The origins of the basenji are in Central Africa, specifically in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo (although they spread rapidly throughout the area), and it is believed that it reached England around 1895 and from there it spread to rest of Europe and later to the United States. In 1964 it was officially recognized as a breed by the International Cynological Federation.
His past is, above all, that of a working and hunting dog , so he can be a bit stubborn and difficult to educate. It is also not the best dog to live with children (although there does not have to be any problem) due to its independent nature and its little inclination to play and affection. However, this does not mean that he is not an active and affectionate dog with his own, he is simply not an excessively affectionate dog, and children can have a hard time understanding this trait of the basenji.
Although they do not need intense and very frequent physical exercise, they do require psychological stimulation (games, walks, etc.) in order not to develop stress or problematic behaviors that can lead to aggressiveness, destructive behavior … It will be an ideal dog if you get used to giving it long walks and you are an independent person for whom a more dependent dog is not the best option. The basenji will be a good companion but without great demands for pampering.
It may not be the ideal dog for people who have not lived with a dog before, due to its peculiar character. Their education requires patience and some experience, although of course we can always turn to a dog trainer. The Basenji is an intelligent, independent and curious dog, who likes to spend time alone, but who quickly takes an affection for his own, and is in fact a quite sociable animal.
Basenji do not respond very well to strict education and training methods. It is best to use positive reinforcement techniques and reward their good actions and behaviors. Despite their stubbornness and independent personality , they tend to take a person of reference, whom they will adore and who they tend to pay a lot of attention to.
Another peculiarity of the basenji is that it is groomed in the manner of a cat, which reinforces that it is sometimes compared to one. In addition, his barking, according to some, would resemble Tyrolean song, as it is sounds and muffled howls.
In short, it is a peculiar dog and a good companion, but it is not especially suitable for everyone. Do you want to know more about this breed?
