Basenji — size comparison

The Basenji is a lightly built, short-haired dog with upright ears, forehead wrinkles and a tightly curled tail. Long legs, a tucked-up abdomen and smooth, springy movement shape its outline. White markings occur on areas including the feet and chest; the remaining coat may be red, black, tricolour or brindle. Alert eyes and mobile ears reveal its interest in its surroundings.

It descends from Central African hunting dogs. Local communities used them to find game and cooperate during hunts. Modern pedigree breeding later developed outside Africa too, retaining the distinctive type. Its vocal behaviour is unusual: instead of ordinary repeated barking, it may produce yodel-like sounds, grumbles or short calls.

Basenjis are generally inquisitive, independent and quick to make their own decisions. They investigate new places, and moving small animals readily capture their attention. They can be affectionate and playful with familiar people while treating strangers with reserve. They devote considerable attention to keeping themselves clean. They cooperate most readily when a task interests them and soon lose enthusiasm for mechanical repetition.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec, idealna wysokość i masa — FCI
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia