BASENJI DOGS: QUIET AND GRACEFUL AFRICAN HUNTERS
67AFRICAN CHARM
BASENJI: QUIET AND GRACEFUL
The Basenji is typical of breeds evolving in temperate and warm climates. His tan color offers camouflage, while the white patches on his fur, and short coat, help him tolerate high temperatures. His camouflage, as well as his silence while tracking game, make him a formidable hunter. Unique characteristics include a breeding cycle of only once per year, as compared to twice annually, in dogs, as a general rule. The dogs also rarely bark, but instead howl in a curious voice sounding somewhat like an Alpine yodeler (Dr. Bruce Fogle, Dogalog).
APPEARANCE
Basenji dogs come in black and white, tan and white, and black. The neck is long and muscular, and the ears are pointed, erect, and highly mobile. Basenji have wrinkles that cause them to look surprised, though as hunters, their prey were usually the ones who were surprised. Their long lean legs allow free movement, and their tails curl up into a ring. The general effect is long, lean, and graceful. Basenji weight range is from 21 to 24 pounds (9.5-11kg), and height range is from 16 to 17 inches tall (41-43 cm).
BREED HISTORY
Although the dogs exact origins remain a mystery, it is believed to have originated in Central Africa, where dogs similar to the Basenji are depicted in Egyptian tombs from the Fourth Dynasty. The Basenji of today decended from dogs that came from Zaire in the 1930s (Dr. Bruce Fogle, Dogalog).
TEMPERAMENT AND TRAINABILITY
Basenji dogs are a docile breed with humans, and are generally good with children. They are suitable for urban living, and can tolerate high levels of heat, given water is available. They are of African origin, consequently, they have a low tolerance for extreme cold climates. Basenji dogs are mainly used as companion dogs today, but be warned. They are difficult to train and tend to wander, so you should keep your Basenji inside or on a lease, especially if you live in an urban area. Though Basenji are best kept indoors, they are poor watchdogs, so invest in a security alarm if this is the dog you choose to have as a companion.
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Interesting, Bob E, since my research sources denied their ability as watchdogs, but then maybe that quality comes from the part of your dog that isn't a Basenji. Sometimes mixed breeds really do give us the best of both worlds. Thanks for commenting on my site.
Thanks Valerie for the post. I had a Basenji in the mid 70's and loved that dog. Very loyal, with a strange little half-bark, like something was caught in his throat. Wandering was an issue and eventually met his match in a passing truck. Unusual breed that deserves more visibility.
Bob
Thank you, rwelton, Its good to see you back again. The dogs seemed ineresting, good pet material, and little known. Interesting that you actually had one as a pet. If you have his picture, I can include it here. Thanks again.
Bob Etier 2 years ago
Great hub! Basenjis are known as "The Dogs Who Walked with Kings" because of their early Egyptian history. We have a basenji mix, whose tail does not curl as tightly as a purebred. She shows herding instincts, and is an excellent watchdog (woe to anyone who comes near our door!), and knows when UPS or Fed-ex is coming from half a mile away! She seldom barks, and has a repertoire of strange vocalizations. She is very loving, but like all basenjis, she wants to wander.