The Basenji, an ancient African dog breed
		by BUDDY AMATO
		The Basenji is an ancient breed that was first discovered with the pygmy hunters. The breed looks like a Jack Russell and a Shiba Inu crossed together. Basenjis are very energetic and they make great watchdogs. However, they are NOT the easiest breed of dog to train; this breed takes a lot of personal devotion to get it to perform the way you want. It is not the breed to choose if you do not have the time required to dedicate towards obedience training. The way the dog was used for hunting in Africa was they herded their prey and drove the game into the nets that were held by their pygmy hunting companions. In the 1930s, the breed was successfully brought to England after several prior failed attempts. That is when the dog was giving the name of Basenji, which means "bush thing." In the 1950s, the dog became very popular mainly due to the book and movie "Goodbye, My Lady" that aired. The Basenji is also referred to as the barkless dog, a trait that to some owners is a plus as they prefer dogs that do not bark much. As far as features, the Basenji has almond-shaped eyes, fine wrinkles on its forehead which are pronounced when the ears become erect, small oval feet, small pricked ears, a short back and a tail that bends acutely forward and lies well-curled over either side. The colors of the Basenji are red, black, black and tan or brindle with all white feet. The chest and tail tips are white along with the legs and some have white collars. If you decide on this breed you have to remember it needs a lot of physical and mental exercise. This is not a breed that will be appreciated without it. Did you know: The Basenji was once known only as the Congo dog? The basenji does not bark? The breed dates back to ancient Africa? Grandmaster Buddy Amato operates Amato's Karate and Weapons Academy, 589 Palmer Avenue, West Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom. For more information, call (732) 671-9555. Return to top More Columns Copyright Buddy Amato Amato's Goju-ryu Karate, Nunchaku, Bo-staff, Aikido, Sword, Kendo, Sais, Kick-boxing, Tai-Chi and more 589 Palmer Ave, Keansburg and is the author of Buddys Animal Kingdom, NJ 07734 (732) 671-9555