Basenji

The Basenji is a small hunting dog from Central Africa, especially associated with the Congo Basin, where dogs of this type helped flush and drive game. It is often called the barkless dog because it rarely gives a typical repeated bark, but it is not silent; many Basenjis yodel, chortle, or crow when excited. The breed has a short coat, curled tail, erect ears, wrinkled forehead, and a light, athletic body built for speed and agility.

Keeping a Basenji suits people who understand independent, alert dogs with strong prey drive. Secure fencing and leash use are important, since many will chase wildlife and test gates or screens. Their short coat is easy to keep clean, but they may need warmth in cold, wet weather. Many females come into season once a year, which affects breeding plans. Health conversations should include DNA testing for Fanconi syndrome and progressive retinal atrophy, along with eye and thyroid history in the family.

Colors: Apricot, Bicolor, Black, Black and Tan, Black and White, Black Mask, Black Tan and White, Blue, Blue and Tan, Blue Merle, Blue Roan, Blue Tick, Brindle, Brindle and White, Brown, Brown and Tan, Brown and White, Chocolate, Cream, Dapple, Domino, Fawn, Fawn and White, Gold, Gray, Harlequin, Irish Marked, Liver, Liver Mask, Mantle, Mask, Merle, Mottled, Parti-Color, Piebald, Red, Red and White, Red Merle, Red Roan, Red Tick, Reverse Brindle, Roan, Sable, Saddle, Silver, Speckled, Spotted, Tan, Ticked, Tricolor, Tuxedo, White, Yellow