Africa.

These dogs have a number of appealing features, including their high set curly tail lying over the back, a cute wrinkled forehead that gives them a worried, concerned look and a habit of washing themselves in a manner very similar to a cat.

Watch these dogs hanging out

The wrinkled forehead, tightly curled tail, and swift, effortless gait (resembling a racehorse trotting full out) are typical of the breed. They are also extremely smart dogs - they excel at mentally and physically challenging activities. An intelligent, independent, but affectionate and alert breed, this breed can be quite aloof with strangers. Behavior and temperament-wise they have a lot of the same qualities as cats especially when it comes to personal grooming themselves. They even wash themselves with their paws. The ideal height for the male Basenji is 17 inches at the shoulder while the female is usually around 16 inches in height. The ideal weight is 24 pounds for the male and 21 pounds for a female. They are known as a mischievous and good-humored breed of dog, not above testing the limits of its owner or environment just for fun. They are also very fast runners, tireless, fleet-footed, and loves to take regular walks and runs. They are also great climbers so keep this breed on a leash whenever you are not in a secured and fenced area. They will do well in an apartment or small home environment if exercised sufficiently. They do really well especially with two or three other dogs of the same breed. Generally speaking, they will not fight among themselves and provide each other great company.

Country of origin: Egypt
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Colors: Copper, red, black and tan, black, brindle
Known health problems: Fanconi's syndrome (kidney problems), progressive retinal atrophy, intestinal problems, eye problems
Famous Basenji's: The title character of Good-bye, My Lady, by James H. Street, is a Basenji

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