fun Facts

Originally from Africa, Basenjis are one of the oldest American Kennel Club (AKC) breeds.  Cave paintings found in Libya and dated to 6,000 BC depict hunters with dogs that have curled tails- a distinctive feature of the Basenji.  Ancient Egyptian artifacts feature Basenjis which were already a well established breed.   Often, Basenjis were brought from the source of the Nile and presented as gifts to the Pharaohs of Egypt.

The Basenji is a dog with fastidious, dainty habits, such as cleaning himself all over like a cat.  The Basenji also lacks the doggy odor, sheds very little, and does not drool.

Basenjis are known for being independent and aloof at times.  They are alert and careful with strangers, open and calm with friends, and loving and solicitous with children.

In Africa, Basenjis were prized for their versatile hunting skills, superb vision and hearing, and the tendency to silently leap vertically into the air in order to spot game in the dense grasslands of their home country.  Fun Fact, one African name for the breed loosely translates to mean "the jumping up and down dog."  Basenjis use a double suspension gallop when they run.  Like a galloping horse, all four paws are off the ground which helps these dogs reach impressive speed.

The Basenji's larynx is shaped differently than those in most dogs so it cannot produce a bark.  They can make sounds that include a distinctive "barroooooo" and yodel, although most do not vocalize often.  African Tribes that use basenjis for hunting will tie bells around them.

The four most common colors are Red, Black, Tricolor, and Brindle.  The white coloration for each of the standard colors should always appear on all four feet, chest, and tip of the tail.