A dog that doesn't bark - description of the Basenji breed, reviews from owners, character and photos. Basenji dog description of the Basenji breed description of the breed

Basenji (or African non-barking dog) so named due to its unique feature. She can't bark. Occasionally she makes her own sounds, similar to rumbling, howling, muffled laughter and even yodeling. This is an ancient breed (about 5000 years old) of semi-wild dog and is now found in the African jungle. It was not bred by humans and is capable of hunting on its own.

	Training
	Mind
	Moult
	Guard qualities
	Security qualities
	Popularity
	Size
	Agility
	Attitude towards children

Basenjis live in small packs, but they are not afraid of people and can often be found around the fire of African pygmies, who use them for hunting. The "African silent one" is a clean, sociable, affectionate and playful dog– an excellent companion.

Breed standards and description

Basenjis belong to a group of primitive dogs. They have a graceful, aristocratic appearance with thin bones and high legs. The tail is tightly curled towards the back in one or two rings and fits tightly to the body. The head, with abundant wrinkles on the forehead and erect ears, is set high.

Proportional body with a short back and deep sternum. The coat is smooth, short, very fine and dense. The color is distinctly black and piebald or with tan; red-piebald; with markings on the muzzle, above the eyes and cheekbones; brindle (red with black stripes). According to the standard, white markings should be on the chest, paws and tip of the tail. White legs, a white collar and a marking on the head are also found.

Height at withers is from 40 to 43 cm, weight is 9.5-11 kg. The litters are small; on average, Basenjis give birth to 4-5 puppies. Lives on average 10-12 years.

Basenji character

This is always a balanced, intelligent and attentive dog. She is devoted to her beloved owner, but is always vigilant and wary. Notable for its cleanliness. She will not allow herself to be stroked by a stranger. But he won’t grin and growl either. If the Basenji doesn’t like something, she will simply avoid contact and leave. But this is not fear. This breed, on the contrary, is distinguished by fearlessness and curiosity.

She has very highly developed hunting instincts and an extremely sensitive sense of smell. Therefore, you should not pull the dog back when it carefully sniffs the bush. This is how she reads the information she needs. You will get used to a new person and take a closer look before you start trusting him. But Basenjis are never aggressive towards humans. Therefore, they are very reliable companions even for inexperienced dog owners and for families with children of any age.

In dog society, everything will be the other way around - the Basenji will strive to dominate.

Features of the Basenji dog breed

As already noted, Basenjis do not bark, but make their own sounds depending on the situation. They also do not have an unpleasant “dog” smell and practically do not shed. Since it is a semi-wild animal, it is quite healthy.

The most common diseases are urolithiasis disease and cataracts. It is very important for the Basenji to constantly run. Movement is vital for them, as they are fast, very active, extremely fast hunting dogs. If they are deprived of movement by locking them in an apartment, they may lose heart. Basenjis are highly trainable. But at the same time, they should not be offended at all, nor should physical punishment or intimidation be used. The only way to reach this dog's heart and mind is through positive reinforcement and encouragement. Also, the dog becomes uninterested in doing the same thing, so it should not be tired of frequent repetitions of commands.

The non-barking bush dog or Basenji is one of the most hypoallergenic breeds. A cheerful dog with an easy-going character is more reminiscent of a smooth-haired fox. In terms of cleanliness, only cats can compare with the forest Basenji.

History of the Basenji breed

The Basenji's birthplace is central Africa. The roots of the breed go far back. The Egyptians believed that this dog protected people from evil spirits. It is known that a puppy of this breed was considered an expensive gift and was presented to the pharaohs.

For the first time, a description of the breed is found in the drawings and writings of the ancient Greeks. Throughout its existence appearance The dogs have changed little. The breed was brought to England in 1895. But the first dogs did not survive the road and quickly died. In 1905, forest dogs were brought to a zoo in Germany. But dogs were perceived as exotic animals and belonged to the family of African wolves. In 1930, this dog breed spread to England and in 1964 a specific standard for the African non-barking dog was drawn up.

The breed came to Russia and Ukraine at the end of 1990. The forest dog from the Congo quickly took root in Russia and Ukraine and began to be used as a companion.

Description of forest species

The Basenji dog is not a timid breed. The dog is self-confident with a stable psyche. Suitable for a person who is interested in the outdoors and active recreation.

The blood of African wolves flows in the dog’s veins, this is manifested in every movement of the dog. A neat, flexible and dexterous pet is suitable for participation in a new sport - agility. The movements of the African barking dog are smooth and swift. If you arrange the pins, your pet can easily walk between them and not drop any of them. In the Congo, this voiceless dog is valued as a hunting dog.

It was not for nothing that the breed was considered a living amulet for humans. The dog is sensitive and monitors the mood of its owner. This behavior makes the dog indispensable for a lonely elderly person or as a friend for a teenager. The African non-barking dog has a stable psyche and an adequate reaction to external stimuli.

Features of the breed are silence. The Egyptian Basenji does not bark, but shows its emotions in the form of a howl, which is more reminiscent of a quiet growl. There is a legend among the peoples of Africa that tells why Basenjis do not bark. It says that in ancient times dogs of this breed could speak. But one day they overheard the secret of people and, in order not to give away the secret, the pets chose to remain silent for centuries.

