Basenji
Hound Group
Height at Shoulders
Females 15-16 in, Males 16-17 in
Weight
Females 20-24 lbs, Males 22-26 lbs
Life Expectancy
13-14 yrs
History
The Basenji originated in the Congo region of West Africa. They were a multi-purpose dog, bred for hunting via flushing game into nets, carrying goods, and warning their caretakers of oncoming danger. It is theorized that they are only partially domesticated, as their metabolism cycles only once, not twice per year. Basenjis are also considered one of the oldest breeds, as they were gifted to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt by people traveling up the Nile from interior Africa. Basenjis and their close ancestors are depicted in ancient Egyptian, Babylonian, and Mesopotamian art.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Basenjis share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★★★★
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★★
★★★☆☆
★☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
★☆☆☆☆
Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★★☆
Exercise Needs
★★★★★
Energy Level
★★★★★
Sensitivity
★★★☆☆
Noise Level
★☆☆☆☆
Prey Drive
★★★★★
Shedding
★☆☆☆☆
Common Traits
Affectionate, protective, and highly intelligent
Basenjis can't bark and instead make a unique, yodel-like noise
Big-time chewers and skilled vertical leapers
Escape artists that can find their way out of fenced-in yards and are unfazed by the shock of underground electric fences
Groom themselves like cats and lack “dog odor”
Very stubborn and difficult to train- will not follow a command if they are not in the mood or see no benefit in doing so
More Information
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