Should I Get A Basenji?

Can you provide a lot of exercise and mental stimulation for a Basenji?

Can you provide a lot of socialization that Basenji requires?

Do you have any other dog or small animal?

Can you provide a secure fence so a Basenji can't get out?

Do you mind having a headstrong pet that is difficult to train?

Do you mind having a pet that is predisposed to potentially serious health issues?

Basenjis need to have regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are quick to become bored - which they usually express with destructive chewing and digging in the yard. Try to get your Basenji involved in agility classes (an obstacle course for dogs) or lure coursing.

Basenjis need extensive exposure to strangers, else their natural caution can cross the line to suspiciousness. Basenjis like to approach people on their terms so owners should not let strangers handle their Basenji on their own. Basenjis don't like to be grabbed at, or held tightly, so owners should not let young children near an unsocialized dog.

Many Basenjis are dominant and pushy toward other dogs of the same sex. Many have strong hunting instincts, so they will chase and seize smaller creatures like cats, pet rabbits, and rodents, or even chickens.

Basenjis love to explore, and this means that they will try and escape their enclosure with every chance they get. Basenji owners should think about getting a high fence with a wire sink into the ground to thwart digging. Basenjis can also climb, so some owners have to use a wire pen with a covered top.

Basenjis are headstrong dogs which makes them difficult to raise and train. Owners must show them, through absolute consistency, that they mean what they say.

Basenjis are vulnerable to health problems such as eye diseases and a deadly kidney disease, mostly confined to Basenjis, called Fanconi.

If you want a conveniently sized, graceful, and very clean dog that has a soft easy-care coat in striking colors and makes a keen watchdog a Basenji may be the right choice for you.