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Upside of the Breed.... The Basenji has no 'doggy smell' (except when wet, which is not very often - they usually dislike water). The fact that they hate water means, on wet days, you will never have a wet and muddy dog running into your house. They shed little hair and clean themselves like a cat, so require few baths.
Basenjis are active and will run with you 'all day'. They are equally happy to cuddle up with you on lounge (but beware, on a cold day they will hog the heater). Although they are affectionate, they are still a native dog with an independent, strong-willed nature and a high 'prey drive'.
Basenjis are very intelligent, although obedience is not their forte. You must be consistent and firm in your discipline, but never harsh.
Flipside of the Breed.... You can never leave a door or gate open or let them off the lead. A Basenji will NOT come back. Y0u must, at all times, be vigilant about fencing, making sure gates are closed and locked. (Maseru can open one of our gates, so it must be locked).
Most Basenji’s can climb, especially chain wire fencing. Mika, for example, will climb to head-height, if put in a run. We have found that timber or colour bond fencing is the best.
We have not yet mastered the knack of keeping them off the furniture; although not a particular problem for us, as it may be for some.
A bored Basenji is a destructive Basenji.... Almost everything we own has a Basenji 'chew mark'..... or as a fellow breeder likes to describe it "accessorised"! Basenjis do tend to settle down from about 3-4 years of age (and yes, we have had to replace two lots of carpet), however, their tendency to 'chew' is worthwhile being aware of.
Unless they are well-socialised, Basenjis may not get on with other dogs; especially if they live with other Basenji’s (remember, the Basenji is a pack dog).
Breeding.... A Basenji is a 'native breed' and in their particular case, only has one season a year; similar to the Australian Dingo, Wolf and many other native canids.
Like other native canids, the Basenji oestrus cycle follows the seasons of the year. In Australia the bitch comes into season in Autumn (March-May) and gives birth in Winter (May-July).
NOTE: For an extremely interesting study of the Oestrus cycle of the Basenji female by James E. Johannes, where he connects the biological process with photoperiodism , click here
In years where the weather is unusually hot/cold or wet/dry, their season patterns may change, depending on the bitch.
Likewise the Basenji male has a season: Similar to other native canids, the Basenji male becomes sexually active around the time the bitches come into season. It is a time where their testosterone levels increase along with sperm production ready for mating.
NOTE: For an interesting reflection on the "breeding season" of Basenji males by James E. Johannes, where, once again, he connects the biological process with photoperiodism, click here
At this time of year the males can be difficult to live with. Males will howl for extended periods of time and will try to escape looking for a bitch. They can also have increased aggression towards other male dogs and be “moody”.
Similarly, bitches in season may try to escape looking for a male and are generally intolerant of other bitches.
(Remember an escaped Basenji is a dead Basenji).
Unless you are a registered breeder; to avoid both unwanted puppies and the above listed characteristics, it is HIGHLY recommended that you have both dogs and bitches neutered. Your neighbours will love you for it. Most breeders will require all pet Basenjis sold to be neutered.
At Ngozi, all puppies sold as pets are requested to be desexed. Once desexed, you will receive a contribution towards this procedure.
A desexed Basenji is a happy Basenji and a happy Basenji is a happy owner.
Basenji Health.... The Basenji is still a "native dog" and is free of many of the health issues that plague other breeds, however, like other breeds, the Basenji is subject to a few health matters. We strongly suggest that, before you purchase a puppy, you discuss any health concerns with us or your local breeder. Some of the health issues that may arise in the Basenji breed include:
Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)
Buying a Puppy.... Like most breeders we are particular who we sell our puppies to.
Click here to see if you are suited to owning a Basenji
This is a unique breed and you must do your research before you buy one. A Basenji is NOT suited to everyone and generally not first-time dog owners. To discuss the pros and cons further, please feel free to contact us or your local breeder.
Remember a Basenji is a pack dog and will be happiest in the company of another dog (any breed) usually of the opposite sex, or where a member of the family is at home. A lonely and bored Basenji will howl and will be destructive.
You must have good high and secure fences (not 'chain wire' as most Basenjis will be able to climb it) and secure gates. Most Basenjis will do the “bolt” through any open door, gate or opening so you must think about you and your family’s lifestyle and responsibility.
Click here to see what you will need to undertake before you bring your Basenji home
Lifespan.... Most Basenji’s will live to 14-16 years, so your commitment must be for life. Similarly, it is a lifetime commitment to ensure their health and safety. Remember, once out, a Basenji is very difficult, if not impossible to get back. In most cases, they have no road sense, so one lapse in this commitment can be a death-sentence for your dog.
Natural hunters.... Basenjis are natural hunters. They will live with a cat if they grow up with it. But all other pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, birds or chooks will be 'fair game'. If your children expect to have one of these pets as well, a Basenji is probably not for you.
The cockies are hunted
and even butterflies!
It would be unfair to your Basenji to think you will be able to change their innate behaviour and prey drive if you have or decide to have one of these other pets.
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NGOZI Basenjis
Ngozi Basenjis - Owning a
Basenji
