Contemplative new owner
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As one that's jumped off the deep end with these things, I would say this.
It will require some adjustment on your part to keep these dogs. If you're not willing to do that, I wouldn't get one.
If you do consider one, please contact a responsible breeder.
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Great read- I never recommend someone to get a basenji- I don't many people that have the dedication
Also they are not odorless they can smell like fritos corn chips, but they never stink up a house.
http://basenji.20m.com/ReasonsNottoGet.htm
2. They can be destructive. Basenjis get bored very easily. If you do not give them something to do, they will FIND something to do. It usually involves ruining something you value, but irresistible to them. They will eat almost anything: paper, Kleenex, toilet tissue, q-tips, plastic, wood, carpet, kids toys, etc. They must be crated when not supervised, for their own safety, as well as that of your belongings. It is true, they are worse as puppies, and most will get better with age. However, some don't, and the time it takes to 'get better' and the degree of 'getting better' varies a lot. Some turn into perfect angels, some are always troublemakers.
3. They are hard to train. For thousands of years, the basenji has had to be an independent thinker to survive. Therefore, they do not see the need to obey humans. Positive training methods must be used and even then, they usually only obey if it doesn't interfere with what they want. I have found that you must trick the basenji into thinking that what you want, is what he wants.
6. They are a high energy breed. A basenji may appear calm and aloof. But if he does not get enough exercise, he begins to release his energy in ways we humans do not approve of, mainly destroying things. If you do not have a fenced yard, plan on taking lots of walks. Every day. Ask me about lure coursing. It is a great sport, and uses up that basenji energy in a positive way, allowing the dog to do what it was bred to do, hunt and run. Basenjis can be happy in the city, in apartments, or condos, but only with owners who understand they will have to devote a lot of time and energy keeping their basenji happy
7. They need human companionship. They can not just be left out in the yard, fed, watered, but not part of the family. They must be included in your life, as they consider themselves one of the family. They require a lot of time and attention, acting like 2 year old children much of the time. If you work long hours, think long and hard if you will be able to furnish the companionship a basenji needs.
9. They have an almost uncontrollable 'chase' instinct. Little critters beware! However, if raised with cats, they can live in peace. I do not however recommend them in homes with hamsters, ferrets, gerbils, birds, and especially rabbits unless they can be isolated.
10. They are stubborn. If you are a control freak and demand complete obedience, do not get this breed. They will not back down, and you can end up with a confused, aggressive animal.
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I agree with everyone who has said that all dogs are capable of destruction and the real key to a happy household is training, exercise, and mental stimulation for your dog. I will also add that I think getting a dog from a responsible breeder really helps for 2 very important reasons. The first is that a responsible breeder will do a lot with their puppies to socialize them so when you bring your puppy home they have had a good head start and the second is that a responsible breeder talks with the puppy buyers to understand their expectations and requirements so they can match the puppy with the home. For an active household a more active dog can work out great because they get lots of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them out of trouble but in a fairly low key household that same dog might be a horrible match because it does not get enough activity to keep it occupied.
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Hi Bogie. I'm glad you took my advice and came to this board. :) These are the stories I wanted you to hear prior to making a commitment to the breed. Basenji owners will be honest about the breed's funny little quirks, things you won't see researching general information. This breed is a challenge to live with at times but as you can see, if the breed is right for a person, the person is "hooked" for life. If you wish to chat further about Rocky, you have my number. :D
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This is a better decision than to get a basenji and THEN find out it won't work.
Good luck on your next pet. -
Bogie has decided that a Basenji is not a good match for her family.
Kudos to her for actually doing some research!!
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Kudos to her for actually doing some research!!
Yes and no. Bogie had found all of the misinformation on the internet and had pretty much made her decision to get a Basenji based on that. During our phone conversation, she was quite suprised by the breed quirks I mentioned. I suggested she come here to read about people's real life experiences. She did and then she went to visit some Basenjis. Basenjis just weren't a good match for her family and I commend her for following through and making such a smart decision.
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I agree Robyn, there is lots of mis information about Basenjis on some site out there but there are also sites that have the correct information. On think too is that many people will "read" only what they want to hear… but I am glad that she at least call to talk to someone that has them and also made that visit. When I get inquiries I always tell people, Please visit in person with Basenjis.....
