About Basenji's - The not-so-bark-less dog
- Kiki Lee
- Aug 17, 2024
- 9 min read
Updated: Aug 31, 2024
A Basenji Introduction
The Basenji
An introduction to the Basenji dog
The Basenji, often referred to as Africa’s “Barkless Dog,” is a captivating breed known for its intelligence, poise, and distinctive vocalizations.
I fell in love with Basenji's when I adopted my Basenji / Australian Shepherd mix, Thor in 2016. You'll see a lot about Thor throughout this site and the linked social channels. Drop us a comment any time, we'd love to get to know you!
And now let’s explore Basenji origins, characteristics, and the delightful quirks that make them stand out as a breed you can love.
Basenji origins and appearance
Origins and Appearance
The Basenji is considered an ancient breed. Its roots trace back to central Africa, where they were bred as hunting dogs. These small, graceful hounds stand around 16 to 17 inches at the shoulder. Their most striking features include:
Height: 16-17 inches at the shoulder.
My Basenji / Australian Shepherd mix, Thor, stands near 20 inches in height at the shoulder, towering over his full bred Basenji friends. His father was around the same and his mother was much smaller and similar to a female brindle Basenji's height.
Coat: A glistening short coat that sheds minimally and doesn’t emit strong odors.
My Basenji / Australian Shepherd mix, Thor, sheds 2x annually and does collect odors like most shepherd. I've only met a few other owners of Basenji mixes, but collectively they do seem to take on the mixes' characteristics for fur habits.
Eyes: Expressive almond-shaped eyes that convey subtle, humanlike emotions.
Ears: Erect.
Tail: A tightly curled tail that rests gracefully over their back.
The tail extends during running, similar to a Cheetah's tail stretched straight out behind it like a rutter helping it steer and change directions.
Forehead: Wrinkled and cute, adding to their unique appearance.
Colors: As cited by the American Kennel Club - Basenjis come in various color combinations, including black & white, black, tan & white, brindle & white, as well as red and white.
Thor is a tri-colored mix and the white band doesn't fully wrap around his neck like full bred Basenjis.
Temperament: Alert, intelligent, and catlike in behavior.
Thor is a sassy dog more likely to grumble or throw his dog bowl at you if he's in a mood. He curls up like a cat and cleans himself multiple times a day in hidden spaces like behind or under furniture, in his crate, or in the sunniest spot in the house depending on the time of day.
Health: Generally healthy, but prone to certain conditions like Fanconi syndrome and hip dysplasia.
Exercise Needs: Similar to most dog breeds, Basenjis require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Thor is a great example of a lazy, catlike Basenji. He only wants attention if it's not given to him. He's only likely to run when he's provoked another dog or a human into chasing him. He used to do this at the dog parks by nipping at other dogs heels until they would chase him all over the park.
The Basenji Bark-less mystery
The Bark-less Mystery
Yes, you read that right—Basenjis don’t bark! Or at least that's what the science says. Instead, they produce an unusual yodel-like sound due to their distinctively shaped larynx. Imagine a chortle or grumble mixed with a yodel, and you have the Basenji’s signature sound.
My Basenji / Australian Shepherd mix, Thor vocalizes in a number of crazy ways, short grunts, barks, yodels, screams, and grumbles depending on his need. However, he's mostly silent throughout his days, only creating noise when he's excited by a toy or food or alerted by a stranger. Scroll down to visit his social channels to hear some of those noises.
Basenji Fun Facts
Fun Facts
Let’s sprinkle some delightful tidbits about these charming Basenji canines:
Self-Grooming: Basenjis are fastidious groomers, much like cats. They’ll meticulously clean themselves, maintaining their sleek appearance. Thor cleans himself at least 3x a day.
Catlike Independence: Basenjis exhibit a cat’s independence. They’re affectionate but not clingy, preferring to maintain their dignity. Thor will reject everyone and everything until you're not paying attention to him, then he'll saunter over and lay on your computer, book, workout equipment, or lunch. Whatever you're focused on instead of him, he'll try to sway you from that silly distraction.