Breed standard from Congo (appearance)

The breed standard must meet the following requirements:

Bodybuilding. Light, not large. Well developed muscles and limbs.
Back. Smooth, not wide, but well developed. The withers are higher than the croup, but not significantly.
Paws. Straight and long. The hindquarters, above the hock, are longer than the lower part. The hock joints are well developed.
Neck. Not long, with developed muscles, not thin, but not thick either.
Head. Triangular in shape with a wide base.
Forehead. Wide, when the ears are raised, folds form on the forehead.
Muzzle. Does not have a clear transition from the forehead, tapers towards the nose. The bridge of the nose is not long, straight. Lobe with wide nostrils.
Lips. Meaty, but without jowls. Fit tightly to the jaw.
Eyes. Wide set triangular shape. Top part eyes slightly raised. Eye color ranges from light gray to black. More often there are dogs with dark brown and light sandy eyes.
Ears. Widely spaced, triangular, when brought together, deep wrinkles form on the forehead. The ears are set low, but mobile and erect.
Tail. High-ranking, twisted into a tight ring. Animals with straight or insufficiently curled tails are rejected.
Wool. Short and stiff spine that fits tightly to the body. Absolutely hypoallergenic. There is no dog smell either.
Color. The standard allows for four basenji colors: black and white, red and white, tricolor consisting of rich black and black and red tan around the eyes, on the cheekbones - brindle with a red-red base and black stripes. Regardless of color, the chest, paws and tip of the tail are white. Markings on the face and tail may be missing. White never predominates over the main color of a dog's coat.
Dimensions. The height at the withers of an adult male can reach 43 cm; females are smaller and grow up to 40 cm.
Weight. By the age of one year, the dog reaches a weight of 9.5 to 11 kg.

How long unusual Egyptian dogs live depends on the climate and care. The average life expectancy of a Basenji is 11 to 14 years.

There are usually 4 to 5 puppies in a litter.

Characteristics of the Basenji

The pros and cons of a pet are related to the peculiarity of its character:

The dog loves its owner, but from time to time it demonstrates its independence to him. This is manifested by shoots during walks. Cables run off more often, bitches are more attached to the owner.
The pet reacts well to other animals in the house, but does not like rodents and birds. A small dog can also be killed if you bring it into the house of an already adult Basenji.
The African dog loves active games and happily runs after a stick and catches a plate.
Does not like dirt and water. During walks, he bypasses puddles and often washes himself with his paw, like a cat.
The dog has predominant hunting instincts, and during walks the dog may chase a cat or bird. During an imaginary hunt, it does not respond to the commands of the owner.
Treats children well, and thanks to dexterity and caution during play, will not harm younger children. But he will not allow himself to be dragged by the tail and ruffled.
It is wary of strangers, but it will not be able to scare an uninvited guest, since it does not bark, but purrs and howls.
The breed is affectionate and loves attention; it prefers to spend all its free time cuddling with its owner.
Likes to lie on the couch or bed. Due to its hypoallergenic qualities, such liberties are allowed for an adult pet.
Not suitable as guard dog or bodyguard.

Care and maintenance of the Egyptian dog

A smooth-haired dog without an undercoat is not suitable for street keeping. But the dog prefers space, so a private house with a small lawn is considered the best option for a basenji. The dog is small in size and can be kept in an apartment, but daily walking is required.

The oldest African breed has good immunity, but genetically the pet is predisposed to the following pathologies:

Kidney disease - Fanconi syndrome. The disease is poorly diagnosed at an early stage and manifests itself already severe form. Usually appears in older dogs after 7 years of age.
Reduced absorption of nutrients - Malabsorption. Pathology associated with poor performance small intestine. Develops against the background of food allergies.
Hernia. The most common form of hernia is the umbilical form. It appears in the form of a bulge on the abdomen. If the lump has darkened and acquired a red tint, then immediate surgical intervention is required.

A pet of an ancient breed rarely gets sick with viral and bacterial diseases. As a preventive measure, puppies are vaccinated against parainfluenza, enteritis, and distemper before changing teeth.

African Bush Terrier Training

The African Mum Mum Terrier is easy to train. But from the age of six months, the puppy begins to test the owner’s strength and will try to dominate. It is necessary to be firm, but not to punish the puppy.

The first training begins immediately after the pet arrives in the house. From the first days it is necessary to teach the puppy to respond to its name. It is important that the nickname is sonorous and short. This will make it easier for your pet to remember it and begin to respond. While feeding or playing, you need to pet the puppy and pronounce the name loudly and clearly. When the dog begins to react, it is worth praising it.

Up to a year, the dog learns basic commands: sit, lie, walk, ugh, come to me, next to me. Training will be easier if you enroll in a specialized group with an experienced dog handler.

You cannot punish or beat a puppy for disobedience. This will cause a backlash, and the animal will begin to fear the owner.

It will be useful:

Feeding the Basenji

A dog with a tendency to food allergies is kept on specialized food. Suitable brands: Magnusson Naturliga (Original), Pronature Life Chill, Pronature Life Fit, Adult Maintenance, Royal Farm.

What to feed the pet depends on the capabilities of the owner. And it is not always possible to use dry food every day. The Basenji can be kept on natural food. The diet of an adult dog should include the following foods:

kefir, cottage cheese;
lean meats;
offal;
cereals: corn, buckwheat, rice;
vegetables and fruits.

Puppies come off the bitch's chest gradually at the age of 1-1.5 months. At the initial stage, the puppy should be fed 5-6 times a day. The basis of the diet is liquid porridge with anti-allergenic infant formula. By 3 months, meat broths and fermented milk products are added to the diet. The number of feedings is reduced to four times. By 6–7 months, the dog is switched to three meals a day. By 8 months, the number of servings is reduced to two.

Dogs on natural food are given vitamins daily: Farmavit Neo, 8 In 1 Excel Daily Multi-Vitamin, VEDA, Biorhythm.

Video

Photo

The photo shows a black and white Basenji. The dog's predominant color is black, the coloring is bright and quite rare.

The most common color is fiery red and white. The dog looks more like a small fox.

The brindle dog looks unusual and is considered one of the most attractive.

Hello, dear readers!

