Hound Group

History: This dog also goes by Congo Dog and African barkless dog. It originated in the country Zaire. This breed is a descendant of the earliest pariah dogs and was used as a hunting dog as long ago as 3600 B.C. Legend has it that early Basenjis were brought from Central Africa to Egyptian pharaohs as gifts. When the Egyptian civilization declined, the breed became rare although it was maintained in a pure state in its native country of Zaire. The Basenji was first encountered by weterners in the early 1900s and several were brought to England in 1936, where they were used as hunting dogs, pointing, retrieving, and bolting prey.

Breed Description: This is a medium sized, lightly built but muscular dog that is shorter than it is tall. It's head is wrinkled and flat and it's muzzle is shorter than the skull. The eyes are almond shaped and dark hazel to dark brown and the nose is black. The ears are small and erect and the neck is arched. The trade mark tale is high and curled. The feet are small and compact. The coat is short and fine, chestnut red, black, tricolor, or brindle. The feet, chest, and tail tip are white. These dogs are usually 16 to 17 inches tall and weigh 22 to 24 pounds.

Temperament: Basenjis are intelligent dogs. They are alert and independent as well. They are affectionate with family and protective and wary around strangers. Basenjis are almost cat like when it comes to curiosity. They do not bark, but yodel instead.

Energy Level: High

Notes: These dogs require a dog-experienced family in a suburban or country home. They need and activity or job to keep busy, positive training and a fenced yard. These dogs are great for people converting from a pet cat to a pet dog, as their temperament can be a lot like a cats. They are easily trained if you keep a routine. Left alone with nothing to do, they can become destructive and develope behavior problems. Basenjis are succeptable to anemia, hernias, hip dysplasia, and eye and thyroid problems.