I know many people are against the "shock collar". It may have been a very painful and inhumane tool in it's history. I haven't really researched the earlier generations of the shock collar, so I can't speak intelligently about those.

We do, however, have a shock/beep collar for Paxton that has a 100 yard radius. I have to say, it's been wonderful for nature walks (I wouldn't recommend it for "around the neighborhood"). The collar we use allows you to set the shock level (I can hold it in my hand and execute a shock on level 4 without much physical reaction) to a setting that is able to get the dog's attention, or simply just "beep" or page the collar that sets off a bell to let your dog know he's crossing a line. It also has a built in safety that only allows the execution of a shock for 8 seconds in case you get too crazy or accidently press the button in your pocket without realizing it before it will turn off completely (I know 8 seconds worth of shock is horrible, but come on, it's better than forever).We've only had to shock Paxton a few times after giving the warning page before he learned to respond to the beep. Since then, when we go hiking Paxton usually runs up and down the trails with us close in front or behind. If I feel he's getting to far ahead or may decide to pursue in a chase (I realize he is a sighthound) a good whistle or call get's his attention.

However, as I noted earlier, I would never recommend the collar as an alternative to a leash around any streets or dangers in the neighborhood. It is just a shock (even on level 10, which feels like a taser). Which means, just like humans, if the "juice is worth the squeeze" the Basenji will probably go for it. Small price to pay to chase that rabbit you've been itching for all week. I realize and understand the hatred for shock collar's. However in my opinion, if your intention is to try and train you Basenji to respond to your voice while out for a stroll, and you understand that it really is just a safety measure (your still rolling the dice, they're just heavy), the collar should work out nicely.

Paxton just kept running down the stairs to the door and back up again only to perch at the top and yodel for a minute. He seemed to be amused by the noise. Last year I don't remember him reacting at all to them.

Paxton hates the water. He dreads going out in the rain. However, when we go to the park and the local labs are playing in the left over puddles, he has the time of his life in the water. He just loves it!

We also fostered 2 other basenjis whom never seemed to mind the rain. The most recent was kept as an outside dog before the original family gave him up. That might have had something to do with it. It didn't matter if it was hot and dry, or pouring down rain turn to snow, he was just as happy to trot around outside.

Well the CUTEST basenji you all are talking about would our dog Paxton. He is the best dog in the world and we love him. He is very energetic and seems to love my boyfriend and I very much. He is one spoiled dog though, we run him twice a day and buy him whatever he seems to sniff at the pet store. It is funny to see that are little Paxton is a famous baensji in this forum but he is in a loving home and we couldnt be more thrilled to have him in our lives.