@basenjicurious
It’s great that you’re doing your homework on the basenji. I think the reason you read all these “horror stories” is because they are not your typical dog. They are a beautiful and highly intelligent breed with a very strong prey drive. My Kembe is my first basenji but I was familiar with the breed because my brothers were basenji owners. I got her when she was 1years old - she was returned to the breeder by the previous owners. Kembe has never been destructive, she has free reign of our house, and I can leave her at home alone. It’s extremely important to exercise them regularly - especially exercise and stimulate their minds, and establish a routine (I can set my watch to my dog). They are definitely trainable - it scares me to see how smart she is and also well behaved. Basenjis are extremely lovable and hilariously funny. If I have a treat that my dog especially likes - she will do her whole “repertoire of tricks” without me even asking her. She dances to let me know it’s time to eat and will sit right next to me and hit me with her paw when she wants to go for her walk.
I think our basenji chose us - when we went to the breeders home to look at her - She jumped up next to my husband on the couch and curled up! I was sold on her! I really hope you find a basenji that right for you!
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Smart Basenji - Dumb Owner!
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This morning I ran the water and filled my coffee cup up to make some instant and she was right there and stared at me and the cup. I told her no, it's for me. The third time it happened, I went DUH! Sure enough, her water dish was empty. Always amazed at these critters!
Dave -
My B's water dish will evaporate before he touches it but he will take a drink from the toilet. :eek:
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They figure out how to get our attention one way or another.
I usually get reminded if I'm 30-60 minutes late of feeding Kananga. Of course he will not remind me if I somehow feed him twice by mistake.
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If I am late feeding or his water dish it empty my guy will actually bring me his dish and put it on my lap. They are so smart!
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If I'm late going out to lunch (a daily event) my guy will sometimes bring his Kong upstairs to remind me to fill it for him. He is really saying "Would you please get out of here so I can have my lunch?" (he gets the filled Kong and a roller ball full of kibble). Not bad for a dog that used to have separation anxiety…...now he lobbies for us to leave!
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If Shaye's water dish is empty she will come and stare at me then walk into the kitchen; if I'm sitting on the couch, she will bounce the decorative bowl on my coffee table a few times and stare at me. If I'm too engrossed to notice, she will go throw her water dish around making enough noise so I have to notice. Smart dog, stupid owner indeed.
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HaHaHa! these stories are so funny! I guess this is what I have to look forward to. Thanks for sharing.
