Hi Luc,
If you brought your puppy home from a breeder they will often help. If this is not an option please be very cautious in your next steps to rehome your puppy.

I volunteer with Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT) and can guide you to educated, caring and experienced Basenji owners who can help you with your decision to rehome your puppy. The website: basenjirescue.org

BRAT has volunteers nationwide (I don’t know your location). Please do not relinquish the puppy to a shelter. BRAT will make every attempt to work with you to see that the puppy is placed in a screened home for safety and experience.
Thank you.

Yes.
Every dog, every Basenji can be different but in my experience this is a breed that stands their ground.
Call it stubborn. Call it territorial.
But be prepared to either flex, consider your battles on what is truly important or,
Know that positive reinforcement is the greatest tool in your tool belt.
This is not a breed for the faint of heart.
However, if you love independent thinking, marvel at mischief and respect and love a dog that identifies and loves you back because they choose to do so.
Not because you feed or caretaker them.
It is because they choose to love you.
Be prepared for walks. Chases. Adventures.

Hi!
Thank you for helping this dog.
Please do see if someone has lost their dog as it can be terrifying when your loved pet escapes or gets lost.
In regards to your question my answer is:no.
Basenjis are a unique breed that require (thrive) within the care of an equally devoted human. Without interaction, stimulation, socialization you risk this dog’s temperament developing into much less than the potential they could reach.
The bond that forms with the Basenji and their caretaker is quite special. Unlike other (many other) canines, Basenjis also need supervision for safety and have additional dietary and health needs.
As you weigh out your decision please consider placement through Basenji Rescue & Transport. basenjirescue.org
This is a national group for the support, adoption and specialized care of Basenjis. Contact if you have questions or concerns—no pressure to place your new friend—just good people to help you understand this breed and make an informed decision.

This info was sent to us from a member of BCOA:
Improved Methodology For FANCONI LINKAGE Tests: FTA Paper / Saliva Option

A new process has been implemented for ordering Fanconi tests that uses saliva rather than blood for sample collection using FTA paper. Dr Johnson may still request blood for some research projects, but in many cases, the FTA paper will satisfy that requirement. The new procedure will also allow you to check the status of your test request online with use of a conformation code that will be emailed to you when the order is placed.

You can now order a test on the internet and pay by credit card. The price the kit and test will be $65 to cover the cost of the kit and mailing.

The test can be ordered from one of two websites:

1- The The Canine Phenome Project website

From the dogs profile page in this site, click Fanconi Test. This will link you directly to the OFA site to order the test kit.

2- The OFA site. [[url]www.offa.org]
Go to the "OFA DNA Testing" link on the OFA website

The test kit will allow the use of saliva applied to a special paper card that can then be returned to the lab. The special paper (FTA paper) will supply enough DNA samples for over twenty tests so when the direct marker is found, no further DNA collection will be required. Adding the dog to the Canine Phenome site is still required before results will be sent, but the ordering the test kit is a separate entry at this point.

The kit consists of the

FTA card
Foam swab to collect the saliva
Instructions
Labels for mailing to the University of Missouri
Any tests in progress from the previous procedure will be completed.

The OFA and the University of Missouri have entered into a cooperative agreement to offer this new procedure.

Thank you!

It's been my experience I just have to grab an umbrella or raincoat and get the leash out…the idea of a walk no matter what the weather or time of day will provide them the relief they need and the assurance you need they have been provided the opportunity to go. It may take some time until your Basenji understands that's the way it works but stay consistent! Good luck!

Info sent from BCOA:
Improved Methodology For FANCONI LINKAGE Tests: FTA Paper / Saliva Option

A new process has been implemented for ordering Fanconi tests that uses saliva rather than blood for sample collection using FTA paper. Dr Johnson may still request blood for some research projects, but in many cases, the FTA paper will satisfy that requirement. The new procedure will also allow you to check the status of your test request online with use of a conformation code that will be emailed to you when the order is placed.

You can now order a test on the internet and pay by credit card. The price the kit and test will be $65 to cover the cost of the kit and mailing.

The test can be ordered from one of two websites:

1- The The Canine Phenome Project website

From the dogs profile page in this site, click Fanconi Test. This will link you directly to the OFA site to order the test kit.

2- The OFA site. [[url]www.offa.org]
Go to the "OFA DNA Testing" link on the OFA website

The test kit will allow the use of saliva applied to a special paper card that can then be returned to the lab. The special paper (FTA paper) will supply enough DNA samples for over twenty tests so when the direct marker is found, no further DNA collection will be required. Adding the dog to the Canine Phenome site is still required before results will be sent, but the ordering the test kit is a separate entry at this point.

The kit consists of the

FTA card
Foam swab to collect the saliva
Instructions
Labels for mailing to the University of Missouri
Any tests in progress from the previous procedure will be completed.

The OFA and the University of Missouri have entered into a cooperative agreement to offer this new procedure.

Thank you!

Hi–sorry to hear about your incident. Homeowners policies do differ according to state law. Medical insurance and Emergency Room care are subject to state laws as well. I audit hospital accounts and have worked in an ER. I can tell you all dog bites treated in an ER are reported and it can affect how the policy pays for treatment (or, if they pay depending on the circumstances). Good luck with all of this and I hope it can be resolved in a civil manner.

