Basenji

From Pet Encyclopedia

Basenji

Photo of 'Gooses Burnt Ember'

Origin of Breed

Breed Nick Names

Contents 1 Introduction 2 Origin and History 3 Appearance 4 Temperament 5 Health 6 External Links 7 References

[edit] Introduction

The Basenji is an African barkless hunting dog which comes under the Hound Dog Group along with breeds such as the Beagle, Basset Hound and Greyhound. Unlike many other hounds the Basenji works using sight and scent not just the one sense. The first records of Basenjis appear on the Egyptian engravings dating back to 2000 b.c.

[edit] Origin and History

[edit] Appearance

HEAD, The skull is flat,well-chiseled and of medium width. The wrinkle should be fine and profuse. EYES, The eyes should be small, almond shaped and obliquely set. Colour should be darkhazel or dark brown with dark or black rims. EARS, Ears should be small, pointed, erect, slightly hooded and set well forward on top of the head. NECK, The neck should be strong and curve from the back of the head to the shoulders. FOREQAURTERS, Shoulders should be well laid back, elbows tucked in against brisket. Forelegs should be straight with fine bone. Pasterns should be straight and flexible. HINDQAURTERS, Strong and muscular, with well let down hocks, with long second thighs and moderate bend of stifle. FEET, Feet should be oval in shape, small, neat and compact with thick pads and well arched toes. TAIL, The tail should be set very high and curl as tightly as possible and lie closely to either side of the hip.The curl can be either single or double. GAIT, The gait should be swift, long, tireless, swinging stride. COAT, The coat is short,sleek,close and very fine. Skin very pliant. COLOUR, Colours are red and white, black and white,black tan and white with tan melon pipsand mask (tri-colour), black tan and white without tan melon pips and mask, and brindle and white (black stripes on a red background). Four white feet, white chest and white tip on the tail. SIZE, Ideal height, Dogs - 17 ins, Bitches - 16 ins at withers. Ideal weight: dogs 11 kgs bitches 9 1/2 kgs.

[edit] Temperament

An intelligent, independent, but affectionate and alert breed. Can be aloof with strangers.

[edit] Health

A few health problems to be aware of are: Fanconi Sydrome (kidney disease), PPM (persistant pupillary membrane), PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), HA (hemolytic anemia), Thyroid problems.

[edit] External Links

Basenji Owners & Breeders Association
Basenji Club of Great Britain

[edit] References