Group: The Basenji belongs to the hound/primitive group.
Height: The average male Basenji is 17 inches in height (43.18 cm), and the average female Basenji is 16 inches in height (40.64 cm).
Weight: The average Basenji weighs 21 to 24 pounds (9.52 to 10.8 kg).
Life Expectancy: The average Basenji has a lifespan of 10 to 14 years.
Good with Kids? Yes
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Colors: The Basenji may be red, black, tricolor (black, red and white), and brindle (black stripes on red). All colors may have white feet, chest, tip of tail, and some have white legs and collar. There is always less white than any other color.
Physical Traits: Despite its small size, the Basenji is small and athletic, and possesses a quick, graceful stride. The Basenji can adapt to any climate.
Hair Type: The Basenji has a dense, short, silky-fine coat. The Basenji sheds very little and makes great pet for owners with allergies.
Nicknames: The Basenji (actually means "bush thing") is also known as the African Bush dog, the Belgian Congo Dog, the Congo Bush Dog, the Bongo Terrier, the Congo Terrier, the Zande Dog, and the Nyam-Nyam Terrier.
Bred For: The Basenjis were used as pack hunters to chase game into nets. The Basenji increased in popularity after being featured as the title character of a popular 1950’s book and movie, “Goodbye, My Lady”. Some Basenjis from Africa were imported in the 1980’s, widening the gene pool and introducing the brindle color to the breed.
Personality / Temperament: The Basenji is gentle, quiet, and intelligent. This breed is a sight/scent hound, and is very alert and independent. The Basenji may be aloof to strangers, and may also be described as mischievous, curious, affectionate, tireless, protective, and territorial. Basenjis have an aversion to water. The Basenji will circle a person or animal when it feels threatened. They are safe around children, but don't really make an ideal playmate.
Origination: The modern breed of the Basenji originated in Central Africa, or the African Congo. Basenji actually means "bush thing."
Maintenance / Special Needs: Basenjis require early socialization in order to teach them that other household pets are not prey. The Basenji sheds only lightly, so it makes a good pet for those with allergies, and cleans itself with its paws like a cat, so bathing is not generally necessary. The Basenji craves attention, and a fence is recommended as the Basenji has tendency to wander in search of small prey. The Basenji is prone to obesity, and may become destructive if left unattended, or if not exercised properly. The Basenji may nip if startled from sleep.
Identifying Traits: The Basenji is an ancient breed that can be seen depicted on stone tablets in Egyptian tombs. Though the Basenji rarely barks, it is capable of making other unique noises such as squeals, yodels, chortles, yips, sand creams when among loved ones. The Basenji has vocal cords, but its lack of a bark may be attributed to its evolution as a silent hunter. The Basenji has wrinkles on its forehead and a curled tail.
Ideal For: The Basenjis make an ideal pet for an individual or for family, and are great for companionship. The Basenji sheds very little and makes a great pet for those with allergies.
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