The Basenji is an ancient dog breed that originated in central Africa more than 5,000 years ago. It owes its emergence not to selection, but to natural selection. In this article you can read a description of the breed, see photos, find out the price and reviews of the owners of the breed. Animals have characteristics, one of which is the absence of barking. Instead of the usual “gaf-gaf”, they rumble or seem to laugh stifledly.

The Basenji is called “the non-barking dog from Africa” or “the silent one”. However, he has many other nicknames: “Congolese bush dog”, “forest dog from the Congo”, “Congo terrier”, “nyam-nyam terrier”, “dog of the Zande people”, “creature from the forest thickets”. In the old days in Africa it was used for hunting, even lions. The dogs gathered in packs and drove the beast into nets. Currently, in the Congo, the Basenji dog is still taken for hunting. Today it is very popular in the world as a companion dog. Royalty of many countries keep these animals at court.

Basenjis are characterized by the fact that they do not bark, but purr, and then only in moments of excitement. Why can’t Basenjis bark? In Africa local residents this is explained as follows: “In ancient times, when all the animals and birds could talk, the Basenji leader unwittingly witnessed an important event for people. To prevent what they saw from leaking outside the pack, the Basenji swore to secrecy and remained silent forever.”

Despite their small size, the dogs have a bright and attractive appearance. They look aristocratic and elegant. They move quickly with wide steps, while their back remains straight. Throughout their ancient history, the appearance of the dogs has remained unchanged. Animals have unique wrinkles on their foreheads that appear when their ears close together. Distinctive feature The breed also has a tail that is tightly curled into a ring. Dogs do not have a dog smell and have much in common with representatives of the cat family:

often wash themselves like a cat - with their paws;
step quietly and softly;
They don’t mind going to the toilet in a litter box, so they are easy to keep in an ordinary apartment.

History of the Basenji breed

When excavating Egyptian tombs, archaeologists find paintings on the walls depicting Basenjis and mummies of dogs. This shows great respect for animals. Basenjis were buried with honor along with their owners, the pharaohs. The Egyptians attributed to them the ability to protect against evil forces and kept them near them as a living talisman. Similar burials were found in the Nile Valley in the Nubian region, south of Aswan.

Animals were first exported from Africa to England at the end of the 19th century, but this batch of dogs did not survive. In the 30s of the 20th century, the attempt was successfully repeated. The breed standard used today was established in this country. Already in 1937, the Basenji breed was demonstrated at an exhibition in America under the working name “Congo Terrier”. The dog was noticed and appreciated for its intelligence, aristocratic appearance, easy-going and easy-going character. In 1941, the United States purchased a pair of dogs from Africa for breeding. Then the animals began to spread throughout to the globe. In our country, they began to get divorced from the end of the 20th century.

Breed standards

The coat is short, thick and lies close to the body. It is thin and has a beautiful shine. Sheds.
The body is strong with developed smooth muscles.
The head is medium.
The neck is long and muscular.
The chest is medium wide.
The ears are erect and slightly tilted forward.
The nose tapers towards the end and is crowned with a black lobe.
The eyes have a dark iris and are shaped like tonsils. The dog looks smart and understanding.
The limbs are high. The front ones slightly “look” inward.
The tail is tightly curled into a ring.

Basenji height and weight

There is a plain and forest Basenji (pygmy). The plains dog is somewhat larger than the forest dog. The Pygmy dog also has darker colored eyes.

Plain

Height at withers:

males - 43 cm;
females - 40 cm.

males - 11 cm;
females - 9.5 cm.

Lesnaya (pygmy)

It has a height at the withers of less than 40 cm. It is much lighter in weight than its counterpart.

Basenji character

These are loyal, brave and determined animals. They are smart and affectionate. Balanced and non-conflict, they get along well with people and are equally attached to all its members. They obey the owner unconditionally and are always ready to protect him, as well as his family. They enjoy playing with children, but will not tolerate children's pranks, for example, pulling their ears or tail. Therefore, children cannot be left alone with them.

They will be friends with dogs of the same breed and with other animals if they accept the Basenji as a leader - dogs of this breed tend to dominate. If another dog starts a fight on the street, the Basenji, driven by the instinct of self-preservation, will not be provoked and will calmly pass by.

Dogs are extremely active, even rather reactive - this is the key to their health. They move easily and beautifully. They make excellent exhibitors. Due to hyperactivity, dogs should not be left alone at home for a long time. Otherwise, upon arriving home, the owner will see surprises in the form of overturned and chewed furniture, torn wallpaper and other troubles.

The hunting sense of dogs is genetic and, without being guard dogs, they easily feel threatened by loved ones. At the same time, the Basenji stands on its hind legs and rumbles desperately, warning the owner of the danger. The highly developed instinct of a hunter sometimes prevents them from hearing while pursuing prey. Therefore, to prevent escape, it is recommended to wear a leash on your dog while walking.

Basenji training

Basenjis are one of the 14 oldest dogs on Earth. They are also called primitive, i.e. arising not as a result of selection, but through natural selection. In this regard, they have features that must be taken into account when:

During training, Basenjis often ignore the calling command “come to me.”
have an extremely fast reaction and instantly accelerate from a standstill, developing incredibly high speed.
temporary lack of sound perception in a dog.

Before starting training, you need to study the character of your pet and learn to anticipate its behavior. It would be a good idea to read specialized literature, watch videos, visit the Basenji owner forum and consult with a dog handler.

To avoid creating a dangerous environment for others, it is necessary to teach the dog to understand the limits of what is acceptable. The very first command to remember should be the calling command “come to me”; the dog must fulfill it from the first request. The dog must respond to its name.

The Basenji easily remembers commands, but approval and encouragement are very important to him. This could be stroking, kind word or treats. A clicker can be used for positive reinforcement. You cannot shout at your pet and punish it - the dog will withdraw and ignore commands. Let the dog's punishment be a disapproving look from the owner and lack of encouragement. Only patience and warmth friendly attitude to help your pet achieve success in training.

