The Basenji, which originates from Central Africa, is a very old breed of dog that has a number of special characteristics. The proud animals, nicknamed “Congo Terriers”, are still relatively unknown in this country, but their atypical character and clean nature could make the Basenji a popular dog here too.
Content: Basenji
- profile
- Special features
- Nutrition
- Health and care
- Origin & History
- The right accessories
- Conclusion
Basenji - Profile
- Character: Happy, bright, playful, fond of children, gentle
- Size: Medium
- Height: 40-45cm
- Weight: 9-12 kg
- Life expectancy: 13-15 years
- Coat type: Short hair
- Colour: Black and white, red and white, tan
- Special features: curly tail
- FCI Group: Spitz – primitive dogs
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Basenji - Special characteristics
With a height of 40 - 45 cm at the withers and a weight of 9 to 12 kilos, the adult Basenji is a medium-sized breed. The females are usually a little smaller and more delicate than the males. With the right dog training and fitness, the Basenji can live to an above-average age of around 15 years. Despite its square build, it appears light and slim. With its long legs, it is considered to be long-legged and is an excellent hunting, riding or sports companion.
With their upright gait they appear proud, elegant and extremely self-confident. Their trademarks are their erect ears and curled tail, which they carry either slightly to the left or right, but never in the middle. The smooth coat of the Basenji lies close and can be of different colors. Red and white, black and white or a mixture of all three colors are the most common color combinations. The paws, tip of the tail and chest area are usually white. With their red and white fur they have a certain resemblance to foxes.
This self-confident dog breed manages to gain respect from other dogs with its charisma alone. This may be why Basenjis hardly ever bark and when they do, they usually bark in monosyllables and in different tones. Definitely a special feature that stands out. His> pronounced intelligence and ability to learn are also striking. He is balanced, tolerant and independent. These dogs are difficult to upset with their patience. At the same time, this dog breed has a strong temperament and a will of its own, which they also try to assert. With its stubbornness and strong personality, this dog breed is not easy to train. It finds it difficult to submit and it can be difficult to convince him of things that he does not think much of. So retrieving is not for him and prospective dog owners should be aware of this and accept the Basenji with his special character as he is. Training is best done when the dog is still a puppy and with some experience with dogs and a loving but consistent manner, it will work! Bred as a hunting dog , it always monitors its surroundings and looks for something to do. It has a strong urge to move and needs to be allowed to run around. Two long walks a day can be enough to keep this breed well in an apartment. Letting the Basenji run free is only recommended if it is really well trained. But even then there is an acute risk of escape. It can also escape from supposedly well-fenced gardens because it is an excellent escape artist with a great urge for freedom. Once it has been integrated into the family and a relationship of trust has been established, it is a loyal and affectionate dog who builds a close bond with its owners. It is also extremely fond of children and is therefore perfect as a companion dog or for the family. Even if it rarely becomes aggressive, it is usually distant and distrustful of strangers.
Basenji - What should be considered regarding nutrition?
The Basenji's diet is quite simple. A ¾ to a full cup of high-quality wet or dry food per day is sufficient, depending on how busy they are. They are neither prone to obesity nor allergies. As with all dogs, a balanced diet contributes to the dog's health.
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Basenji - Health and Care
Due to decades of breeding, the Basenji is unfortunately plagued by genetic effects and diseases caused by inbreeding. The eye disease PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) and metabolic diseases are widespread. In order to contain these diseases, inbreeding is strictly avoided in reputable breeding. Anyone who wants to buy a Basenji should therefore make sure to find a reputable breeder and a complete stud book. Unlike cats, dogs are not considered clean animals. The Basenji is an exception here, because it grooms itself frequently and takes care of its own fur. Grooming could therefore hardly be easier. If you like, you can help it with occasional brushing. Another special feature of this breed of dog is its relatively odorless fur, which hardly starts to smell even when it rains. They also hardly shed, which makes them the perfect dog for allergy sufferers .
Basenji - Origin & History
>The Basenji originates in Central Africa, in the forests of the Congo. This very old breed of dog was kept early on as a hunting and guard dog, but also as a companion dog. It became more well-known during the colonial period, especially in Great Britain and Belgium. In 1964 it was recognized as an independent breed by the FCI and to this day it is the British who set the standards. The Basenji is still relatively unknown in this country, even though the first German Basenji breeding club was founded in 1977 and with its strong character and clean nature it could certainly find some fans here too.
Basenji - The right accessories
When it comes to dog accessories, the Basenji is uncomplicated. A leash, a collar or alternatively a harness and a brush are almost all it needs. A retreat in the form of a dog bed , hygiene and care products such as a dog toothbrush, nail clippers or ear cleaning sets for dogs complete the basic equipment. The initial equipment for a puppy , however, is a topic in itself.
Conclusion
The Basenji, also known as the "Congo Terrier", is a fascinating breed of dog with a variety of unique characteristics. Originally from Central Africa, the Basenji is a cheerful, bright and playful companion who exudes extraordinary grace and self-confidence despite his medium-sized body. His striking appearance, characterized by erect ears and a curled tail, makes him unmistakable.
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