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| Additional Information: Basenji are an unusual breed of dog in as much as they never bark. However, they may growl, howl, and make other guttural noises including a yodel. The legs are long compared to the depth of the body and over all the size of the dog can be compared to that of a fox terrier. It is a muscular dog and can be very athletic. The coat is smooth and shiny. Common colours are red, black and tan, brindle, and copper. One feature of a dog so small is its wrinkled, furrowed, forehead, especially when the dog is young. The eyes are shaped like almonds. Upright ears stand proud on a flat head and are open to the front. The tail curls upwards and over a back which is generally flat. Their gait is not unlike that of a trotting horse: graceful and elegant. Basenjis hate water and will do practically anything to stay dry. Basenjis are able climbers and wire fences are no real obstacle. They do not mix well with cats. They are a demanding breed with so much energy for play. Toys and chews are vital if you wish your furniture etc to remain undamaged. For all that, they do make good pets but if you have young children, buying her a puppy is the best option as adult dogs may not take kindly to being pulled about by younger children. Like many pure breed dogs, Basenjis have their share of health problems such as hip displasia, malabsorbtion, an auto-immune intestinal desease which can lead to chronic diarrhoea and anorexia. It can also kill the dog. The breed is known to be carriers of a gene which can cause Hemolytic Anemia. Fanconi syndrome is an inherited kidney disease. The disease can be tested for by checking the urine for sugar. If you have unlimited energy, want a fairly small dog which requires a lot of playful attention, then the Basenji maybe what you are looking for. A strong bond is possible between pet and owner. | |||||||||||||
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