Basenji

Basenji Breed Information 2022 

The central African Basenji dog is well-known for its small body that always seems to be full of energy. The breed sports a short coat, pointed ears and a little curled tail. These pups are very energetic and aware of what’s happening around them. They are very intelligent and curious and will love exploring your house. However, this means it’s very wise to puppy-proof the house before you bring them home. 

At Spot Pet Insurance, we believe that pets make us better people. That’s why we provide pet insurance plan options with the best in breed coverage. To learn about coverage options for your Basenji pup, request a free pet insurance quote today. 

Basenji: Introduction to the Breed 

Bringing a new animal into your home is a big decision. When that animal is known to live upward of 16 years, like the Basenji dog, that decision is even bigger. Before introducing the pup to your family, take the time to consider which traits you want and don’t want in a dog. Not physical traits, but the dog’s personality. When it comes to the Basenji breed, here are a few things you need to know… 

The Basenji breed is known for… 

The Basenji is a very loyal companion. They live best when they have one special owner in their life to listen to and look up to. Before adopting your Basenji, decide who in your family will take primary responsibility for the new dog. This person should be confident and strong as well as patient with the new dog during training.  

Basenji dogs are known for their unique bark or “yodel.” These communicative dogs are ready to let you know exactly what they need.  

They are also very intelligent. However, unlike most intelligent dog breeds, this does not make them easier to train. The Basenji is the second most difficult dog breed to train. This is because they are smart enough to know when their actions will be rewarded or not. 

The Basenji can be stubborn and doesn’t like water. They are cat-like in that they will refuse to go outside in any type of damp weather. No pool days for this pup.  

Speaking of rewards, this breed loves to be compensated for its work. In this way, they are very prey driven. This means that they are not recommended in homes with small rodents or even cats.  

What are the Origins of the Basenji? 

The earliest known information on the Basenji breed comes from Central Africa. They were known and respected by locals for their intelligence, courage, and curiosity.  

The first Europeans who met the breed fell in love. They made many attempts to bring the dogs to England starting in 1923. However, when the dogs arrived, they always fell ill and died during the quarantine process. Finally, in 1930, a group of dogs finally lived. They were accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1943.  

What are the Risks for the Basenji? 

These fur babies often struggle with dermatitis. This is when the dog's skin becomes irritated due to allergies, fleas and ticks, or improper grooming. The issue can be treated with medication, flea and tick prevention and dietary supplements. Many health problems that the Basenji struggles with can be either treated or prevented.  

Other health issues for the breed include, 

There are ways to prevent sickness in your Basenji before it happens. Taking the time to avoid issues now will save you a lot of time, effort and money in the future. Two things you can do to help your Basenji are working with a responsible and reputable breeder, and keeping up with ongoing care for your dog.

Working with a Basenji breeder who is responsible and reputable will ease your mind about any health issues your dog may have. Parent dogs are usually tested before the breeding process. Meet with the breeder beforehand and don’t shy away from asking questions about the parents and past litters. For more information on cost, check out our blog on basenji price.

When it comes to your Basenji pup, ongoing care will be essential in preventing illness. Dermatitis is prevalent in the breed and can be avoided with the right grooming and flea and tick prevention. Also, don’t forget about regular vet visits and a healthy diet.  

Sometimes, even if you’ve done everything you can to prevent illness in your Basenji, they can still get sick. It’s important to be prepared if that happens. At Spot Pet Insurance, the health of your pet is our top priority. That’s why we provide pet insurance plan options that help protect them if they get unexpectedly sick or hurt, and help give them the long, happy, and healthy life they deserve. To learn more about insurance coverage options for your Basenji, request a free quote today. 

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