Lightly built, finely boned aristocratic-looking animal, high on leg
compared with its length, always poised, alert and intelligent.
Wrinkled head, with pricked ears, proudly carried on a well-arched
neck. Deep brisket runs up into a definite waist, tail tightly curled
presenting a picture of a well balanced dog of gazelle-like grace.
Characteristics
The Basenji is a hound, equipped with sharp eyesight and a
remarkable scenting ability, which hunts by using both sight and
scent. This breed should not bark, but it is not mute. It does growl
and yodel. Its wrinkled forehead, tightly curled tail and swift,
effortless gait (which resembles a racehorse trotting at full speed),
are breed typical. The breed is exceptionally clean. The females
cycle once a year, usually between August and November.
Temperament
The Basenji is alert, intelligent and independent; affectionate to its
"family". The breed is characteristically aloof with strangers and
protective of its territory. It is not well-suited for structured
obedience work.
History
The Basenji is a small, short-haired hunting dog, which originated
in the Zaire region of Africa. They are also often referred to as the
"Congo Dog". The breed stems from the very earliest pariah-type
dogs, being used as hunting dogs as long ago as 3600 B.C. The
breed has maintained its original form for centuries, and was
"rediscovered" in the Congo around 1936, when a few specimens of
the breed were imported to England.
Origin
Africa
Utilization
Hunting
Classification
Scenthounds and related breeds
Size
Medium
Height
Dogs 43 cms (17 ins) at withers. Bitches 40 cm (16 ins) at withers.
Main
menu: