@Duke:
Well, not necessarily - because popularity brings to light information. People would then know Basenji's are not the docile, people pleasing Golden Retriever and instead know they are a stubborn handful, best for folks that love a challenge. But I do agree that if in fact an increase in puppy mills would result, then keeping it quiet is best.
I came upon Duke very quickly. If I knew he was a Basenji, had the opportunity to dive into researching this breed before I got him, I probably would have passed on him. I was more of the Retriever, Golden, Yellow, Black lab kind of person. The longer I had him, the more I loved him - even as mean as he was when a puppy. Thankfully - this forum brought me so much information and help in training him - I am now a Basenji gal.
I agree Jill. It isn't like the basenji is a secret now. Open any 'what dog breed is right for me' book, and they are pretty easy to find. And most of those books make them sound pretty darn near perfect. Great size, no smell, no bark, little shedding, easy to train (?)…I think we have to be out there telling the public what the real story is. And honestly....they can be GREAT dogs....otherwise would would all of us love them so much?
I think we have to walk a thin line between making accurate infomation available for people who are truly a good match for a Basenji, and educating those that would be frustrated by their antics. Trying to hide them, or paint them as worse than they are is just as wrong as trying to advertise them as the perfect pet.