What are Basenjis Like?
The basenji is one of the oldest breeds of dog known to man. He is a small, short-haired hunting dog of African origin, often referred to as the barkless dog. Although he doesn’t bark, the basenji is not mute. In fact, he is capable of producing all the other typical dog noises, as well as some others which are unique to the breed. These include what fanciers refer to as a crow or yodel, sounds made by a happy basenji. Usually a very quiet dog, it should be noted that an unhappy basenji can be quite loud indeed! The basenji developed in his native land as an all-purpose hunting dog, and the breed still possesses the traits which made him so well suited to that role. He is quick, graceful and athletic. He is intelligent, alert and curious. Very little gets by this clever hunter. The adult basenji stands 16 to 17 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 22 and 24 pounds. He is notably fastidious, cleaning himself in an almost cat-like manner. His coat is very short and sleek and he shed
