Dogs
Basenji
Other names: Cão do Congo, Congo Terrier , Nyam Nyam Terrier , Zande Dog, Congo Dog, Congo Bush Dog, Congo Terrier, Bongo Dog, African Barkless Dog, African Bush Dog, Zande Dog, Belgian Congo Dog, Nyam Nyam Terrier, Basenji
Hunting, sighting, watchdog, agility, lure coursing.
- Origin
- Zaire
- Size
- Small
- Height · Male
- 41–43 cm
- Height · Female
- 38–41 cm
- Weight · Male
- 10–12 kg
- Weight · Female
- 9–11 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Litter
- 6 puppies
- FCI
- FCI group 5 · 5 · n.º 43
- AKC
- Hound Group · #79
Traits
Activity
Social
At home
Care
Training
Guarding
Temperament
The Basenji is a very alert and fun loving breed, however is not recommended for an inexperienced owner. This breed has the tendency to become destructive if left along for long periods of time so proper training and confinement will work best for this fault. Basenjis can be very patient and good with children, however should be socialized early to prevent the tendencies to fight with other dogs.
Care
The Basenji is an active dog that needs daily mental and physical exercise. His needs can be met by a long walk followed by a vigorous game, or by running freely in a safe, enclosed area. He does best as an indoor dog with access to a yard. Coat care is minimal, consisting of only occasional brushing to remove dead hair.
The Basenji being so energetic needs quite a bit of exercise. Vigorous daily walks are required as this breed has a lot of energy and can be somewhat tireless. This breed being a hunter has the stamina of such and does best with a fenced in yard. However, the fence should be planted deeply into the ground and rather high to prevent escape as this breed can be an escape artist if proper precautions are not taken.
Fenced in living environment, an activity or job to do.
Health
The Basenji is much like a cat being very clean and grooming himself on occasion. This is a little to no shedding breed, however does require some grooming if the coat is to stay in good shape. An occasional brushing with a firm bristle or wire brush works best to remove dead or loose hair from the coat. The smooth coat of the Basenji is very easy to care for.
Training
Because it is an independent and stubborn dog, it is quite difficult to be trained. The training must be performed by a person with a lot of experience, patience and skills, able to make the dog listen and execute the orders. The training must be firm, consistent, but without being too rough or severe.
Coat & grooming
It is considered to be the cleanest dog. It grooms itself and washes itself just like a cat. The brushing fur at this dog can be performed with a rubber glove or brush. It doesn't like the rain, it can't stand the cold and the drought.
Fun facts
The Basenji doesn't bark, but does have a lot of other unusual vocalizations. He may yodel, howl, growl, or crow, depending on his mood. A very clean dog, the Basenji grooms himself like a cat, washing his face with his paws after meals. The coat doesn't
