BASENJI INFO & QUESTIONNAIRE
Thank you for your interest in our Basenjis! Below is some basic information about Basenjis. Please please please do your research on the breed if you have never owned one before. Basenjis are not for everyone.
Basenji Information:
Origins:
Basenjis are believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds, with roots tracing back to ancient Egypt. They were highly valued as hunting dogs and companions by the African tribes, particularly in the Congo region.
Appearance:
Basenjis have a distinctive appearance. They are compact and muscular with a graceful build. They typically stand about 16 to 17 inches (41 to 43 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh around 22 to 24 pounds (10 to 11 kg). They have a short, fine coat that comes in various colors, including red, black, tricolor, and brindle. We also may have mahogany colored basenjis as well. One of their unique physical features is their tightly curled tail.
Temperament:
Basenjis have a reputation for being intelligent, independent, and sometimes stubborn. They are known for their curious and alert nature. Basenjis are often described as "cat-like" because they are fastidious groomers and tend to be reserved with strangers. They can also be quite vocal and make unique vocalizations often referred to as "yodels" or "baroos" instead of barking.
Energy Level:
Basenjis are energetic dogs and require regular exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. They enjoy activities like walks, runs, and playtime in a securely fenced yard. It's important to provide them with enough physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Basenjis are also known to climb. We have some adults that do, and some that do not. It is best to be prepared and think of your living situation as well as how you plan on training a Basenji in the event that your dog tries to start climbing things.
Training and Socialization:
Basenjis are intelligent but can have an independent streak, which can make training a bit challenging. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and consistent, patient training methods. Early socialization is essential to help them become well-rounded and confident dogs. Basenjis tend to chew and love wood. Having ample chew toys is a must. They can/do grow out of this with positive reinforcement and training. Basenjis can also tend to “snip” while playing. They are not known biters, but again, this is something that must be worked with while training and with the use of positive reinforcement. They will get used to who or what they are around. If they are introduced to dogs and cats from the early stages of their lives, they will be fine with other dogs and cats being introduced to them later. Lots of socialization for the first year is crucial.
Health:
Basenjis are generally a healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain health conditions. These can include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Fanconi syndrome (a kidney disorder) and umbilical hernias. All parents have been health tested for PRA and Fanconi. There is no genetic testing for umbilical hernias and they are EXTREMELY common in basenjis. I do not require a spay/neuter agreement; however, I do not sell with breeding rights; therefore, it is in my opinion that when they are at an acceptable age (your vet will tell you when they believe it is the best time for your dog - this is usually when they have fully matured but some will do it earlier. I fully support all vets’ opinions as they are the ones with the many years of schooling and experience for such a determination), I suggest you get them spayed or neutered. If your dog has an umbilical hernia, your vet can stitch it during the spay/neuter process if needed. Umbilical hernias become more obvious around 4-5 weeks of age. If I can see that your puppy might have one, I will inform you immediately. If this is not something you are comfortable with, I would suggest not picking out a puppy or putting a deposit down until I have a pup around that age and I can let you know their situation because I cannot guarantee I will have one available after waiting that long, nor can I guarantee my pups will be born without one. Basenjis normally have around 6 puppies a litter and we usually have 2-3 in a litter with one. Umbilical hernias look like outie belly buttons and I have never had one that has been severe or life threatening in any way.
Living Environment:
Basenjis can adapt to various living situations but generally do well in homes with secure fencing. Due to their hunting instincts and tendency to explore, it's crucial to keep them in a secure environment to prevent them from wandering off. I do not fault people that live in apartments or condos, etc., as long as they have plans on providing the dog with the exercise and the active lifestyle it needs.
Pricing & Other Info:
A deposit is required to reserve the puppy until it is ready to leave. Contact me for pricing. I use either PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or cash. Pups will receive a health exam from the vet before leaving. This includes their first round of shots. They will be on a worming schedule with me starting at the age of 2 weeks. All pups will be microchipped unless requested not to, but it will be YOUR responsibility to register the chip in your name with your pup’s new name as well as give your vet the microchip number. We live on 30 acres and share the property with my mother and my sister with her family. I have 3 children, and my sister does as well. The puppies will be socialized with adults and children. They will begin doggy door training at our home, but I make NO GUARANTEES of being fully potty trained at 8 weeks when they are ready to leave. How you choose to train your dog is up to you! We all come from different walks of life and lifestyles. I personally do not like to crate train dogs, but that may be what is best for you and that’s fine! Most people do not have access to doggy doors, but we do, and we like starting them off this way so that they get used to following their mom out of it and going to the potty outside. It will be your responsibility to get the puppy their remaining shots once they leave. Puppies will receive their first shot at 8 weeks and most vets require 2-3 more rounds every 2-3 weeks after that to be fully vaccinated - including their rabies shot at 12 weeks. All puppies will be AKC limited registration. This means that you will not be allowed to breed them in the future. If you are interested in potential breeding rights, the price is very different and I have different questions and requirements of potential breeders, so just make a note below if you are interested in breeding rights and we can talk further. Thank you.