Basenji
Basenji (African Barkless Dog)
History of the Basenji
The Basenji is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, originating in Central Africa. The breed was originally bred by indigenous tribes to assist in hunting. A striking characteristic of the Basenji is that they don't bark like most dogs, but rather make a yodeling sound, which earned them the nickname "African Barkless Dog". The breed was brought to Europe and America in the 1930s, where it quickly gained popularity due to its unique qualities.
No other names for this breed are known. The Basenji is rare, and finding a puppy can be a challenge. There are often long waiting lists for this unique breed.
Character and Temperament
The Basenji is an independent and intelligent dog with a strong hunting instinct. They are known for their curiosity and energy, but also for their sometimes stubborn nature. Basenjis bond strongly with their families, but often have a reserved attitude towards strangers. They are playful, adventurous, and always looking for new challenges.
Physical Characteristics
The Basenji is a small to medium-sized dog with an elegant, athletic build. They have a short, fine coat that requires minimal grooming. Coat colors range from red and white to black, brindle, and tri-color. An adult Basenji stands approximately 40-43 cm at the withers and weighs an average of 9-12 kg.
Collar/harness sizes:
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Neck circumference: 30-40 cm
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Chest circumference: 45-55 cm
Care
The Basenji has a short, smooth coat that requires little maintenance. They are known as "self-cleaning" dogs and don't have a strong doggy odor. Weekly brushing is sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. Regularly check their nails, ears, and teeth to ensure their overall health.
Movement and Activity
The Basenji is an active dog that needs daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They love long walks, playing, and running in a safe, fenced environment. Due to their strong hunting instinct, it's important not to let them off-leash in places where they could chase prey.
Health
The Basenji is generally a healthy breed, but there are some genetic conditions they can be susceptible to, such as Fanconi syndrome, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and hip dysplasia. It's important to buy a puppy from a responsible breeder who performs health checks. The average lifespan of a Basenji is 12-14 years.
Nutrition
A Basenji needs a balanced diet appropriate for its activity level and age. An average adult Basenji eats approximately 150-250 grams of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two meals. Ensure plenty of fresh water and consult your veterinarian about the best food choices.
Training and Socialization
The Basenji is intelligent but can be stubborn, making training challenging. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement are essential to teach desired behaviors. Patience and consistency are key when training a Basenji, as they get bored easily.
Suitability for Owners
The Basenji is suitable for active owners who can dedicate sufficient time and attention to exercise and mental stimulation. They are less suitable for people who are often away from home, as they are prone to boredom and may exhibit destructive behavior if they are not sufficiently stimulated.
Share your Basenji!
Do you own a Basenji? We're curious to hear about your experiences and stories! Send a photo of your Basenji to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to participate in a video for FidelloTV and earn €20 in shopping credit? Make an appointment via klantenservice@fidello.nl and help us share more about this special breed on YouTube!