Basenji
Also called African Barkless Dog, African Bush Dog, Ango Angari and Congo Dog
The Basenji is a small and agile breed of dog that was originally bred in Africa for hunting small game. They are intelligent, independent, and alert, and make excellent companion dogs.
- Weight
- 20–24 lb (9–11 kg)
- Height at the shoulder
- 15–17 in (38–43 cm)
- Life span
- 14–16 years
- Exercise
- About 45 minutes a day
- Coat
- Short, Smooth
- Origin
- Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Traits
Family and friends
- Children: OK with children
- Other dogs: OK with other dogs
- Strangers: Reserved with strangers
Home and activity
- Energy: Energetic
- Apartment living: Can manage in an apartment
- Barking: Rarely barks
- Training: Fairly easy to train
Care
- Grooming: Very little grooming
- Shedding: Sheds a little
- Drooling: Hardly drools
Temperament
Affectionate with family
Alert
Curious
Energetic
Independent
Reserved with strangers
Coat colours
Black and white, brindle and white, chestnut red and white and tricolor (black, chestnut red and white)
Males and females
| Measure | Males | Females |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 22–24 lb (10–11 kg) | 20–22 lb (9–10 kg) |
| Height | 16–17 in (41–43 cm) | 15–16 in (38–41 cm) |
Recognized by
American Kennel Club (AKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)
Caring for a Basenji
Find pet services near you that suit this breed.
Breeds of a similar size
All small breeds
Sources
- Breed Standard | Basenji Club of America (AKC parent club) (opens in a new tab)
- BASENJI Official UKC Breed Standard (opens in a new tab)
- All about Basenji breed (opens in a new tab)
- Basenji Dog Breed Information - AKC (opens in a new tab)
Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).