I am not very internet savvy so this is me again (janine) posting my questions in the reply box because I can't figure out were to write them.

Most importantly I need to find a dog that is capable of being trained to go pheasant hunting with my Husband. I have read that they are capable of being a good hunting companion, but I never see anyone discussing this at all when I log in to any Basenjis websights. Can they learn to point, retrieve, flush,…....? If they are capable are they naturals or is it very difficult to teach them any of these skills? Being so full of energy i'm sure they would love the experience but will they also be helpfull?
More importanty will he or she apppreciate Smarty? She is the friendliest dog I have ever known. She is happy to be second fiddle, she just wants to play no matter what the terms. She is a big puppy and I think she will be that way for quit awhile. She is full of energy and wants to run, swim,swim,swim and play for hours! I know they will have a lot of differences in personality. I am not looking for the same dog. I just want to be sure they will enjoy each other's company. Also, Smarty is fixed.
I am not really concerned about my children. they are very respectfull of animals. They will love another pet.
As for myself, I want a dog a can cuddle. As friendly as Smarty is she is not a cuddler. In general do basenjis enjoy close human contact?
I have read that female Basenjis are my best choice if I already own a female dog. Is this True?
I have seen many times that they are not to be trusted. If you open the front door will they run? Can you hike through the wood and keep them off leash? Of course I don't mean when they are puppies but do they grow out of alot of their puppy behaviors. Behaviorly do they mature slowly?
I think i'v posed enough questions for now. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks Janine

Hi,
My name is Janine. I do not own a basenji. I have been researching many breeds to find the right dog for myself and my family. That includes my current dog. Her name is Smarty and she is almost two years old. She is Half Golden Retriever half Standard Poodle. She is a wonderful dog who needs a animal playmate.
I also have four young boys: ages 8yrs. old, twins 7yrs.old, and a 4yr. old. My husband also loves dogs and we have made the desision to add another dog to our family.
I have been reading alot about the Basenji breed and I know I would fall in love with one. It is the rest of the family I am concerned about.
I don't take pet ownership lightly and know it is important to make the correct fit. I am hoping to make a definate desicion based on the feedback I recieve on this Forum.