Basenjis don't bark! These Central African imports make a noise between a yodel and a chuckle to let you know what's on their minds. Thought to be one of the world's oldest breeds, Basenjis appear in Egyptian art and hieroglyphics. Bred to hunt, the Basenji is a cat-like sort of canine: this dog is a curious, clever, and strong-willed loner who keeps to herself.
This medium-sized, high-energy breed can grow to between 22-24 pounds and lives an average of 13-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Hound group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Central Africa |
| Breed group | Hound |
| Average Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Rarely barks, if ever |
| AKC Ranking | 79 |
| Family | Sighthound, scenthound, primitive |
| Date of origin | Ancient |
| Original function | Hunting small game |
| Today's function | Lure coursing |
| Average size of male | Height: 17 Weight: 24 |
| Average size of female | Height: 16 Weight: 22 |
| Other name | Congo dog, Congo terrier |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Low tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A BASENJI'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Basenjis are inquisitive, independent dogs. They are very intelligent and can be somewhat playful and affectionate. This breed is sometimes shy with other dogs and pets and does best playing with older children. They can be standoffish with strangers, but they are loving toward their chosen people.
WHAT IS BASENJI BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Basenjis are alert and vigilant, though not especially protective. This breed is very active and needs plenty of daily exercise. They far prefer warm weather and will want to run and romp with you outside.
Basenjis can be mischievous and destructive, particularly when they're bored. Keep them on their toes, or they'll keep you on yours.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A BASENJI?
A Basenji knows its own mind and can be somewhat challenging to train. Start early and be patient and consistent with your furry friend — training will take time and energy. You'll also need to keep this smarty-paws entertained, so make your training sessions brief and fun (and don't be shocked if he has his own ideas about what “obedient” looks like). Basenjis respond well to food rewards, play, and praise.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO BASENJIS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Basenjis have short, relatively odorless hair. They shed seasonally and require occasional grooming. You can wipe this dog down with a mitt or hound glove. Their feline-esque character includes being fastidious about their own tidiness — your Basenji will also groom itself.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO BASENJIS HAVE?
Basenjis have been known to develop Faconi Syndrome (a kidney disorder), Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and hip dysplasia. Most Basenjis are relatively healthy, however.