How long do Basenjis live?

The life expectancy of the Basenji is 10–13.5 years.

What to feed the Basenji

Up to 9 months, puppies eat premium food. Then they begin to be fed natural food, alternating every day. Dogs are very voracious and easily gain excess weight, so it is important not to overfeed them.

The diet includes:

Cereals cooked in water without salt. Preference is given to rice and buckwheat. Pea porridge should not be given.
Raw meat - beef, veal, horse meat, roe meat. Lean pulp is used as the main food; bones are given once a week.
By-products are well-cooked.
Boiled sea fish.
Boiled vegetables.
Egg - 1-2 times a week.
Products from sour milk.
Fruits.
Multivitamins.

Food for your pets can be purchased.

Basenji and allergies

Dogs are not capable of causing allergies.

Photo of Basenji dog breed

Basenji dog not barking

Basenji dog breed video

Basenji sings

Basenji breed colors

Red combined with white;
Deep black combined with white;
Tricolor (black with red and tan markings, with spots above the eyes and on the muzzle);
Brindle (black stripes on red-red color).

Regardless of coloring, the paws, chest and end of the tail remain white. There is always much less white color than the main color. Color boundaries should be clear, and the colors themselves should be rich.
Red combined with white
Black and white
Dog color tricolor
Dog color brindle

Basenji diseases

Dogs have strong immunity and good health, but, like any other animals, they are predisposed to certain diseases:

Kidney diseases - Fanconi syndrome and urolithiasis;
Eye diseases - retinal atrophy and cataracts;
Entropy (with protein loss) - when, for various reasons, plasma protein is removed from the body through the gastrointestinal tract.

Fanconi syndrome in Basenji

Kidney disease, characterized by atrophy of the reabsorption function of the renal canals. Provokes the appearance of: glucose in the blood, the formation of stones, disruption of the interaction of amino acids with urine, imbalance of water-salt metabolism. The disease is incurable, you can only support your life. It is important to determine the presence of the disease as early as possible. But, unfortunately, it is difficult to diagnose at an early stage, so cases are frequent deaths among dogs. Basenjis aged 4-7 years are especially susceptible to the disease, so breeders try not to breed individuals under 4 years of age.

Symptoms of the disease

Unbearable thirst;
Frequent bowel movements Bladder;
High concentration of glucose in the blood.

Diagnosed by taking a urine test for sugar. If the syndrome is present, the urine will contain glucose (blood sugar levels will be normal). If blood is also detected increased content sugar, then the dog clearly has diabetes, and not Fanconi syndrome. Basenjis rarely suffer from diabetes.

Treatment

Monthly blood donation from a vein for content analysis nutrients;
Taking microelements in tablets (30 pieces per day) - phosphorus, calcium, etc. - to maintain vital functions.

How long does a Basenji's heat last?

Primitive dogs, which include the Basenji, “flow” as they please. They can flow twice a year with a six-month interval, or they can take a break for a year and a half. This makes planning difficult.

Clothes for Basenji

These dogs are small in size with very short, non-warming fur, so in winter and autumn-spring they need warm clothing. Basenjis wear woolen sweaters, raincoats, jackets, overalls, etc. Usually, things are custom-made for each dog, for which the following measurements are taken:

As a rule, shoes are put on a dog in special cases, for example, a trip to an exhibition. But some owners put shoes on their pets every day. This is not prohibited, but gradualness is necessary - the animal is accustomed to feeling the surface of the earth with the pads of its feet. For convenience, it is better to sew shoes to order. When buying ready-made shoes in a store, you must have the centimeter size of your pet's paw with you.

Basenji dog price

“Show” class puppies cost 30,000 rubles, “breed” - from 25,000 rubles, “pit” - from 15,000 rubles. “Show” individuals are potential winners of competitions, have a pedigree and the right to produce offspring. Puppies of the “breed” class do not have the right to participate in exhibitions due to implicit deficiencies that are invisible to the unprofessional eye. They have the right to give birth to offspring. “Pit” cutlets have obvious cosmetic defects. They do not have the right to participate in exhibitions, but they can reproduce.

You can buy a Basenji puppy at the Basenji nursery or on Avito. You can also purchase goods for your pet.

Thanks to natural selection, minimal care, and free-living, the most ancient aboriginal dog breeds were formed. These are Eskimo and Amur huskies, Australian dingoes, caucasian shepherd dogs, Central Asian basins. There are fewer and fewer breeds that have retained their primitive characteristics, which makes it even more interesting for lovers rare dogs"Gift of Africa" - Basenji.

Basenji dogs ) still live in villages in Central African countries: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Sudan, Republic of Benin, Tanzania, Gabon, Uganda, Zambia.

Depending on the place, the breed is called differently: “gift of the gods”, “creature from the bush”, forest dog, “dog jumping up and down”, African silent dog, Zande dog, Azande dog, nyam-nyam terrier.

Researchers of the breed estimate its age from five to eight thousand years. It is reliably known that dogs were presented as a gift to the pharaohs as a living amulet, giving joy and protecting against magic and witchcraft.

Egyptologists suggest that they were part of the cult of the god Ra. Images of dogs, outwardly very similar to basenji, are often found on bas-reliefs in the burials of pharaohs, on household and religious utensils. Several figurines and even embalmed bodies of Basenji have been found. One of the mummies was found at the feet of an ancient Nubian woman (Kerma settlement), others in the tomb of the pharaoh of the 5th dynasty (2504-2347 BC).

Distribution of the Basenji breed and photographs of dogs

The first Basenji, under the name "Pharaoh dog", was brought to Europe by the British in 1895. Not knowing the characteristics of the breed and content, the first owners did not keep the pets. All dogs died from a viral disease.