Mini-Racehorse Stride: Watch them trot, and you’ll witness their long, smooth strides reminiscent of mini-racehorses. Thor runs as graceful as a deer, unless you say "food" as he's mid run, then he's as likely to trip as a cartoon character running across a banana.
Basenji Health & Nutrition
Basenji Health and Nutrition
Basenjis are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can develop health problems throughout their life depending on their quality of life, their breeding, and many external factors.
Here are some common health issues that Basenjis may face:
Kidney Problems: Basenjis are prone to kidney conditions such as Fanconi syndrome (a genetic kidney disorder) and Inflammatory Polyps Syndrome of the Intestine and Colon (IPSID).
Hypothyroidism: Basenjis can develop an underactive thyroid gland, leading to symptoms like weight gain and lethargy.
Vision Problems: Basenjis may experience various vision issues, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and corneal dystrophy.
Joint Problems: Conditions like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation can cause lameness and arthritis.
Infections: Basenjis are susceptible to bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections.
Malabsorption Syndromes: These can lead to diarrhea and weight loss.
Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent or manage many of these health issues12. Remember, staying informed and proactive ensures your Basenji lives a long and healthy life! 🐾
Resources to learn more:
Similar to you, Basenjis have unique nutritional needs that contribute to their overall health and well-being. Here are some essential considerations for feeding your Basenji:
High-Quality Protein: Basenjis require a diet rich in high-quality protein for muscle development, repair, and growth. Opt for lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish, as well as plant-based sources like lentils and quinoa1.
Healthy Fats: Provide moderate amounts of healthy fats to support their active lifestyle. Sources like fish oil, flaxseed, and coconut oil contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Allergens and Sensitivities: Basenjis may be sensitive to certain ingredients. Observe their reactions and avoid common allergens like wheat, corn, beef, or dairy. Consult with a veterinarian for personalized recommendations1. Check out our Instagram or YouTube for research we share from veterinarians about human-foods that are good or bad to feed your dog.
Age and Life Stage: Adjust their diet based on age—puppies need frequent meals, while adults can have one full meal and a snack during the day2. Thor is in his mid-life and manages on 1 to 2.5 cups of food per day and the cups vary depending on the time of year and the exercise he's getting. During the summer months for example, he's indoors a lot more due to the excessive heat and he doesn't run as much. He usually only gets through about a cup and a half a day during the summers.
Monitor Portions: Basenjis can be prone to obesity, so monitor portion sizes and ensure regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight3. Thor is a great example of this, he puts on weight swiftly, but loses it just as swiftly, we monitor his diet daily to ensure he's not over or under eating and adjust based on the amount of exercise he's getting. Always consult your vet if you're unsure.
By understanding these factors, you can choose a balanced diet that keeps your Basenji thriving! 🐾
Resources to learn more:
For adult Basenjis, feeding them once a day is generally sufficient. However, some owners prefer to split the daily portion into two smaller meals.
Puppies require more frequent meals—around three to four times a day. Remember to adjust portion sizes based on your Basenji’s age, activity level, and overall health.
Consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations! 🐾
Hydrating your Basenji is crucial, as water constitutes approximately 56% of an adult Basenji’s body weight (73% of lean body mass).
Here’s a simple guideline for water intake:
Daily Requirement: According to PetMD, a dog should drink 50 milliliters of water per kilogram of body weight.
For instance, a 22 lb Basenji needs about 2.1 cups of water each day, assuming it's not highly active.
Thor is 34-36 lb (15-16 kg) Basenji and drinks about 15.2 cups a week or roughly 2.17 cups of water daily
Remember that activity level matters too. Very active Basenjis may need more water.
