The Complete Guide to Owning a Basenji Egyptian Dog

Owning a Basenji Egyptian dog can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to understand the unique characteristics of this breed.

The Basenji Egyptian dog is a rare and ancient breed, with a history dating back over 4,000 years to the time of the pharaohs.

They are highly intelligent and active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Basenji Egyptian dogs are known for their short coats, which require minimal grooming and are easy to maintain.

This breed is generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems, which require regular veterinary check-ups.

With proper care and attention, a Basenji Egyptian dog can live up to 12-14 years, making them a long-term companion.

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The Basenji's lineage is a fascinating topic that takes us back thousands of years. The Basenji has been identified as a basal breed, predating the emergence of modern breeds in the 19th century.

The Basenji's DNA reveals a connection to the dingo, another basal member of the domestic dog clade. DNA studies have shown that the Basenji falls within the Asian spitz group.

The Basenji's history is deeply rooted in Africa, where it originated on the continent. Europeans first described the breed in 1895 in the Congo.

The Basenji's unique characteristics, such as its intelligence, courage, speed, and silence, made it a prized possession of local tribesmen and hunters. These traits are still evident in the breed today.

The Basenji's genomic study revealed that it possesses only two copies of the AMY2B gene, which is a key indicator of its ancient origins. This gene helps to digest starch and is found in wolves, huskies, and dingos.

The Basenji has been an all-purpose hunting dog across Africa for thousands of years, serving as both a sighthound and a scenthound. Its ability to point and retrieve makes it a versatile companion.

Here's a brief timeline of the Basenji's introduction to the Western world:

Basenjis are small dogs, weighing about 9–11 kg (20–24 lb).

Their ears are erect, and their tails are tightly curled.

Basenjis have a wrinkled forehead, especially when they're young or excited.

Their eyes are typically almond-shaped.

Basenjis stand 41–46 cm (16–18 in) tall at the shoulder.

They're a square breed, meaning they're as long as they are tall.

Males are usually larger than females.

Basenjis have a confident gait, similar to a trotting horse.

Their tail is curled when they're not running, but they straighten it out for balance when they reach top speed.

Basenjis come in several colorations: red, black, tricolor, brindle, and trindle, which is a rare combination of tricolor with brindle points.

They all have white feet, chests, and tail tips.

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Basenjis are alert and energetic, but also reserved with strangers.

They tend to become emotionally attached to a single human, which can make them a bit possessive.

Basenjis are highly curious and love to climb, often scaling chain wire/link fences with ease.

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They dislike wet weather and will often refuse to go outside in damp conditions, much like cats.

Basenjis are known to stand on their hind legs, often leaning on something, when they're curious about something.

Their strong prey drive means they won't hesitate to chase cats and other small animals.

Basenjis are highly intelligent, but also independent, which can make them difficult to train.

If not exercised enough, they can become bored and destructive, so be prepared to keep them active.

They're quiet indoors, but not exactly cuddly, and some people consider them great watchdogs.

Individual Basenjis can differ in behavior and temperament, so it's essential to get to know your dog's unique personality.

The Basenji is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most common health problems in Basenjis is Fanconi Syndrome, a type of kidney disease that can be fatal if left untreated.

For another approach, see: Basenji Health Problems

Basenjis are also susceptible to hypothyroidism, which affects about 4% of the breed. This means their thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to a range of symptoms including weight gain, hair loss, and skin problems.

Dermatitis, or skin inflammation, is another issue that affects around 9% of Basenjis. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, fleas, and skin infections.

Incontinence and bladder infections are also relatively common in Basenjis, affecting around 5% of the breed.

Pyometra, a serious infection of the uterus, can also occur in older Basenjis, particularly females.

To keep your Basenji healthy, it's essential to monitor their urine for glucose every month from age three onwards, using inexpensive and readily available urine glucose strips.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Basenjis:

Basenjis are naturally clean dogs, but they still need some attention to stay healthy and happy. They require minimal upkeep, but regular checks and maintenance are essential.

Their short, sleek coats are easy to care for, and a weekly brush session removes dead hairs. Monthly baths keep them clean and fresh. A weekly wipe-down with gloves is also sufficient to remove loose hair.

Their nails, ears, eyes, and teeth need regular checks, just like any other dog. This includes monitoring their urine for glucose, especially after age three, to catch early signs of kidney disease.

Basenjis are active dogs that need about an hour of daily exercise. They love running, chasing, and exploring. However, they often ignore calls to return, so they can't be let off-leash unless in a fenced area.

Here are some key care and upkeep facts to remember:

Overall, Basenjis are relatively low-maintenance pets, but they still require attention to stay healthy and happy. With regular care and exercise, they can thrive and bring joy to their owners.