Basenji dogs and their photos

Photo. Basenji dogs

For a while they forgot about the “Pharaoh’s Hound”. In Europe, it reappears only at the beginning of the 20th century as an exhibit of the Berlin Zoo.

In the 30s they reappeared in England, where the breed standard was drawn up and approved. From England, dogs of the Congo Terrier breed, "jungle dogs" came to the USA in 1941. Breeders became interested in the ancient breed and the breed began to spread around the world.

The breed was officially registered in 1988 by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) and classified as Spitz and Primitive (Group 5), Section 6 (Primitive), No. 43, without working test.

Basenjis appeared in Russia in 1997. Active breeding work is currently underway. Several nurseries have been opened in Moscow and the Moscow region, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Chelyabinsk, Smolensk, Vladivostok.

Important. The official name of the breed - "basenji", in essence, is an abbreviation for the name of these dogs in the Lingala tribe - "m'ba na basenji" ("dog of the bush dwellers"). It was invented by Miss O. Byrne, the owner of a dog that participated in the first American dog show.

Purpose of the breed

Basenji is an excellent hunter

Until now, African tribes use basenji to hunt cane rats, flying and waterfowl. Chasing prey, African dogs are able to jump high and climb trees. Basenjis, with bells worn around their necks, drive small-sized game into nets. They hunt antelopes in packs.

In France, they hunt hares with Basenjis. The dogs manage to catch up and hold the prey before the hunter arrives.

In the World Canine Federation registry, the purpose of the Basenji is designated as a companion and hunter dog.

In Russia, Basenjis play the role of companions. Attracts exoticism ancient history, “natural” origin, compact size. For many, the absence of undercoat, short hair and hypoallergenicity of the dog is important. The Basenji has preserved hunting quality- no smell.

One of characteristic features breed - inability to bark. Africans are not barking dogs or African silent ones make rumbling, “purring”, sounds similar to strangled laughter, howling.

According to legend, at a time when animals could still talk, a dog heard innermost secret their master and in order not to let it slip, the Basenji and his fellow tribesmen took an oath and fell silent forever.

Most likely, the silence of African dogs is the result of natural selection. Soundlessness and silence are the main conditions for successful hunting.

Basenji breed standards and appearance

Basenjis are not spoiled by artificial selection. They are hunters, so they have well-developed muscles and a light, graceful physique.

This breed is not spoiled by selection.

The official standard gives the following description:

Ideal weight for a female it is considered 9.5 kg (21 lb), height - 40 cm (16 inches) at the withers. Males weigh 10-11 kg (23-24 lbs), height at withers 43 cm (17 inches).
Frame Well balanced, strong but not bulky. The back is short, straight, even. Rib cage round, wide, with convex ribs. The chest is deep, smoothly turning into a lean belly. The loin is short. The muscles and bones are strong and strong.
Head flat, graceful. The skull is of medium width, tapering evenly towards the nose, slightly longer than the muzzle, with flat cheekbones and a smooth slope from the forehead to the bridge of the nose. Characteristic breeds - thin, not loose wrinkles on the forehead, on the sides of the head, on the cheeks, running along anatomical lines. In adult dogs they are less noticeable than in puppies.
Ears erect, pointed, with a slight forward inclination, medium size.
The eyes are dark (brown), expressive, almond-shaped, slightly slanted. Eyelids dark.
Nose black, narrow.
Jaws strong, well developed. The incisors are straight and lined up. Full bite, perfect. The anterior surface of the lower incisors closely meets the upper incisors(scissor bite). The jaw position of the teeth is vertical.
Neck tall, strong, with a slight bend, middle length, expanding towards the body. The scruff is convex.
Tail set high, always with one or two rings, pressed to the body. The croup is raised high, protruding beyond the base of the tail.
Limbs long, tall, muscular. The forelimbs have oblique muscular shoulder blades. The forearms are long and graceful. According to the standard, the elbows should be turned strictly back, without turning outward or inward. Pasterns flexible, elongated. Hind legs with hocks dropped low and not close together. The hock joints should not be turned outward. The knees are moderately pronounced. The shins are elongated.

Basenjis have very well developed intelligence.

Paws small, narrow, oval-shaped. The front paws are slightly oriented inward. Fingers are arched. The pads are rough and fleshy. The claws are short.
Wool the Basenji's coat is short, glossy, close to the body, without undercoat.
In males two developed testes completely immersed in the scrotum.
Sweeping movements, energetic, rhythmic. The back is smooth and straight when moving.
Character light, very energetic, loyal, responsive to affection. Developed intellect.

What colors of the breed are found, photos

There are six types of color:

black;
black and white;
black and white with cream markings and spots above the eyes, on the cheekbones and muzzle (tricolor);
brown-white;
red-fawn with black stripes (brindle);
red and white.

Photo. Basenji brindle, black, red

Basenji dog breed, color, red and white

Clear white markings on paws, chest and tip of tail are required. Fawn markings are not considered a fault. Predominance white over the main color is not allowed. The stripes and tans of brindle and tricolor dogs must have clearly defined boundaries.

Small scattered spots (speckles), a dark mask on the face, fuzzy, blurry stripes in brindle-colored dogs, dull, indistinct black color (blue), red spots or marks in black and white with cream and tan color (trindle) are considered defective.

Important. The brindle color is recognized only in countries that are members of the FCI.

Breed varieties

At home, there are two subspecies of Basenja:

flat (savannah) - tall, at the withers no less than 40 cm, predominantly red-brown, light brown in color with white markings;
forest (pygmy) - less than 40 cm at the withers, with darker pigmentation of the coat and eyes than those of savannah relatives.

