Tags: Basenji, Basenji Pictures
| Weight |
22-25 lbs |
| Height |
15″ to 17″ |
| Colors |
Black, chestnut red, tricolor or brindle all with white on chest, feet and tip of tail |
| Coat |
Short, dense, soot and shiny |
| Origin |
The Basenji or Congo Dog, is originated in Africa. Dogs similar to the Basenji are depicted in ancient Egyptian tombs. It is used mainly as a watchdog to warn against wild game in Africa and as a hunting dog. |
| Description |
This independent, high energy breed needs lots of excercise and some time for alone play. They do well with children and other dogs when socialized at a young age. They don’t always to well with other types of pets. They tend to be slow to warm up to strangers. They make excellent watchdogs. The Basenji does not bark, but rather exerts a series of different sounds including yodeling, crowing and howling. |
| Health |
The Basenji is prone is a kidney problem called Fanconi’s Syndrome. As soon as they symptoms appear, they should be treated. They may also develop problems with hip dysplasia, eye and intestinal problems and retinal atrophy. |
|
|
Comment by Trish
I rescued a dog of unknown breed, but quickly located his breed as Besenji. He is an amazing friend who is dedicated to me and me only. He is friendlier to women, but is aloof with men and children. It takes a very long time to earn his trust, but once you have it, he will remain your constant friend.
Because he does not bark, he has been allowed in places where dogs are not usually allowed -thus my constant companion.
He does not like to ride in a car -at all-, but loves to go “bye-bye”, just to be with me.
Giving him a bath is never a chore, as he is well behaved and seems to endure whatever I put him through for the sake of pleasing me.
He is fast to learn -again wanting to please his master.
His odd personality seems to fit the life of this single woman perfectly.
Because I am disabled, I can’t often take him walking, but he is very good at entertaining himself, often running for the sake of needing to stretch and exercise.
I tell everyone who comments on his regal stature, that he is a Besenji and enjoy telling them of his Egyptian heritage and non-penchant for barking.
I love Shylo -my quiet companion
Posted on April 21, 2011 at 9:16 pm
Comment by Trish
I wanted to add that it took over a year to completely earn this lovely dog’s trust. I’m not sure what rescue dogs endure, but his back story must have contained a long sad history of abuse.
He has always been well behaved, and as our time together passed, he seemed to want to trust me -however reluctant.
He is a good dog -I can’t stress this enough. He rarely misbehaves or needs correcting.
He does not chew on unwanted possessions, nor does he have the desire to get into things -a lack of curiosity. He does enjoy his alone time.
When he is alone in the back yard, I often observe him sitting in the sun, soaking up rays. This can be a cause for concern because of his light colored nose and face. In the summer, I notice freckles appear on this muzzle. I need to research how one goes about protecting a dog from too much sun.
Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated.
In closing, I want those who are looking for a steadfast, loyal companion who does not have a bothersome bark (he is perfect for apartment or city dwellers who will exercise him).
His lack of barking is the thing I seem to love most about him.
But beware -when he does bark, it is a very high-pitched yelp or squeal. If he’s heard to make a noise, one does take notice -that makes him the best type of watchdog in my opinion. No bothersome non-stop barking as many other breeds I myself have had. The one dog that I do not recommend for someone in need of a quiet companion would be one of the most beautiful dogs I’ve had the honor of loving: The English Cocker. He is a hunter (nose to the ground), a swimmer (long coat to maintain), and a barker (a hunting dog).
I hope that Shylo remains in my life for many years to come.
Oh, it should be mentioned that they are curious when out and about (they are content in their own yard), and will wander off and be gone from you before they know they are gone.
He has gotten out of the yard, or away from me no less than 6 times, and each time has be a heart-wrenching experience ending in a joyful reunion.
Posted on April 21, 2011 at 9:31 pm