Thank you. Yes, our breeder is litter box training. Our first Basenji was a mix (Basenji and Retriever), but she had a lot of Basenji ways. She was already housebroken when we got her, so we didn’t have to worry about that task. We will definitely continue the litter box training until he is old enough to be outside and it is warmer.
Ready for basenji
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Renaultf1's suggestions are right on. I always agree that a follow up phone call is a good idea. As said, some are really good about email, some are not. And email can get lost in "cyberspace" as we all know happens.
And regardless of the breeder you choose, you should always check out health results on your own. Here is a good link for finding a breeder. www.basenji.org/learn and go to screening breeders. You can also find information about health and health testing on the parent club site.
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Also, find out where there is a local dog show. Go watch the b's and talk to the folks showing after the are done.
Now, most show breeders are great at testing..some, not so much, but you have the info, above, you need to check them out.
Let us know how it goes.
Good for you for doing your homework BEFORE you get a pup. -
yep, definitely don't cross anyone off your list until you talk to them. I have been guilty in the past of not getting back to someone inquiring about a puppy…particularly when I am not planning a litter any time soon. Give the breeder the benefit of the doubt, and try to contact one more time
Also, the more info you can give in your introductory message, the better...I am much less likely to respond to a thoughtfully written note about why you think you want a B...than "I am looking for a male puppy in December...how much are yours?"
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The next show in PA is at the State Farm Show Building in Harrisburg 17-19 April. Preliminary counts say that there should be just a few basenjis there - 17 on Sat, 15 on Sunday, and 10 on Monday I will have two dogs entered on all three days. If you'd like more info just let me know.
Karen
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hi Chris - welcome to the forum. Way to go for doing research before buying a basenji. You'll be happy that you did.
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Thanks for the reply's everbody. I have been checking everything I can online including www.offa.org and http://www.pedigrees.zandebasenjis.com.
This is my first time searching for a puppy and I was basically just trying to find out how I should interact with breeders. I understand they are very busy and I don't want to be a pest nor do I want to be overlooked as someone just sorta interested. I am just trying to cover all bases and I 'm probably a little too excited about finally having the opportunity to own a dog. Thanks again.Chris
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hi caseeno8 - my first personal contact with a couple of breeders and a basenji/all breeds rescue worker/advocate were at a dog show and were wonderful. I was honoured to meet Sharron Hurlbut who is on this forum. It was a most warm meeting. Though Sharron was busy, she took the time to introduce me to two breeders, one who I have maintained email contact with because I am impressed with her dogs and her breeding ethics.
I have to tell you that both of the breeders spent a fair amount of time talking to me about their dogs and their breeding programs. I'm not sure if all dog breeders are the same, but I found the basenji folks very willing to talk about their dogs. One breeder thought I was perfectly normal when I asked to sniff one of her dogs. Okay, that just did it for me, because not only did I love what I smelled (pure warmth and love), but the breeder probably got a good idea of the love I want to give one of these splendid dogs in the future. That and the fact that I am a total basenji lover.
So I would have to say that visiting a dog show and finding the basenji breeders is probably the best way to get to know a breeder. From there, keep in contact with them so that eventually you may be able to visit their homes, see their dogs, and get a better feel for their breeding program. Good luck, and remember that all questions are either answered on here or via personal e-mail contact.
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Thanks for the nice words Fran. I think your petty swell as well.
I do know any b that falls into your hands will be very well loved, treated… -
My experience is that we meet lovely breeders at dog shows. They may hand you a leash and you get to hold their basenji for a half hour, or tell you that you will be running them in show the ring if their friend doesn't show up! ( a lovely woman who had 2 of her own to show, they would be the only ones in that particular round, and the dog was a "self shower"). Her friend showed up so my brief career as a handler ended before it started, luck for the dog. Go, introduce yourself, be genuine and hopefully they will be too.
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I do have to brag about the breeders in the PNW. A quality group to be sure!
If you have any chance to come up to Seattle in Aug. There is a basenji show you will not want to miss. -
Hubby and I are in for the August show!
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Caseeno8 - Here's the schedule for the Basenjis at the Harrisburg shows:
Sat - 0900 Ring 8
Sun - 1230 Ring 9
Mon - 0830 Ring 11 -
Thanks for the ring times Karen!
