@Mango:
Have you found him to be destructive when he's left alone in the apartment? I'm hopefully getting my first basenji next spring, and I'm already grappling with the whole crate/confinement/freedom debate in my head.
Definitely crate until he/she is old enough to be alone and not go potty, and has an understanding for what is a chewtoy and what isn't.
I only stopped crating when he was 100% fine with being in his crate.
Don't underestimate the power and usefulness of crate training. It's important they are used to being in one. What if they have to stay overnight at a vet? Or if you are going to travel with your dog? Plane, car, etc..
Aslo if you have guests, and they are not comfortable with dogs, or have small children, it's good to have them in a crate.