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Basenji

Basenjis are small, alert hunting dogs of an ancient lineage; dogs of very similar body type can be seen depicted on the side of the pharaohs' tombs.  In Africa, they are still used as pack dogs for flushing out game.  Basenjis are distinguished by the strange yodel-like noise they emit, instead of a bark.  Like wolves and dingos, Basenjis come into season once, rather than twice, each year.  Basenjis shed minimally, which makes them excellent pets for allergy sufferers.  They are also fastidious in their cleaning habits, which are similar to those of cats.

Breed Category

Hound

Temperament

Friendly and confident, Basenjis make good house pets, but they are stubborn in nature and have a tendency to become destructive if bored.

Appearance

Basenjis have long jaws, typical of many ancient dog breeds, and wrinkled foreheads, which give them a quizzical expression.  They have large, mobile, pricked ears that encourage heat loss in hot climates.  The distinctive tail curls back close to the spine.  The short, sleek coat evolved as camouflage and is usually tan and white, but black and red with white markings is also common.  The back is short and straight, with a well-defined waist.

Size:    Height at withers 16-17 in

Weight:    21-24 lbs  

Exercise Requirements:    Moderate to considerable

Grooming Requirements:    Minimal

Life Expectancy:    15 years

Things to Consider

1. Prone to many hereditary diseases

2. Can be difficult to train

3. Suspicious of strangers

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org