The Basenji-Not for Everyone-Really!

The Basenji is originally from Africa and used as a hunting dog, as well as to notify the tribe of lions etc as they are fearless and will run off intruders, some do not return. They made their appearance in Egypt as early as 4000 BC as they are pictured in bas-relief and sculptured in stone. Nothing has changed in his appearance nor his temperament. People are lured into thinking this would be the perfect dog for a home as the weight for an adult male should max out about 24lbs. They do not bark as our domesticated dog will. Some have made a 'fox' bark, but rather they baroo, yodel and scream as the vocal chords are formed differently than our dogs of today. They shed very little and are fastidious cleaners of themselves. BUT! They need to run and expend a lot of energy. They need to be challenged mentally too. Otherwise your will find your rugs chewed, garbage strewn about, curtains torn, pillows and couches eviscerated, did I mention destruction? So many are re-homed due to the destruction and hard to train because they are so independent in their thinking. Being sight hounds, they will run to get to it, and the recall you thought they mastered for that hot dog treat will go right out the window. Most deaths are due to the dog being killed in a traffic accident.

So why do I have one, why is there a forum with all of us bragging about our Basenjis? Well, once smitten, you will be addicted for life. With the Good , The Bad, and the Ugly as is written on Basenji Rescue and Transport. Do more than written research if you are even curious about one for your family. I leave you now, hopping I talked you into reconsideration or at least reality check! They are one of the oldest breeds and will not change to live with us, rather, we have to adapt to their way of life!