Basenji Characteristics

The Basenji is very intelligent and independent. He can be selective with his hearing and understanding when he wants to. Most do not like to get wet, nor do they like you wet. They will dry you off after a bath!  They are very clean and you will often find them grooming themselves. They will use their paws to wash their face as a cat does.

They love to chase birds, rabbits and anything that moves. They are both sight and sound hounds. Remember they were breed for hunting! They love to chew, so I found keeping a lot of toys around for them to play with works wonders. They also enjoy shredding. Empty paper towel rolls works well for that.

Watching them play is very amusing! They like to slap and paw like a cat, and dance around. When they really get wound up, they run in circles around the house as fast as they go, bouncing off walls and furniture. The more you laugh at them the funnier they get! They also are great escape artists. Make sure you have a good fenced in yard, and then don't be surprised when they find a way out anyway!

They are very curious, which can sometimes lead them to get into trouble without them knowing why. Their hair is short which makes them unable to handle extreme heat or cold. Watch them during the winter and hot summer months! They love to sleep under the covers with you, and snuggle up as close as they can get. They are very affectionate and love human contact. You have to love them and all their silly and amusing antics. I wouldn't trade mine for the world!