Weight: Male: 24; Female: 22 lbs
Height: Male: 17; Female 16 inches
Color(s): red, black, black and tan, or brindle, all with white feet, chest and tail tips; white legs, blaze, and collar optional
This dog breed was developed in Central Africa as the Basenji and it was originally developed as a hunting dog. Most Kennel clubs in the English speaking world categorize this breed in the hound category. This breed is a sight hound and uses only sight to hunt. These dogs will chase after any prey because of their strong hunting instinct, the Basenji is also known to chase after cars. This breed is well known for its bark because it does not have one. The Basenji lacks a bark although it does have a very distinct yodel known as the "barroo" and can wail when they excited or hunting.
Basenji Health and Diseases:
This breed suffer from progressive retinal atrophy a disease in dogs that blindness, and another disease known as Fanconi's syndrome, which can cause kidney failure. Besides Fanconi Syndrome and PRA, Basenjis also suffer from Hypothyroidism, immunoproliferative systemic intestinal disease, and Hemolytic Anemia. Basenjis are also quite sensitive to environmental and household chemicals which can cause liver diseases in this breed.
The Basenji has an average life span of 13.6 years.
