Hi,
I think it depends on your particular basenji. I grew up with 2 basenjis when I was in my teens who stayed at home loose in the house, and the most they would do was shred a roll of toilet paper. After they both passed, my family got 2 new ones. These dogs ate a couch while we were at home, just not watching them. We were so mad. The new rules are that the dogs are either in the crate, outside or in the house with 24/7 eyes on them. They are never left around our new furniture unattended. Overall, it depends on your specific dog.