Use the Basenji water calculator created by below to estimate daily water needs based on your Basenji’s weight and activity level:
Basenji Water Calculator:
Your Basenji’s Weight: [Enter weight in pounds or kilograms]
Activity Level: [Choose low, medium, or high]
Daily Water Requirement: [Calculated result]
Keep an eye on your Basenji’s water intake—it’s essential for their well-being! 🐾
Adding ice cubes to your Basenji’s water bowl during hot weather is a great idea. It helps keep the water cool and refreshing, encouraging them to drink more.
Ensure that the ice cubes are small enough to prevent any choking hazards. Hydration is essential, any time of year. 🐾
1: PetCalculator - Basenji Water Drinking Guide
Keeping your Basenji cool and comfortable during hot weather is essential for keeping them healthy, hydrated, and avoiding any issues with their paw pads.
Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
Provide Plenty of Water: Ensure your Basenji has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Hydration is crucial to prevent overheating and dehydration1.
Shade and Rest Areas: Create shaded spots using trees, umbrellas, or a covered patio. Basenjis need a cool place to rest during the heat of the day1.
Ceramic or Marble Tiles: These surfaces retain coolness longer and can be helpful for regulating body temperature. Place them in areas where your Basenji likes to relax2.
Limit Exercise: Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. Early mornings or evenings are better for walks and playtime.
Cooling Mats or Towels: Use specially designed cooling mats or damp towels to help your Basenji cool down.
Frozen Treats: Offer frozen treats like ice cubes with a hint of chicken or beef broth. It’s a refreshing way to keep them hydrated.
Remember, observing your Basenji’s behavior and adjusting accordingly will ensure their well-being in hot weather! 🐾
If your Basenji has sensitive skin or allergies, here are some steps you can take to keep them comfortable:
Hypoallergenic Shampoo: Use a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo specifically designed for sensitive skin. Regular baths can help remove allergens and soothe any irritation.
Allergen-Free Bedding: Choose bedding made from hypoallergenic materials to reduce contact with potential allergens.
Dietary Adjustments: Consult your veterinarian to identify any food allergies. Switch to a high-quality, limited-ingredient diet that avoids common allergens.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Be cautious with cleaning products, insecticides, and lawn treatments. Basenjis with sensitive skin may react to these substances.
Regular Skin Checks: Inspect your Basenji’s skin regularly for signs of redness, itching, or rashes. Address any issues promptly.
Remember, personalized advice from your vet is essential for managing skin sensitivities and allergies! 🐾
Basenji - Breeders & Rescues
Basenji Breeders and Rescues
Search the American Kennel Club Marketplace for Basenji Breeders.
Where Are They Most Common?
While Basenjis are relatively rare, they have found devoted admirers worldwide. However, their origins tie closely to Africa, where they were revered for their hunting prowess.
In some articles and text, I've read that they have hunted lions. I can tell you my dog Thor can barely hunt squirrels. But he does an excellent job of capturing spiders and cockroaches for which he is handsomely rewarded for his efforts with an abundance of treats.
Today, you’ll find Basenjis in various countries, and I've linked to some excellent Basenji resources throughout this article if you're interested in finding reputable breeders or rescuing your own little yodeling fiend friend.
Check out our article on how much Basenjis cost and where to find Basenjis across the United States.
Basenji Conclusion
Conclusion
In summary, the Basenji is a captivating breed that combines elegance, intelligence, and a mysterious lack of barking according to many websites. However, in my experience, Basenji's are quite vocal with howls, grumbles, and screams.
Whether you’re drawn to their unique vocalizations or their graceful deerlike prancing and beautiful appearance, owning a Basenji is a rewarding experience—one that connects you to a rich African heritage.
Remember, if you ever meet a Basenji, greet them with a friendly chortle-yodel—they’ll appreciate it! I'm kidding, that will be extra weird, and their owners will flee in fear of you...I do NOT know this from personal experience... 🐾
Stay weird and get a Basenji! They're a great dog.
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