@suzee:
I just adopted a 10yr red and white purebred Basenji named Congo from BRAT….....As a new Basenji owner I'm open to any tips/suggestions!Thanks!
Welcome to the forum! Although I am also a brand new member, I've been "lurking" for awhile, and finally decided to jump in and join. I've had the privilege of being "owned" by 5 Basenjis over the past 45 years, and I like to think I have some insight into the breed's quirks.
As someone who has had three "previously enjoyed" Basenjis, the one tip I would like to pass along is that it can take awhile for the dog to understand that this relationship is indeed permanent. With a dog that has been through a few homes, there may be an uncertainty as to whether he is staying or soon moving on. With a dog that has had only one previous home, he may indeed think his "Mom" has left him temporarily and will soon return.
My current Basenji, Perry, took the longest of any of my three adoptees to recognize that this was his forever home. I would say it was at least six months before he was fully relaxed and sure that he was home for good. Although he was never difficult, per se, I felt a change…...sort of like he took a deep breath and relaxed......and after that he was definitely "at home".
Your boy looks like a wonderful Basenji from his picture. At ten years, he is likely quite laid back and should embrace the change better perhaps than a younger dog. It's great that you found each other.....but be warned, as I once told my husband when I convinced him our home needed a dog, "There is nothing like a Basenji"! They are positively addictive, and even if you have a little troublemaker, they spoil you for any other breed!