Basenji

At birth, basenjis are more deeply wrinkled than adults of this breed.

Best known for virtually lacking a bark (some occasionally mimic other dogs but never howl or bark idly), these dogs are one of the most primitive of breeds, dating back to ancient Egypt. The name is Swahili for “a small creature in the bush,” and the local name in their birthplace is m’bwa m’kubwa m’bwa wanwitu (“the dog that leaps”). Known as “dogs of the forest,” basenjis were first brought back to Europe in the late 1800s, but not until decades later did any survive distemper, for which they had no natural immunity, or attempts at experimental vaccination.

In their homeland, equipped with wooden bells so they could be tracked, they hunted as retrievers and pointers; they have acute smell and sight. And, although they rarely bark, they communicate eloquently through facial expressions, body language, and noises.

Basenjis puppies are very playful and adult dogs relish frequent exercise, but they are not especially friendly and are not ideal household pets; on walks, they tend to follow their owners at a distance. “This is a breed with both the qualities of a cat and those of a dog,” one owner points out.

These dogs groom themselves meticulously. One owner says, “He stays away from other dogs’ droppings, or steps over them reluctantly. If he accidentally steps in it he shakes his paw and tries to scrape it off, and he remains disturbed for a long time.” Basenjis are also averse to getting wet.

Origin : Congo
Size : (male) Height about 17 inches ; weight about 24 pounds
(female) Height about 16 inches ; weight about 22 pounds
Coat : Short and smooth. Colors include reddish brown and blackish brown; white markings on throat, chest, leg, and tail are permitted.