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Basenji Dog |
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Admired by the pharaohs, these ancient dogs stem from the earliest pariahs. They were used as hunting dogs much like their larger relatives, the Pharaoh and Ibizan. As the great Egyptian culture declined, these hunting partners were adopted by tribes throughout the Congo. The Basenji breed's keen nose (a Basenji can scent at 80 yards) and sharp eyesight were useful to the natives, who used the dogs to drive game into nets or to track wounded prey. Because the Basenji hunted silently, he often wore a bell. Centuries later, the Basenji dog was found in the bush by British explorers, nearly in its original form. The Englishmen called the breed the African Bush Dog. The breed's independence, resourcefulness and hunting ability had helped the Basenji to survive on its own. Finally, in 1936, a pair imported from the Congo by a Mrs. Burn, Bongo of Blean and Bo-koto of Blean, produced the first English litter. When these pups were exhibited at Crufts in 1937, they created so much interest that special police had to be employed to keep the crowds moving past the Basenji benches. The Basenji dog was obviously on its way to acceptance. It was Mrs. Burn who gave the breed its current name, Basenji, translating to bush thing from the African dialect. The Basenji was recognized by AKC in 1943. A popular hunting dog for small game in his native land, he is valued for his silent approach. Today the barkless dog is valued for the same attribute in apartment complexes. Nevertheless, he is not totally silent, communicating with a growl when displeased and a singular yodel when happy. The Basenji dog is exceptionally clean, licking itself in the manner of a cat, adding to his appeal as a pet. Owners note the use of his feet to cling, play and communicate. Current owners find them happy playmates and avid coursing dogs. They
retain many of the characteristics of the pariahs: the aloofness, the
wrinkled brow and the cycling once a year. Basenji bitches come into season
between August and November (which would be late winter and early spring
in Africa) allowing their young to be several months old by cold weather |