Hello to all!
I saw a posting from BRAT and a member who suggested the "buddy belt" harness. I was able to locate a shop in Philly although they do have them on ebay (depends on the size you need). My 2 Basenjis LOVE them and I love the fact when we walk no stress on their necks. They are kinda spendy but absolutely worth the $$. I haven't seen either of my 2 try to chew them–they are just so happy when I get them out because they know it means a walk! A good tip from the shopkeeper was: if you are on the verge of the next size--choose the smaller size as leather will stretch somewhat with wear. You can google Buddy Belt harness to view them on the internet. Good luck to you and yours. Michele, Gibby and Poe

LOL..That could be my Gibby! He ADORES Animal Planet. When we get up in the morning I put it on until I am ready to go out for our walk and he has even picked up his food bowl and moved it in the LR in front of the TV (yes–he has seen me dine in front of the TV and mimics me). I won't even discuss the $$ spent on remotes or the fact the TV in my bedroom has been changed to "Spanish lingo" audio because I swear he is trying to change stations. B's are so smart!

The District Coord is William Key for that area. Go to the www.basenjirescue.org website to inquire about him. Good luck and oh yeah–Paxton is cute!

Gibbs likes to explore the shower too..but ONLY if he knows he can exit upon choice. I have found him dancing around in the bathtub trying to rip up the suction cup plastic (need I say more?) bathmat many, many times. He also learned to flip the lever up and turn the water on to get a drink! I was worried about the hot water lever so I have taken to closing the bathroom door. He only gets entry to the bathroom if I am home and can keep an eye on him and what he is up to. If he does leave my side I KNOW I better check and see what his bad-boy-self is investigating….as for grooming: unless he is a muddy mess, no bath. He will allow it but looks insulted. The pet wipes will help sometimes but most of the year he does his own Basenji-self-cleaning-ritual. Gibby adores the glove brushing! He thinks that's pure Momma-love time and I just talk to him as he gets a brushing so he thinks of it as petting. The vet attends to his nails and on occasion if he is tired and sitting on my lap I can use an emery board to smooth them.. We are on our 10th toothbrush--it's not that he so strongly dislikes the teeth cleaning but he flippin' loves finding where I store the toothbrush for him (ugh). He really had some damaged teeth and I just try to clean them as best as I can. He allows you to use the finger-swab brushes easily as he thinks he's getting a treat. It's so funny how particular they can be..

Ok, his name is Gibby (unknown reason he came to me through BRAT) but I call him Gibbs, G Unit Special Forces, "G", Gibson, Magnificent G, Gibbsters, Mr G, Baby G–I'm sure you get it...oh yeah, he knows when you are talking about HIM

Definitely find a Basenji informed vet. I had a Basenji mix who's coat/skin became afflicted and we added a supplement (after diagnostic testing mentioned above) which was "Efazil" if I remember correctly. A liquid vitamin form to her food the vet's office supplied. Be cautious with the bathing–that can worsen the condition initially. The thyroid studies should guide you in the right direction and the correct balance of food should help. I really wish you the best and please let us know what you learn.

Please consider www.basenjirescue.org as a resource. So many dogs need homes and they can be of great support to you! I wish you the best.

LOL @breaking the law! That says it all!
My only caution about using items such as shoes or socks might be it's hard for them to know it's NOT ok to steal your laundry and everyday shoes. I try to find the fuzzy stuffed animals they like to throw around and maul (again: NOT ok if you have kittens/cats). B's are hard to engage in play at times–they don't consider it a worthwhile occupation of their time if not fully challenged. Chasing and running are fun to them--try and incorporate some of that?

I think a nice long walk does help with car anxiety. It allows them the time to "do their thing: and everyone knows an exercised B is a calmer B….the only other article I once read offered advice on giving a small bit of ice cream to settle their belly. Most dogs do not do well with ice cream but they do make ice cream for dogs (Frosty Paws) and you could try that I suppose. Perhaps if the car ride was associated with "good times" it might lessen the anxiety a little. Like any species, if your B really has motion sickeness all you can do is to try and be alert to it and maintain hydration. It's good you are aware and I'm sure you will take care. My best to you and your Chance. M

I am no expert by any means on behavior but have fostered and adopted B's that came different home situations. I came to understand what "snarky" meant quickly. What I have observed and learned is that B's respond differently to the presence and statue of a person in direct proportion to their location (do not attempt to wake, stand over and try to pick up, do not reach for them if they feel ill at ease, etc). Most of it is logical but unless you observe their interactions with other animals do you gain a sense of their true personality and how they react to interaction. I have seen my B greet his favorite playmates (dogs) with a nip and rough play. It may not be acceptable to humans but then you have to stand back and define your boundaries (as the alpha). It's very difficult NOT to make nice with them after they have shown bad behaviors as they are cute, smart and well–as humans we just seek acceptance. What you might try is not accepting the behavior as mentioned. Give a firm NO and walk away (never strike back and I'm sure you already know that and are a kind person). Be consistent and realize this could take a longggggg period of time. B's test boundaries unlike any breed of dog. They are very intelligent. The book that helped me so much was listed on a BRAT website: Cesar Milan. Good luck!

Only in the Basenji world could any of us recognize the sheer trash horror and simplicity….I laughed and cried for you! I do not have a show dog but I could so imagine that happening! Even gum or antics cannot take away from the sheer regal beauty B's behold. My best to you and yours--M

Makes for a decorative backyard but it breaks the routine of walks on a leash–any "skill" course seems to trigger the inate ability of challenge.

Welcome to Basenjiland 101. This forum covers it all and I wish I had known more when I first took on a Basenji. I'm thankful it is here now and love learning. Congrats on your new addition and I'm sure you will have some funny stories to share..Basenjis are as comical as they are challenging!