The Basenji, the barkless dog, the silent hunter. This elegant hound breed originates from the Congo region of central Africa where it was used to seek out and round up game using sight and smell. A relatively small dog with distinguished looks and playful confidence, this breed would seem attractive to many owners looking for a faithful and intelligent companion. But is the Basenji a healthy breed? Is it truly silent and what sort of lifestyle is it most suited to?
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Breed Characteristics
Standing at around 40-43cm to the top of the shoulder and around 9-11kg in weight, the Basenji is a lightly built dog with a relatively deep chest and well-defined waist. Its short coat is detailed in the Kennel Club breed standard as being one of four colours; black and white, red and white, black tan and white, or brindle and white. Dogs of all colours will have white feet, chest and tail tip, and may also have white around the legs and collar area. With their tail curled tightly over the hip area and pricked, alert ears causing wrinkles across the head, the breed is described by the Basenji Club of Great Britain as wearing a “puzzled frown”. This frown, however, should not be taken as a sign of confusion, rather that of an independent thinker!
Temperament
The Basenji is naturally inquisitive, intelligent and confident but not naturally instantly obedient! Ruled by their independence and curiosity rather than a desire to please, these dogs can be quite difficult to train; particularly off the lead. They are prone to escape when the need to investigate kicks in, springing high into the air or climbing fencing if necessary to achieve this!
Despite their lack of bark, the Basenji is by no means silent. Like other dogs they can growl or whine, but when excited will let out an unusual yodelling sound! They may be faithful to, and protective of, their human family but can be quite indifferent towards strangers. Their strong hunting drive means that care must be taken around smaller animals and young children.
Care
With a short, shedding coat, a dislike of wet and cold weather, and a cat-like desire for cleanliness, Basenjis require relatively little grooming. A weekly brush over will likely be sufficient as the dog will usually lick themselves clean and use their front paws to tidy around their ears and face.
In terms of exercise, around an hour per day may be sufficient for this breed, who do also love to watch the world go by from the comfort of the best warm seat in the house! Further mental stimulation is likely to be needed though. The Basenji is an intelligent dog who may become destructive through boredom.
As with any breed, regular health checks, vaccinations, preventative treatments and dental care will be required, alongside a suitable healthy diet. Consideration should be given to the costs involved in this, as well as to taking out pet insurance. Contact your veterinary practice for further advice.
Health Considerations
In general, the Basenji could be considered a relatively healthy breed. They do, however, have some specific potential health problems to be aware of.
Fanconi Syndrome
A disorder of the kidneys which can be inherited through asymptomatic carriers (adult dogs showing no sign of the disease). This condition can occur in any breed but is more common in the Basenji. There is no treatment, only supportive management and the condition will ultimately result in kidney failure.
Persistent Pupillary Membranes (PPM)
Before birth, a thin membrane layer covers the pupil of the eye. This should disappear soon after birth but, in this condition, parts of the membrane remain, potentially affecting vision.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency
The lack of this enzyme can cause destruction of red blood cells, resulting in anaemia and lack of energy. Ultimately liver and bone marrow can be affected too.
Hip Dysplasia
Affecting one or both hips, hip dysplasia describes a poorly formed hip joint that can cause lameness and arthritis even in young dogs. Although not common in most lines, it has been recognised.
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid can lead to weight gain, low energy, irritability and poor skin/coat condition. It is manageable with lifelong medication.
Intestinal issues
An inflammatory bowel-type disease (immunoproliferative enteropathy) is seen more commonly in Basenjis than in some other breeds, but there are many factors at play here.
So how can we avoid these issues?
- DNA tests are available for Fanconi Syndrome, PRA and PKD. These tests are used to screen adult dogs before breeding with them. By avoiding breeding from carrier animals (those who appear healthy but carry a genetic mutation) breeders can reduce the risk of these conditions occurring in their offspring.
- Screening of adult dog eyes and hips before breeding can significantly reduce the risk of hip dysplasia and eye abnormalities in offspring. Puppies can also be assessed for PPM before being released by the breeder.
- Conditions such as hypothyroidism and inflammatory bowel disease can have many causes and influencing factors, which may or may not have an inherited component. A responsible breeder would not breed from an adult affected with either of these conditions, so enquiring about the medical history of the parents and even grandparents would be sensible when looking for a Basenji pup.
Suitable lifestyle
Due to its independent nature and strong hunting instincts, the Basenji may not be the best breed to consider for a first-time dog owner or a household with young children, cats or other small pets. However, a more experienced owner looking for a clever, playful and courageous companion may be well suited to the Basenji breed. Families with older children who are gentle and respectful may be well placed to meet the needs of this inquisitive breed. And puppies brought up with older children will usually bond well with the whole family.
As with any breed, finding a reputable breeder who screens for good health and absence of potentially inherited conditions is important. Ask to view the parents or other family members and learn about their health before considering taking on a puppy. Speak to your veterinary practice for advice on routine health care and plan financially for this and other possible medical needs.
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