Basenji

The Basenji is an ancient African sighthound-type hunting dog — Africa's 'barkless dog' — a small, elegant, short-coated breed standing about 16-17 inches and weighing 22-24 pounds. The buying decision is unusual for a dog: a Basenji behaves more like a cat than a typical canine, and the marketing line 'doesn't bark' hides what it actually is — a primitive, independent, high-prey-drive hound that is famously difficult to train and impossible to trust off-leash. Physically the Basenji is fastidious and clean: a short, fine, glossy coat that the dog grooms itself like a cat, a tightly curled tail, a wrinkled forehead, almond eyes, and a smooth, racehorse-like trot. The coat is almost no work — a weekly wipe-down — and the breed is nearly odorless, one of its genuine advantages. Temperament is where buyers must be honest with themselves. Basenjis are intelligent but independent and self-directed; they do not bark, but they are not silent — they yodel and 'baroo.' They are intensely curious, mischievous, escape-artist climbers and chewers when bored, and they have a strong prey drive that makes recall unreliable for life. They bond closely with their family, can be aloof with strangers, and are best with respectful older children. Training requires patience and creativity; obedience is not their priority. Who the Basenji is right for: an experienced, patient owner who wants a clean, quiet (not barkless-equals-silent), catlike companion, will keep it leashed or securely fenced for life, and finds an independent dog charming rather than frustrating. Who it is wrong for: a first-time owner wanting an obedient, off-leash, eager-to-please dog, or a home with free-roaming small pets and an unsecured yard.