Read About Basenji Breeders

    - Facts

1.     Professional Affiliations:

The authenticated Basenji Breeder registers their dogs and litters with the AKC. The breeder must be a member of Basenji Club of America (BCOA), the breed standard club affiliated to AKC. The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) member breeders comply with CKC standards.

2.     ImageWhy Use a Breeder:

To promote good breeding standards, the breeders register their stock with a kennel club and follow the club program.

3.     How to Find:

Referrals for classified AKC/CKC registered breeders can be found from both the AKC and CKC respectively, from the breed parent club (of America (BCOA), or a local club.

4.     What to Expect:

These breeders will ask you many things to ensure you'll provide good care for the pup after the sale. The breeder must be well-informed about the latest breeding techniques, guidelines (genetic disease elimination) and breed standards, as well as provide advice for breed care.

5.     Breeder's Surroundings:

The breeder must be located in clean surroundings with exercising space and shelter, and keep the dogs in a clean and warm place.

Basenji Breeders - Newborn Facts

1.     Average Number of Newborns Delivered at Birth:

There should be no more than 2 puppies out of 3 seasons and a period of rest of 1 year between litters. The breeder must comply with the rule of 8 litters per 24 months.

2.     Age To Be Sold:

8-10 weeks.

3.     What to Look For in a Newborn:

Look for health certificates, a clean coat, eyes clear of discharge, clean ear and nose, pink gums and clean teeth. For Basenji's that are 3 years old or more, test for Fanconi Syndrome.

4.     Registry:

Check that the breeder has filed for AKC registration. The breeder must also transfer the CKC registration of the dog or puppy.

5.     AKC Recognized Characteristics:

Basenjis are small, short-haired hunting dogs. Their small back appears to be higher than longer. They have an average height of 17" for males and 16" for females. The average weight is 24 lbs. for males and 22 lbs. for females. Basenjis have a medium-width flat skull tapering towards the eyes. ImageThe muzzle is shorter than the skull and the foreface tapers from the eyes to the muzzle. They have a black nose and a well-curled tail. Their coat is short and fine in chestnut red, pure black, tricolor or brindle. The chest, feet and tail tip are white. It is an intelligent, independent and affectionate dog, but aloof to strangers.

6.     Expense to Purchase Newborn:

The average cost of a puppy ranges from $300 to $1,500, depending on the dog's lineage and registration.

7.     Dam and Sire Information of your Newborn:

The pedigree information of up to 3 generations must be available from the breeder. Check with the breeder to determine if both the sire and dam are certified with the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals); GDC (Institute for Genetic Disease Control in Animals); Penn HIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) and CERF (Canine Eye Registry Foundation).

Basenji Breeders - Breeder Concerns

1.     Breeder Reputation:

The breeder must register the litter at AKC, and must follow BCOA guidelines for breeding and should produce evidence of following and participating in the programs of these associations.

2.     Pet Health:

Breeders must ensure the breeding of healthy litters that are physically sound with good temperaments. Dogs must not be overly shy or aggressive. The breed specialist breeders are dedicated to breeding a healthy stock with the aim of eliminating any hereditary diseases and AKC disqualifications.

3.     Assurances:

The customers dealing with these breeders are assured of a healthy puppy with complete papers and a health guarantee.