What is a Basenji

Basenji Club of Western Australia Inc
Preserve, Protect & Promote Basenjis
What's a Basenji?
The Basenji is a small-to-medium, lightly built, elegant dog, frequently referred to as the 'barkless
dog from Africa'. Indeed, Basenjis don't bark and on the whole are a fairly quiet breed. They are
not mute, however. These curious and athletic dogs make a range of noises from a yodel (or baroo)
when they are pleased, through to the more mundane growl, howl and mumble to express their
unhappiness.
Visually, the Basenji is easily identified by its tightly curled tail, pricked ears and wrinkled
forehead. The breed comes in four different coat colours (red, black, tri or brindle), but importantly
all basenjis have white feet, tail tip, and a white chest, with many also having white socks, collars or
blazes.
Black & White
Red & White
Tri-colour
Brindle
Historically, the Basenji's keen sense of smell and acute eyesight helped make it a superb hunting
hound, flushing small game from undergrowth and pursuing quarry over long distances. They are
one of the oldest or primitive breeds, meaning that their genetic makeup is the least changed from
their wolf ancestors (other primitive breeds include the Akita, Afghan Hound, Chow Chow,
Malamute and Saluki). Drawings of Basenjis on ancient Egyptian tombs indicate that the breed has
changed little in thousands of years. From the Middle East, the Basenji spread in pockets over parts
of Africa to become a much admired hunter in several African countries. Different locations and
environments led to the development of variations in colour and size. The breed was introduced to
Western society around 1895 when a pair of Basenjis was imported into England. Unfortunately,
Basenjis were quite susceptible to western diseases, resulting in many disappointing losses of
imported dogs. With the advent of appropriate vaccinations, in addition to sustained efforts on the
part of dedicated breeders, the Basenji breed was finally established in the UK during the 1930s. A
small number were brought to Australia a relatively short time later, in 1946.
Basenji Club of Western Australia Inc
Preserve, Protect & Promote Basenjis
Facts & Figures
Height 40-43 cm at the shoulder
Weight 9-11 kg
Average number of pups per litter: 4–6
Average life span:
Top speed:
12–16 years
approx. 35-40kph (6mth-5yrs)
. a bit slower after 5yrs of age
As a pet, the Basenji is both a delight and, at times, a challenge. Basenjis love to be included in
daily family life. Their curiosity and playfulness will keep everyone entertained, but can also lead to
trouble if they explore places or items which are harmful to them.
Basenjis are ideal indoor companion dogs for other reasons, notably the absence of any 'doggy' odor
and, for most of the year, their coat sheds only lightly. They are often described as cat-like because
of their fastidious self-grooming habits as well as their independent spirit. They are alert to the
smallest sounds and changes going on around them so make for good watch dogs.
As youngsters, they need close supervision and socialization to develop the right habits. They
require a well-fenced yard and a dedicated owner for life, which can be for up to 15 years as they
are generally a very healthy breed.
Training a Basenji requires both human patience and persistence. Basenjis are intelligent and quick
to work out how to achieve their own goals. However, their degree of independence and selfreliance can lead them to trust their own instincts above your instructions. Basenjis do respond well
to training when positive methods are used – when you make it fun and worthwhile. Rewards for
wanted behaviour work far better than punishment for misdemeanours.
If you want to find out more, check out the websites suggested on our Links page, or locate these
books through your local library.
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The Complete Basenji, by Elspet Ford. Howell Book House ISBN 0-87605-016-X
The Basenji : Out of Africa to You, by Susan Coe. Doral PublishingISBN 0-94487-542-4
Basenji, by Juliette Cunliffe Interpret Publishing ISBN 1-903098-97-1
Basenjis:Everything about History, Purchase, Care, Training and Health, by Mary Lou Kenworthy
Barrons ISBN 10-07641-3264-4; 13-978-07641-3264-3
The Basenji Club of WA strongly recommends you contact a Registered Breeder if you are
interested in owning this unique breed