Raising and training Basenji dogs

Contrary to myth, Basenjis are easy to train. With careful attention to the characteristics of the breed and temperament, the dogs perfectly complete the general training course (GTC), the controlled city dog course (UCD), and obedience (obedience, OB). Elegant and hardy Basenjis look great in dancing with dogs (freestyle), in dog racing (coursing), overcoming obstacle courses (agility), and at exhibitions.

The Basenji is quite easy to train.

When raising and training a Basenji, you should remember a few rules:

Constant reinforcement with encouragement, treats and approval is required.
During training, change tasks frequently. Basenjis quickly get tired of monotony and monotony.
They can't stand being shouted at.“Mild assault” is quite acceptable - a tap on the nose for stealing or begging for a handout, bending to the ground for showing unjustified aggression. You should not hit the dog.
Basenjis obey their pack leader unconditionally. But for unquestioning obedience it is necessary to prove who is boss in the house. In the pack, the dominant place belongs to females, they are more willing to obey women.
Successful training requires a balance between strictness and “free will” of the dog. The formula “I am the master, you are the slave,” as with many service breeds, does not work with them.
There is no point in pampering Africans too much. They perceive it as weakness.
They like to occupy a higher place both at home and on walks. It must be weaned from puppyhood. So that the dog can satisfy its curiosity and look outside while sitting on the windowsill, in order to avoid falls and injuries, it is best to make comfortable steps.

Important. Many Basenjis steal and hide small things. It’s better to take the “treasure” while the dog doesn’t see it. They easily cope with loss, but they perceive the taking of prey as humiliation.

walks

It is better to walk restless Basenjis on a leash, in quiet places. Preferably away from transport. The hunting instinct often carries the dog away in pursuit of a cat, car, or bird. A pet that gets carried away can run away and get lost. Although many instructors, on the contrary, advise immediately starting to socialize the puppy. Teach him not to react to vehicles, people, cats. Encourage interaction with other dogs and a calm attitude towards the close presence and touch of people.

Basenjis should only be walked with collars and in quiet places.

Commands “Near!” and “Come to me!” — the first thing that needs to be taught to the student.

Basenjis need physical activity in the form of outdoor games, training, long walks or runs, and trips to nature at least three times a week. Otherwise, disgrace at home is guaranteed. The duration of daily walking is at least one and a half to two hours.

Important. For your dog's safety, it is very important to teach him not to pick up things from the ground.

Features of caring for a Basenji dog

Dogs of this breed are washed extremely rarely, once every six months.

Caring for a Basenji is simple:

Every week you need to comb out dead epithelial cells with a hard glove.
Wash as rarely as possible (once every six months) and only with zoo shampoos for sensitive skin. Frequent bathing leads to dry skin, dermatosis and flaking. Many Basenjis are terrified of water. There is no need to insist, the dogs are clean and take care of themselves.
For walks in rainy and cold weather, you should get a jumpsuit.
The eyes are cleaned with a cotton pad, the ear holes are regularly cleaned with a cotton swab, and the claws are filed as needed.
To protect your dog from fleas and ticks, you should purchase a special collar or special products.
The breed is thermophilic. To prevent the dog from getting under the blanket with its owners, it is worth getting soft house or a warm bed.

Feeding and diet

The basic diet of an adult dog includes:

lean raw meat, offal, boiled fish;
twice a week - bones;
buckwheat, rice porridge in water without salt;
vegetables, fruits, herbs;
premium dry food.

Cottage cheese and dairy products must be added to the puppies' menu.

Important. Active Basenjis are prone to overeating and gain weight quickly. Portions should be balanced. Feeding from the “master's table” is unacceptable. Especially fatty, smoked, spicy and sweet foods.

Health, diseases of the breed and life expectancy

The Basenji can live up to 16 years in a home environment.

The genetic potential unspoiled by humans endowed the Basenji with excellent health. But they also have a predisposition to certain diseases:

ocular (cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy);
diseases gastrointestinal tract(enteropia with loss of albumin and globulin proteins);
diseases of the genitourinary system (urolithiasis);
renal (Fancone syndrome);
dysfunction thyroid gland(hypothyroidism);
musculoskeletal system (dysplasia of the elbow and hip joints).

At proper care and regular visits to the veterinarian, Basenjis live at home from 12 to 16 years.

Important. Sometimes in maturing dogs on the stomach or inside thighs, pigmented spots appear on the skin. This is not an allergy or a skin disease, it is a feature of this breed. The same as rare estrus in bitches (once a year) and unwinding of tail rings in a stressful situation.

How to choose the right Basenji puppy

There are usually three to five puppies in a litter. It is better to buy a puppy from a specialized nursery at the age of one and a half months.

Photo. Basenji puppy in arms

When choosing, check:

bite;
cleanliness of ears, eyes, nose;
the color of the mouth (should be pink) and nose (black), eyes (dark and shiny);
activity;
fatness;
documents confirming the genetic purity of the parents.

Where to buy and how much it costs

Basenji is not the best expensive breed. The average price on the website Puppies-Moscow.rf is 40-50 thousand rubles. The website hochusobaku.ru provides complete information about nurseries in Moscow and St. Petersburg that raise Basenjis: African Amulet, Aristocrat Dog, Tim Spirit, Princely Court and many others.

Preparing for the arrival of a puppy in the house

You need to prepare for the arrival of a puppy in the house. Decide who will walk and care for the dog, distribute responsibilities. Secure the house: remove wires, clothes, shoes, small items. Determine a place for sleeping, playing, feeding.

Before a Basenji puppy appears in your home, you need to prepare and buy everything you need.

Buy:

ceramic or metal bowls for food and water;
bedding or house, basket;
toys from natural fur, lived;
balls;
harness;
collar.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Basenji breed

The main disadvantage of this breed is their restlessness.

Among the advantages of the breed: cleanliness, trainability, cheerfulness, loyalty to owners, curiosity.

