I've been doing rescue and breeding (not Basenjis, and not for 20 yrs now)... and I have to say that among responsible trainers, rescues, breeders and professional veterinary behaviorists, you won't find any who will say under 8 weeks is okay for any breed... and for many, 10 to 12 weeks is recommended. It is in fact illegal to take puppies under 8 weeks from some states and it should be in all of them. Call a few dozen rescues and ask them how many animals they deal with that have issues started from being placed too young. It is good you are working on things, just hopefully the physical responses won't continue. No breed needs to be swatted or even mildly hurt for training. Basenjis even less so than many. It hurts your relationship with the puppy, and you are punishing a baby for being a baby... there is no "rebellious thing"... just normal behavior you have to patiently train away from.
New Puppy, My little Gracie
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Do you know, did her sire/dam have the fanconi test done?
If not, you will want to. -
What is a Fancion test??
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Fanconi is an inherited kidney disease that can be prevented by doing a DNA test on the parents prior to breeding.
For information on the disease check out this link:
http://www.basenji.org/PUBLIC/HealthInfo.htmFor infomation about the test check out this link:
http://www.basenjihealth.org/linkage-faq.htmlIf you know the registered names or registration numbers for Gracie's parents just type them into the Search field at the OFA site, http://www.offa.org
If they have been tested their results will show up in the database.
If they have not been tested then order a test kit for Gracie, https://secure.offa.org/cart.html
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golfrules, this test is very important to you. It will let you know what to expect for the future.
Its worth the price to know if your dog will get sick. -
Can it be done on the puppy? I don't have access to the parents.
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Oh, yes, order the cheek swap…use it on your girl and in a bit of time, you will know.
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Just how does one order this cheek swap? At my local vet?
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No, my friend, go up and read lvoss post. Do what is says. It will let you know what the future holds for you and your beloved Gracie.
Please, do this. Its a bit of a hassle. So worth it. -
I understand now. I visited the site and will order the test tomorrow. Geoff
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Good, that is a very good thing. Let us know how it turns out. Most are good news, and we are here to celebrate with you…
I am so very glad your open to this information. -
She is adorable, congrat on your new addition.
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You should also visit www.basenji.org and www.basenjihealth.org and learn about other Basenji health concerns.
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Geoff, all your Dogs are lovely, i've never heard of a Blue Tick Coon Hound before.
Your right Basenjis have beautiful neat feet, have you noticed that the two middle pads on each foot are joined at the bottom like a Wolves. -
What a beauty! Please keep posting those pics, I love her. We have a brindle boy but he is not as dark as Gracie.
