Basenji
Popularly known as the "Barkless Dog" from Africa, Basenjis attract admirers with his short coat, small muscular nature and incredibly alert nature. He is also an escape artist where he will run for things out of curiosity.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
varies
9-12 kg
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Congo
pure
hound
Characteristics of the Basenji
It is one of the few breeds that developed in Africa and you probably haven't seen one of them around yet, after all it is a rather unusual breed. Nicknamed by many as a "feline" dog, as it loves to groom itself for long periods(mainly licking its paws). Also because these doesn't "bark", the Basenjis produce a type of Tyrolean singing sound . When it comes to it's intelligence, he will perfectly understand the commands you teach, but whether he will perform the actions is another story. This is mainly because it is not easy to train a dog breed which does things as per their own whims and fancies. Instead of obedience, the Basenji will use their intelligence to attract your attention to the things they need.
Coat
Basenjis are dogs who have a short, fine coat which mainly comes in chestnut red, black, tri-colour or brindle colour. This breed may also have white on his legs, a white blaze crossing the centre of their head and a white mark around their neck as well. Also, there's one thing that shouldn't be a reason for you to worry. As Basenji's hair is uniform and short, these dogs have a low percentage of shedding. A simple weekly brushing, with a special glove to brighten the coat, is enough to keep it looking clean. Also, these dogs don't need baths frequently due to their relatively shorter coat and can be kept clean with one bathe every month. Make sure you use some top quality shampoos and conditioners so that you can keep these dogs absolutely dirt free. Make sure their grooming is extremely positive by rewarding them with some delicious treats.
Pet Profile
Best Dog Food For Basenjis
Basenjis is a medium-sized dog that is originated in Congo as a hunting dog and hence, requires a balanced diet for healthy growth and development. Firstly, Basenjis need a healthy protein content as this nutrient is the basic building block of cells, tissues and organs. Protein also keep their muscles and bones in supple condition. Also, fat content around 5% is needed by this dog for maintaining good active lifestyle. Moreover, having essential vitamins and minerals in their diet also go a long way in ensuring normal metabolic function in their body. Regarding the feeding amount, puppies would require 3-4 bowls a day whereas adult Basenjis would need around 2 full meals a day. It is important not to feed them from your plate as it will only lead to begging habit. Also, refrain from over-feeding these dogs as it can lead to problem like obesity.
Grooming Your Basenjis
Basenji dogs have a short, fine coat that doesn't shed much. Also due to their small hair, they are extremely easy to groom as well. It would be best if owners can use a soft bristle brush, hound mitt or even a rubber curry brush to remove dead hairs and to distribute skin oils to keep the coat healthy and shiny. Owners of Basenjis have their task easy as these dogs are also known to indulge in self-grooming, thereby making the grooming requirements a lot convenient. Regarding bathing, these dogs only need to be bathed once every month as they don't get so dirty quickly. Though you may need to brush them before they are taken into the bath, so that you can keep their coat mat and tangle free. Basenji owners are also required to trim the nails of the dogs regularly if it doesn't wear out naturally. If you can hear a click everytime this dog walks, their nails have grown too long and it is time to cut.
Taking Care of a Basenji
As it has the body structure of a "light" dog, don't let it get fat or lack physical activities, obesity can bring several health problems. Falconi Syndrome, a kidney disease that affects the processing of sugars and proteins, usually appears in dogs of this breed.
History of Basenjis
Basenjis are considered among those dogs who supposedly dates back to the Pharaohs, having no evidence at all to support this claim. The breeds which are found to be depicted on the walls of ancient Egyptian tombs range from Dachshunds to Pharaoh Hounds. So the dogs which resembled Basenjis may have surely existed for thousands of years, but the breed that we see today may be just centuries old. Today, Basenjis are among the best family dogs one can find and is ranked 89th among the breeds registered by the American Kennel Club.