Let's also consider that when you chase your dog, the dog thinks it's a game and will run away from you. Like... "you can't catch me!" Man, Basenji's can bolt! On the other hand, when you are the one running away, the dog instinctively joins you because you are part of the dog's family/pack. This is not to be confused with a learned command to chase an assailant, in Police work, for example. That would be a totally different game of chase.
Vicious towards strangers
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i have had my basenji for 2 1/2 years and he is very vicious towards strangers and he wont even let them walk through my house. he doesn't listen and he is constantly ripping everything apart. every time i open the door he tries his absolute hardest to escape and then i have to chase him through the neighborhood. i dont know what to do. PLEASE HELP!
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has he always been this way towards strangers? Have you had him since he was a pup? How about socializing with other dogs/people?
Has he been through some obedience classes? -
I would say if you can, get some private training.
Taking the dog to an open class my not be the best idea.
There was a referral page someone posted not to long ago here.
Sounds like your dog is bored and destructive. Take the dog for a long walk everyday to tire him out.
Crate training would be a good idea.
Remember only positive training works with basenji's. They will do anything for treats.
You need to start from square one, before working with strangers. You need to be in control of your dog.
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Try to find an animal behaviorist near you to help you with your issues.
It sounds like he needs exercise (helps stop destruction) for one, some obedience training (1:1 training will help with his escaping) and behavior modification to help him with his fear/agression with strangers.
Hope This helps!
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i have had my basenji for 2 1/2 years and he is very vicious towards strangers and he wont even let them walk through my house. he doesn't listen and he is constantly ripping everything apart. every time i open the door he tries his absolute hardest to escape and then i have to chase him through the neighborhood. i dont know what to do. PLEASE HELP!
Have you talked to the breeder? And I also would suggest calling a behaviorist asap…
Have you done any obedience training with him?
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A good breeder will and should help with any & all problems to a point, or at least for a small fee, personally train & evaluate your situation.
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If you're good with books, I'd suggest Click to Calm
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Did you get him as a puppy or an adult.
I will be very interested to see some answers to this and the above questions. -
Has he always been like this, or is it new behavior? If new, I would suggest a physical exam with full panel thyroid check. Low thyroid or other health issues could be causing his behavior. If this is normal for him, I agree with all of the above, checking with breeder and getting 1:1 training with a positive trainer. And LOTS of exercise, a tired dog is a god dog.
Anne in Tampa