Basenjis are easy to find mutual language with children, take part in games with pleasure, love affection. If they are too bothersome, they leave, they may click their teeth, but they will never bite.

Very friendly, but can stand up for themselves, the owner and his family members. They get along with other dogs and try to avoid conflicts, quarrels and fights.

In a community with other animals, they strive to be in charge. If obeyed, they get along well with dogs, cats, parrots and hamsters.

Produce very little noise. They do not bark and have a silent gait. If desired, they can be taught to relieve themselves in the tray.

Disadvantages: restlessness, need for constant attention, long walks, physical activity, self-will and wilfulness, the ability to manipulate masters, cunning, a tendency to theft and escape.

The behavior of these dogs is often compared to that of a cat: just like graceful domestic predators, Basenjis are very clean, absolutely independent, do not favor water too much, and are happy to climb onto cabinets and window sills and inspect their territory from a height.

Despite the fact that the history of the breed goes back thousands of years, it was only in the nineties of the last century that Basenjis appeared in our country. Descriptions of the breed began to appear in special publications for dog handlers earlier. This prompted our enthusiastic breeders to start breeding these cute animals.

Its small size, peaceful and easy-going nature make it an excellent Basenji companion. A dog with peculiarities of behavior and character is of great interest to lovers of four-legged pets. With proper upbringing, she becomes a faithful and devoted friend, an excellent hunting assistant, and an intelligent and sensitive companion.

The name of the breed is translated from the African dialect of the inhabitants of the Congo as “creature from the bush,” which is somewhat strange for such a noble and aristocratic exterior that this animal has.

History of the breed

The history of the Basenji, which according to the current version is at least five thousand years old, still haunts modern researchers, as it still contains mysteries. Their homeland is considered to be Central Africa, the state of Congo, but at the same time, drawings and sculptural figurines of dogs very similar to Basenji, as well as mummies of these animals, are still discovered by archaeologists thousands of kilometers from the Congo - in the burial places of the priests and pharaohs of Ancient Egypt.

Scientists managed to find an explanation for this fact. As it turned out, the African non-barking Basenji dog was first brought to Egypt not as an assistant during the hunt, but as a guard dog for the highest nobility. At the same time, the historical homeland of this animal boasts an abundance of breed names indicating the geographical origin of the Basenji. These include the Congo Terrier, the Congolese Bush Dog, the Congolese Forest Dog and the Congolese Terrier. In addition to these names, Basenjis are often called Zande dogs (after the name of the people living in Sudan and Congo).

Despite such a variety of names, the true history of origin is unknown to anyone. The first European to become acquainted with the Basenji was the famous German explorer and traveler Georg Schweinfurt. During his next trip (1863-1866) through the territory of South Sudan and Congo, he noticed many figurines of dogs made of wood that hung over the huts of the poor. And a little later he saw living, silent dogs with bells on their necks.

The natives explained to the guest that the bells were necessary in order not to lose their valuable assistant in the thick and tall grass. Schweinfurt named the animals - Congolese terriers - and described their appearance in detail in his diaries. Almost thirty years later (1895), the first two dogs were brought to the shores of Foggy Albion by the Englishman James Garrow. The animals endured the long sea voyage with difficulty and very soon died from the plague.

It must be admitted that further attempts to adapt to climatic conditions Britain's Basenji were unsuccessful. The cold and damp climate of Britain did not suit the dogs at all. In addition, African dogs had no immunity to a number of canine diseases common in the country. It was only in 1905, when Basenjis were introduced into nurseries in France and Germany as exotic animals, that they felt truly comfortable.

In the thirties of the last century, English breeders-enthusiasts still managed to overcome the difficulties of Basenji adaptation, unravel their strange intolerance to vaccinations and begin breeding these dogs in the UK.

The Basenji is a dog breed that was officially included in the British Stud Book in 1937, thanks to the great efforts of breeder Olivia Barne. In the same year, silent dogs were presented by her at the Kraft exhibition. The first appearance of the animals in public caused a stir - many wanted to see for themselves that the “dog from the bush” could not bark.

The resounding success at the exhibition ensured a surge in popularity. The Americans were also interested in the Basenji. Also in 1937, the dogs were brought to the USA. Just five years later (1942) they were registered with the AKC.

First breed club

It appeared in Great Britain in 1939. But the spread and development of the breed in this country was prevented by the outbreak of war with Nazi Germany. By 1947, the Basenji not only regained their lost positions, but also earned new championship titles. In 1964, the dog was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and took its rightful place in the group of “primitive dogs and Spitz dogs.” In the same year, the Basenji standard was developed.

Breed varieties

The breed has two varieties: plain dog and forest dog. The first is larger: its height at the withers is about forty centimeters, its legs are high and, as a rule, these animals are distinguished by their light brown and white color. The Forest Basenji is shorter than its relative. The color and eye color are darker.

Usage

IN Central Africa Basenji is a breed of dog that is widely used by local tribes for hunting. This is an active, intelligent and very fast assistant, suitable for chasing wounded animals, for driving game into set nets, for hunting cane rats, which inhabit the wetlands of the Congo River in large numbers.

Surprisingly, in Europe and the United States these dogs are never used for hunting. The fact is that breeders do not strive to breed real hunting Basenjis. The characteristics of the breed in these countries are limited: companion, participant in sports competitions. Indeed, if hunters from American and European Basenji litters are, to put it mildly, useless, then in agility or coursing competitions they have no equal: the dogs are very smart and develop enormous speed.

External features

The Congolese Basenji is a breed of dog, surprisingly harmoniously created by nature itself. The animal has an elegant and aristocratic exterior. It is graceful and independent, despite its rather modest size. The height at the withers is no more than forty-three centimeters, and the weight is no more than eleven kilograms.

