Skip to content

Introducing a New Basenji to our family

Basenji Talk
  • We currently have a 1 year old male (Brixton) and we are getting him a sister in the next 2 weeks. My question is, should we introduce them in a certain way? Brix has always been the playful type and always enjoys other dogs. We don’t feel like he would act in any way negatively because he’s so young and playful. Any advice you can give us on the introduction? The rest we can definitely take care of considering we’re both self employed and are home every day, so training and all that will be the usual.

    Thanks in advance!

    -Devin

  • The best thing I can think of is for you to take one of Brixton's blankets to the breeder, so the puppy can sleep with it and become familiar with his smell. At the same time, ask for something with the pups smell on it and expose Brixton to it in the same way. The purpose is to allow the dogs to become familiar with eachother. When you do bring the puppy home, the "aromatherapy" will bridge the gap and neither dog will think of the other as a stranger.

    This could be the simplest, most proactive thing you could accomplish before picking up the puppy.

  • With a puppy it will probably go just fine. With adults it is usually best to introduce them on neutral ground, then once they are getting along take them to home turf. When I brought a pup home I already had a seven year old adult, and she walked around stiff legged for a couple of days before she accepted the new arrival, but never offered to hurt her. With a one year old I expect your only concern is that he doesn't want to play too rough.

  • @theoriginaldev As others have said, an older dog would be better on neutral ground. A puppy will probably go really well. From my own experience, a bit of initial posturing from the older dog, then when they realize it’s playtime...the games will commence. Good luck!

Suggested Topics

  • New Basenji Slide Bed

    Basenji Talk
    8
    0 Votes
    8 Posts
    3k Views
    eeeefarmE
    I remember when I was a child there were two Great Danes at a store we used to frequent in summer. They were very patient with children, even the ones that tried to ride on their backs! I am sure a Basenji pup is less objectionable than a toddler. :)
  • New Basenji Friend!

    Basenji Talk
    5
    0 Votes
    5 Posts
    3k Views
    S
    didn't realize the kjaanbutt was spam sorry!
  • Basenji Family

    Basenji Talk
    12
    0 Votes
    12 Posts
    3k Views
    nala121498N
    So…kinda like "Six Degrees of Separation" (or fewer), huh? Very cool.
  • Trying to introduce new b

    Basenji Talk
    3
    0 Votes
    3 Posts
    2k Views
    QuercusQ
    @nomrbddgs: She may always be nasty, or it may be a newcomer thing. I have always had younger B's coming into my home. I've never introduced an older B into my home or an older dog for that matter. Perhaps some of the others have more experience. I know the domesticated dogs (most of them) would get over it, but I'm not sure about a B. I agree…I think it is too soon to tell. She is scared, and hurt, I don't think you can get an accurate assessment at this point. I would keep them separated until she is feeling 100% better, and more comfortable, then go slowly. But let your family know that she may have to go to another home, if the dogs can't work it out.
  • Introducing a new Basenji into

    Basenji Talk
    4
    0 Votes
    4 Posts
    3k Views
    jys1011J
    From what I understand…after reading a bit. Take the dogs for a long walk together...I mean REEEEAAALLY long. Have them get to know their territory & tire them out. Once tired & they've made the association that they are now part of your pack the meeting will go smoother (hopefully). Allow them to meet & greet but keep an eye out for signals...threatening behavior like lots of lip licking, growls, teeth, etc. if need be just get in between them & stay calm. They will now how to calm each other & they will know how to communicate with each other. GOOD LUCK & CONGRATS!!! :D
  • Is a Basenji right for my family?

    Basenji Talk
    14
    0 Votes
    14 Posts
    4k Views
    AndrewA
    I really appreciate all of the replies… the advice & suggestions are invaluable. With everything in perspective, I feel I lot better, and I can't wait to meet some Basenjis! I think we may go meet some this week, and we're both really excited! Thanks again! Carrie