Quiet & Solitude Basenji – The Dog Without Barks
The Basenji can be considered a rare breed of dog. The breed is a small short-haired hunting dog from Africa. This breed is an ancient breed that does not bark. The dog makes noise, but it sounds more like a laugh or a yodel. Your neighbors will love this breed of dog.
The Basenji has a short back and a slim build. Even with the slight build, the Basenji is an athletic dog about the size of a fox terrier. The Basenji has a smooth, shiny coat of copper, red, black, and tan, and can also be black and brindle in color.
The feet are usually white. The white color is repeated on the chest and the tip of the tail. The forehead is furrowed with wrinkles, giving the breed a worried look. The tail is set high and curly.
The Basenji was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1943. The Basenji is classified in the Hound Group. The Basenji is considered both a sight hound and a scent hound.
The breed is elegant and graceful. One of the most endearing qualities of the Basenji is its unusual gain. The dog has a distinctive gait that resembles the trot of a racehorse. Another distinguishing feature of the breed is that the female Basenji goes into heat only once a year.
The Basenji grows to a height of between 16-17 inches for males and 15-16 inches for females. They weigh 22-26 pounds for males. Females weigh between 20 and 25 pounds.
This is a high energy pet that requires a lot of exercise. The breed wants to play constantly. This is good for a family with children. However, the playful nature can become a nuisance at times when the game is not appropriate. Of course, children love this playful nature. The children will go out before the dog. This strong desire to play constantly can lead to behavioral problems. Obedience training is required with this breed.
The Basenji breed loves children. The high energy level of children and the Basenjis love of continuous play can benefit most parents and dog owners. Before the day is done, both the dog and the kids will be ready for some much-needed rest.
The Basenji breed has some common health problems including:
- Fanconi syndrome (a kidney disease)
- Progressive retinal atrophy (a gradual-onset blindness that begins at four or five years of age)
- thyroid problems
- Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)
- Umbilical and inguinal hernias
Very little preparation is required for Basenjis. The Basenjis have very clean clothes. Basenji spend hours grooming themselves. Their grooming habits are somewhat like those of a cat. Surprisingly, there is no dog smell. This is a good dog for people with allergies because the breed sheds little to no hair.
The Basenji is an alert and affectionate dog. This breed makes a good family pet, especially a family with active children. This dog likes to chew and climb. Watch out for the agility of this dog. They have been known to maneuver over chain-link fences.
