Basenji

Also known as: Afican Barkless Dog, African Bush Dog

Breed origin: Africa
Original purpose: Hunting dog.

AKC recognized: 1944
AKC group: Hound

Size: Weight: males around 24 lbs; females around 22 lbs
Size: Height: males around 17 inches; females around 16 inches

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Color: Chestnut red; pure black; tricolor (pure black and chestnut red); or brindle (black stripes on a background of chestnut red); all with white feet, chest and tail tip.

Life span: 12 to 17 years.

General characteristics/temperament: Basenjis are intelligent, agile, elegant, independent, but affectionate and alert. They are known for their fastidious habits and for being full of play and activity. Often described as being cat-like, they are independent and can be aloof with strangers. The Basenji is commonly known as the "barkless dog," but when excited, he makes a noise that sounds like a yodel. They like to climb and can easily get over chain-link fences.

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Good with cats? No

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Energy/Activity Level: High

Suitable canine sports/activities: lure coursing, tracking, conformation, obedience, agility

Grooming requirement: Minimal grooming required. Basenjis are considered a low-shedding breed, will clean themselves in a cat-like manner, and also lack the typical "doggy" odor.

Known health problems: Fanconi Syndrome, immunoproliferative small intestinal disease, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, umbilical hernias.

Additional photos of Basenji

Basenjis (A Complete Pet Owner's Manual)
By Mary Lou Kenworthy
Published in 2006
96 pages

Basenji (A Comprehensive Owner's Guide)
By Juliette Cunliffe
Published in 2005
155 pages

The Complete Basenji
By Elspet Ford
Published in 1993
160 pages

The Basenji Out of Africa toYou, Revised Edition: A New Look
By Susan Coe
Published in 2000
256 pages

The Secondhand Basenji Handbook
By Patrick, J. Cotter
Published in 1996
280 pages

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Other websites for additional information:

American Kennel Club breed page
Basenji Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Basenji Club of America Rescue

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Page Last Updated: February 1, 2018

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