How to Identify A Basenji Dog

The Basenji is an African hound that is used for hunting small game. Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics depict a kind of dog that was used for the same purpose many thousands of years ago. It bears a striking resemblance to the Basenji and may very well be its predecessor. With the appropriate training this breed of dog can make a fine companion, though it is still an uncommon species to find in Europe and America. For that reason here is a guide on how to identify a Basenji should you see one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog
• Your Eyes

Identifying A Basenji

1. Look at the dog’s overall shape and size. For a hound, this is a small breed that rarely grows over 17 inches at the shoulder. They are elegant and have a good upright posture, being straight backed and long legged. They also have short tails that curl up so the tip touches the base of the spine. If you get the opportunity, watch how the dog runs. They have a very distinctive horse-like gait.

2. Examine the dog’s coat. They have very sleek, short fur that comes in only a few colored patterns. These colors are red, black, copper, and tan. Each of these colors will be accompanied by white feet, a white chest and underbelly. Some also have white collars and white spots on the face and bridge of the nose.

3. Look at the dog’s head. It should have a thick neck leading to a flat skull and furrowed brow that makes the dog look worried or nervous. They have tall, triangular, forward facing ears. Its eyes are small and almond shaped which seem to be hooded or squinted rather than fully open. The Basenji will also have a long snout, but a narrow under slung jaw giving it the impression of an under bite. If the dog matches this description then you’re looking at a Basenji.

Tips & Warnings

• The Basenji does not bark in the conventional sense, but will yip, yodel, or whine depending on its mood. They are quiet, but also very active, and can become violent or anti-social unless they have attention every day.
• The Basenji is a pack dog that prefers to be kept with two or three other Basenji. They are happiest and not at all prone to complaining then. They won't fight or bicker. They do not like to get wet, but are very clean as they lick themselves like a cat, so they don't really need regular baths.
• The Basenji is a species that was believed to have originally been used for hunting small game. For that reason they should not be left around non-canine pets. Their hunting instincts can have a tendency to take control. They also have a habit of chewing, so make sure they have plenty of chew toys handy. Thankfully, they are smart enough to figure out what they're not allowed to chew on after one or two reprimands. Basenji's are also incredibly good climbers and can get over a chain link fence easily. To keep a Basenji, it would be best to have a yard and plenty of room for it to play, without having to worry about getting into trouble with other animals or escaping to someone else's property.

Resources

• Link To Reliable Basenji Breeders

[harvard]

on 3/13/2009 Excellent article. As one Basenji owner to the next I have to say I concur on everything you say! Thank you.

[msmichab]

on 12/7/2008 I have a basenji and her tail is not curled. She is for sure a basenji though. I wanted to let you know this so you can add that to your how to idenify "Basenji blog. Thank you.