Head

Has a refined wedge-shaped beautiful shape, with a slightly flat, medium-sized skull. Cheekbones are flat. One of the breed's characteristics is the wrinkles that appear on the sides of the dog's head in moments of excitement. The muzzle is well defined. The transition from forehead to muzzle is not very distinct. The bridge of the nose is straight, although the standard allows for a subtle upward bend, and the nose is black. The lips fit tightly to the jaws, are thin, and do not have pronounced jowls.

The jaws in the bite are quite powerful. There are forty-two white teeth on them. The eyes are dark brown, set obliquely, not too large, but distinguished by a beautiful almond shape and an expressive look: smart, studying and a little cunning. The ears are set high, resemble the shape of a tree leaf, erect, slightly tilted forward. The neck is quite long and strong, but at the same time devoid of massiveness. It has a graceful curve and a pronounced scruff. Skin without dewlap.

Torso

It is muscular, strong and at the same time light and slightly elongated. The line of the back is raised to the withers, straight. The chest is expressed as a cone. The abdomen is tucked up. The tail is set high, the buttocks protrude beyond the line of the tail, thereby creating the impression of overdeveloped hips. The tail is curled into a single, or more often a one-and-a-half, ring and lies on the dog’s back in the form of a fluffy nest.

Limbs

They are smooth and parallel, quite muscular. The paws are compact, one might say small. They have oval shape, arched, with dense and elastic pads. The claws are strong, not too large, usually light, often white.

Coat and color

The coat is short and shiny. The hair is thin and delicate. A huge advantage is the absence unpleasant odor from her. In addition, the Basenji practically does not shed. Colors may vary. Today animals have been bred with the following colors:

copper-white;
black and white;
black;
red and white;
light fawn;
black and tan;
brindle.

This breed is characterized by a distinction white color. Regardless of the color variant, the “fronts” on the chest, spots or stripes on the face, “socks” on the paws, the underbelly should always be white, the tail also has a white tip.

Basenji: dog character

What is her character like? Despite the fact that Basenjis appeared in our country relatively recently, descriptions of the breed today can be found even in publications for novice dog breeders. Dog handlers believe that these dogs should be raised by people with a strong character. Animals are willful and will strive to take a dominant position at the first opportunity. It is necessary to communicate with them strictly, but do not allow physical punishment for disobedience.

It is no coincidence that experts do not recommend that beginners in dog breeding get a Besenji breed. The dog's character is contradictory: despite being independent in many situations, this dog is attached to the family, home, and owner. He is very affectionate with all household members, and is especially kind to children. These qualities captivate owners and force them to make concessions to their pet. This cannot be done, at least with a puppy, until the baby understands “what is good and what is bad.” Otherwise, you will end up with an uncontrollable animal that even an experienced dog handler will not be able to handle later.

Basenjis (owner reviews confirm this) absolutely cannot stand loneliness. If you leave your pet alone in the house, you should be prepared to find complete destruction upon your return. Thus, your pet protests against confinement within four walls. Therefore, if you spend a lot of time outside the house, give up your dream of having a small Basenji.

The Bush Dog does not bark, but this does not mean that it does not make any sounds at all. The dog can snort and whine, howl and growl, and quite menacingly and loudly. Every owner will tell you that the Basenji is a small dog with a fearless heart and a peaceful disposition, a true true friend. He is very wary of strangers: he will not allow himself to be petted, but at the same time he will never show aggression. Usually in these situations the dog will prefer to retire to a place where it will not be disturbed. Despite his loyalty, the Basenji will perceive any physical impact as a threat and will certainly respond to it.

U African dog The coat is short, so it is enough to brush it once every two weeks. Several times a year, brushing is replaced by bathing. You should not wash your pet too often, as these dogs have very delicate skin. Better water treatments carry out as necessary, after about three to four months, using a special veterinary shampoo for delicate skin, which is ideal for Basenjis. Caring for your pet should include regular eye and ear examinations. Tear fluid, which washes away dust and dirt, helps animals' eyes stay clean. Tear ducts should be wiped daily with a damp cotton swab.

These dogs have open ears that trap a lot of dirt and dust, so they need to be cleaned once a week with damp cotton wool. You can purchase drops at your veterinary pharmacy that are designed for deep cleaning of the ears.

The Basenji is a dog breed that requires regular nail trimming when kept indoors. When they naturally do not wear off, become very long, dogs experience discomfort. For cutting, you should purchase special nail clippers, which come in different sizes. The Basenji requires a medium size.

Feeding

What to feed the Basenji? This question interests everyone who is planning to purchase a pet of this breed. It should be admitted that these dogs are quite picky when it comes to food. The basis of their diet should be raw lean meat. Bones (except chicken) can be given no more than once a week. Cottage cheese and dairy products must be included in the puppy's diet. In addition to meat, your dog can be given offal and some boneless ocean fish, unsalted rice and buckwheat porridge.

You can gradually switch your pet to high-quality professional food, such as Royal Canin, Hills, etc. It is better to select ready-made food after consultation with veterinarian which will tell you best composition according to your pet's age and health status.

Nurseries

There is no point in reminding experienced dog breeders, but we will warn beginners that it is undesirable to purchase dogs in markets, through advertisements in newspapers, from random people at stops. Usually in such cases the price for a puppy is much lower than it could be worth. If you are offered to buy a Basenji puppy for three thousand, you shouldn’t even continue the conversation about buying. A purebred Basenji baby costs from 30 thousand rubles.

You should find your nearest nursery. Basenjis today are not yet very common in our country, however, breeders in Russia and neighboring countries are already working successfully and have proven themselves to be excellent. We will recommend you several similar institutions:

Basenji nursery INTISARA"Z (Minsk).
"Dog Aristocrat" (Moscow).
Royal Pets (Moscow).
"Princely Court" (St. Petersburg).
NELA HUNDO (Gomel).