Basenji
A poised, elegant hunting dog from Africa, the Basenji is smoothly muscular and moves with ease and agility. He is lightly built and possesses a wrinkled head and a high, curled tail. The Basenji is commonly known as the "barkless dog," but when excited, he makes a noise that sounds like a yodel. Colors include chestnut red, pure black or brindle -- all with white feet, chest and tail tip.
Prized for its hunting prowess in its native Central Africa, the first specimens of the Basenji were brought from the source of the Nile as presents to the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt. The breed wasn’t successfully introduced in England until 1937, and the first litter of Basenji puppies raised to maturity in America was in 1941. In Africa, the natives use him for pointing, retrieving and driving game into nets.
Breed Profile
The Basenji is known for his fastidious habits and being full of play and activity. Because he often worked out of sight of hunters, he can tend to be independent and aloof and prefers to meet strangers on his own terms. Grooming is minimal due to his short coat, which lacks the typical "doggy" odor.
Grooming
Basenji’s are a short flat coated breed that sheds throughout the year, even in the winter time. Grooming is suggested for 4 – 8-week intervals to clean ears, clip nails, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition.
Eyes
Eyes should be alert and bright. Use Opti-Soothe Eye Wash during the bath to flush any foreign matter.
Ears
Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to be sure no ear problems that might need vet attention arise. Only clean as far as you can see, never further.
Bathing
Basenji’s require 2 baths when you bathe them. The first bath should be a general bath. If your Basenji has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo and follow it with a medicated shampoo depending on your dog’s needs. If your Basenji has normal skin then the second bath you would want to pick one of our wonderful fragrant shampoos and conditioners. Follow the bath with a conditioner or Luxury Remoisturizer to keep the coat in great shape.
Paws
Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack.
Coat Care
Use Aloe Hydrating Spray between baths to control flaking and dandruff, especially in dry conditions.
Show Dog Tips
Silky Show Shampoo and Silky Show Conditioner will add silk proteins and shine to the coat as well as the Luxury Remoisturizer Conditioner. High Sheen Finishing Spray right before entering the show ring will add the little extra shine without any oily residue.
Common Problems
Basenji’s are very active dogs that enjoy the outdoors, so they are prone to minor scratches and wounds, Basenji’s are also known to climb trees. Keep 3 in 1 Healing Cream on hand for those incidences.
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