What is a basenji?
The basenji is one of the oldest breeds of dog still in existence.
They are recorded in Egyptian engravings dating back to 3600 B.C.
With the fall of the Egyptian civilization the basenji faded into
obscurity until 1861 when explorers of the "Dark Continent"
rediscovered him in the Congo area of central Africa.
Many attempts were made to
bring the basenji into Europe, but these were not successful until
1937. The early imports all fell victim to distemper, to which they had
never been exposed in their native Africa.
The basenji is a natural
breed, his development chosen by the laws of nature rather than
the whims of man. Today he is little changed from the dog kept by the
Egyptians, thanks to centuries of isolation in central Africa.
The basenji is both a sight
and a scent hound. He is a swift, silent, tireless hunter. He can be
trained to point, flush, track, and drive. Basenjis compete in lure
coursing events with other sighthound breeds, and in agility
events with many other breeds.
Known as the barkless dog, the
basenji is not mute. He makes all sounds common to other breeds, with
the exception of the bark, plus his own distinctive sounds-- which
include crowing, howling and yodeling. However , a basenji is normally
quiet.
Basenjis are affectionate and
loyal with their families,but may be reserved with strangers. They have
an overwhelming sense of curiosity and an independent nature. They are
highly intelligent, but strong willed, impish and playful. A basenji
will love you steadfastly, but on his own terms. Basenjis have a highly
developed sense of self respect and personal rights.
Basenjis are exceptionally
clean and odorless. Their short coats require little care. These
qualities make them excellent house pets. They are small dogs,
averaging 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulders and weighing about 25
pounds. They should be elegant looking and graceful, but sturdy and
athletic. The whole demeanor is one of poise and alertness. A
basenji should have a wrinkled forehead and small erect ears. The
tail is tightly curled and carried over to one side . The color may be
red (a rich reddish brown), black, tricolor (black with tan markings)
or brindle (dark striping on a background of reddish brown), all with
white on the chest, all four feet, and tip of the tail. Many also have
a white collar and/or blaze.
The basenji, like other
sighthounds, is not a dog for everyone. He will be your friend,
hunting companion, source of amusement and a steadfast protector, but
it takes a special person to respect, appreciate and enjoy the
basenji's unique personality.