Do Basenjis Shed and What to Expect

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Posted Nov 4, 2024

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Adorable Basenji resting on soft blanket on bed
Credit: pexels.com, Adorable Basenji resting on soft blanket on bed

Basenjis are known for their short coats, which is a good thing for people who don't like to deal with a lot of dog hair.

Basenjis shed minimally, with most owners reporting that they shed very little to none throughout the year.

Their short coats are also easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hair.

Basenjis are a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer a low-maintenance coat.

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Shedding

Basenjis typically shed twice a year, which is a normal cycle for them. This shedding is usually not as noticeable as with other dog breeds.

Their short fur makes shedding less apparent, with owners often only noticing a bit of hair on their favorite blankie or furniture.

The amount of shedding can vary depending on the environment they live in, with Basenjis developing a heavier undercoat in colder climates.

If your Basenji spends a lot of time outdoors, their undercoat will be longer, leading to more shedding.

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Credit: youtube.com, Basenji grooming - how much do they shed? (spoiler: hardly at all)

You can minimize shedding by shampooing your Basenji with an organic soap, then blow-drying them to remove loose hairs.

This trick is used by professional dog groomers and can result in a really clean coat that won't shed as much.

Basenjis are considered hypoallergenic, but this can be relative to the individual, with some people experiencing allergies and others not.

If you're considering getting a Basenji and have allergies, try visiting a friend, breeder, or shelter to see if your allergies flare up.

Basenji Characteristics

Basenjis are known for their unique characteristics that set them apart from other breeds. They are often described as having a "cat-like" personality.

Basenjis are naturally clean dogs and are known to be meticulous about their grooming. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.

One of the most distinctive features of the Basenji breed is their lack of bark. Instead, they make a unique yodeling sound to communicate.

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Credit: youtube.com, BASENJI - ALL TRUTH ABOUT BASENJI DOG BREED - WHY YOU CAN NOT START DASENJI

Basenjis are highly intelligent dogs and are known to be independent thinkers. They can be strong-willed at times, but with proper training, they can learn to listen to commands.

Their athletic ability is also noteworthy, with Basenjis being built for endurance and speed. They excel in dog sports such as agility and running.

Seasonal and General

Basenjis periodically blow their coat, usually in the spring, and this can be a bit noticeable.

Some Basenjis have a heavier undercoat that sheds just as much as any other dog and requires regular brushing until the coat is blown. This isn't my experience, though.

My Basenji sheds more for a few weeks in early spring, and the extra hair is noticeable, especially if she's been laying in one place for hours.

Basenjis have very short fur, so you'll hardly notice it when they shed. You might see a bit of hair on their favorite blanket or on your furniture, but it's negligible compared to other breeds.

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Cute Dog Getting Hairstyle in Grooming Salon
Credit: pexels.com, Cute Dog Getting Hairstyle in Grooming Salon

A few Basenji owners have noted that their dogs shed a lot, leaving fur on everything they brush against. However, this is the exception rather than the rule.

Basenjis that live in cold climates can develop a heavier undercoat than those that live in warmer environments. This is because they need more protection from the cold.

Basenji Dogs

Basenji dogs are an ancient breed that originated in Africa. They are known for their unique yodeling howl.

Basenjis are a low-shedding breed, but they do shed some. According to research, Basenjis shed less than many other breeds, but regular grooming is still necessary.

Their short coats require minimal maintenance, but they do need regular brushing to remove loose hair. This helps prevent matting and tangling.

Basenjis are a relatively small breed, weighing between 20 and 40 pounds. Their compact size makes them a great fit for city living or small homes.

Despite their low-shedding coat, Basenjis still require regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care to stay healthy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Basenjis high maintenance?

No, Basenjis are a low-maintenance breed that requires minimal grooming and care. Their fastidious grooming habits make them a great choice for busy owners who want a low-fuss pet.

Sources

  1. Shedding (basenjiforums.com)
  2. www.tanzabasenjis.net (tanzabasenjis.net)
  3. Do Basenjis Shed? [With Pictures] (mographable.com)
  4. Do Basenjis Shed? [How Much?] (oodlelife.com)
  5. The Basenji Dog Breed FAQ (thisis.dog)

Lorraine Stehr

Writer

Lorraine Stehr is a seasoned writer with a passion for storytelling. She has honed her craft through years of writing engaging articles that transport readers to new and exciting worlds. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for weaving words into compelling narratives, Lorraine has established herself as a respected voice in the industry.