Overview
The Basenji comes from Central Africa, where it was used to hunt and flush game. It is a primitive-type breed that sits near the base of the domestic dog family tree.
It is small, short-coated and tidy, and it grooms itself much like a cat. It is lively and clever, but it follows its own mind and is better suited to experienced owners.
History
Dogs resembling the Basenji appear in Egyptian art thousands of years old, and the breed has long lived with people in Central Africa. A dog that looks like a Basenji appears in an 1843 painting owned by Queen Victoria.
Early imports to England died of disease, and the breed was only established there in the 1930s and then in the United States. Most Western dogs descend from few founders, so the stud book has been reopened to new imports several times.
Appearance
A small, fine-boned, square dog with erect ears, an arched neck and a tightly curled tail. The forehead wrinkles, especially in puppies or when the dog is excited. Males stand about 43 cm and weigh around 11 kg, females about 40 cm and 9.5 kg.
The coat is short and glossy in red, black, tricolour or brindle, always with white feet, chest and tail tip.
Temperament
Basenjis are alert, curious and affectionate with their family, but they are independent and can be aloof with strangers. They are playful and mischievous, and known for climbing and escaping.
They do not bark in the usual way, but they can yodel, whine and scream. They are not easy to train, as they tend to weigh up whether a command is worth following.
Care and exercise
Basenjis need plenty of daily exercise and play in a safe, fenced area, because their hunting instinct makes them poor off-lead. Puzzle toys and routine help keep a clever mind busy.
Grooming is easy: an occasional brush is enough, and they stay very clean. They dislike cold and wet weather.
Health
Fanconi syndrome, a kidney tubule disorder, is unusually common and should be screened for. Hereditary haemolytic anaemia also occurs and can be DNA tested. Dermatitis, bladder problems and hypothyroidism have been reported. A UK survey found a median lifespan of about 13.6 years.
