BASENJI
Let’s Talk Breed Education!
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Official Standard for the Basenji General Appearance: The Basenji is a small, short haired hunting dog from Africa. It is short backed and lightly built, appearing high on the leg compared to its length. The wrinkled head is proudly carried on a well arched neck and the tail is set high and curled. Elegant and graceful, the whole demeanor is one of poise and inquiring alertness. The balanced structure and the smooth musculature enable it to move with ease and agility. The Basenji hunts by both sight and scent. Characteristics-The Basenji should not bark but is not mute. The wrinkled forehead, tightly curled tail and swift, effortless gait (resembling a racehorse trotting full out) are typical of the breed. Faults-Any departure from the following points must be considered a fault, and the seriousness with which the fault is regarded is to be in exact proportion to its degree. Size, Proportion, Substance: Ideal height for dogs is 17 inches and bitches 16 inches. Dogs 17 inches and bitches 16 inches from front of chest to point of buttocks. Approximate weight for dogs, 24 pounds and bitches, 22 pounds. Lightly built within this height to weight ratio. Head: The head is proudly carried. Eyes -Dark hazel to dark brown, almond shaped, obliquely set and farseeing. Rims dark. Ears -Small, erect and slightly hooded, of fine texture and set well forward on top of head. The skull is flat, well chiseled and of medium width, tapering toward the eyes. The foreface tapers from eye to muzzle with a perceptible stop. Muzzle shorter than skull, neither coarse nor snipy, but with rounded cushions. Wrinkles appear upon the forehead when ears are erect, and are fine and profuse. Side wrinkles are desirable, but should never be exaggerated into dewlap. Wrinkles are most noticeable in puppies, and because of lack of shadowing, less noticeable in blacks, tricolors and brindles. Nose-Black greatly desired. Teeth- Evenly aligned with a scissors bite . Neck, Topline, Body: Neck of good length, well crested and slightly full at base of throat. Well set into shoulders. Topline -Back level. Body -Balanced with a short back, short coupled and ending in a definite waist. Ribs moderately sprung, deep to elbows and oval. Slight forechest in front of point of shoulder. Chest of medium width. Tail is set high on topline, bends acutely forward and lies well curled over to either side. Forequarters: Shoulders moderately laid back. Shoulder blade and upper arm of approximately equal length. Elbows tucked firmly against brisket. Legs straight with clean fine bone, long forearm and well defined sinews. Pasterns of good length, strong and flexible. Feet-Small, oval and compact with thick pads and well arched toes. Dewclaws are usually removed. Hindquarters: Medium width, strong and muscular, hocks well let down and turned neither in nor out, with long second thighs and moderately bent stifles. Feet-Same as in "Forequarters." Coat and Color: Coat short and fine. Skin very pliant. Color-Chestnut red; pure black; tricolor (pure black and chestnut red); or brindle (black stripes on a background of chestnut red); all with white feet, chest and tail tip. White legs, blaze and collar optional. The amount of white should never predominate over primary color. Color and markings should be rich, clear and well- defined, with a distinct line of demarcation between the black and red of tricolors and the stripes of brindles. Gait: Swift, tireless trot. Stride is long, smooth, effortless and the topline remains level. Coming and going, the straight column of bones from shoulder joint to foot and from hip joint to pad remains unbroken, converging toward the centerline under the body. The faster the trot, the greater the convergence.
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Temperament: An intelligent, independent, but affectionate and alert breed. Can be aloof with strangers.
Approved May 8, 1990 Effective June 28, 1990
JUDGING THE BASENJI
By Marianne Klinkowski Judges Education Coordinator, Basenji Club of America
T
he Basenji is one of only a few breeds on earth in which healthy populations of indig- enous native stock can be accessed and bred
A typical hunt takes place in the dense jungle where long nets are stretched out by experienced hunters who wait with sharpened spears for approaching game flushed by the pursuing dogs. Basenjis do not hunt in organized packs but are more like independent contractors who move at breakneck speed through virtually impenetrable brush, wearing hand- fash- ioned hunting bells around their necks so the hunters can track the individual dogs at all times. Th eir working gait is a series of lightning fast leaps and bounds through tangled undergrowth and the dogs must be small and agile enough to traverse the jungle yet strong enough to push through nearly impassable thickets when necessary, while not getting hung up in the dense cover. When you judge the Basenji, you will be looking for a dog which is not only capable of performing his ancestral duties but of surviving the experience as well. Th e Basenji standard was well-written to describe such a dog, a natural hunter. When a class enters your ring, your first impression should be that of square, fine-boned, leggy dogs with the grace
into AKC domestic populations. Th e American Kennel Club has allowed us to re-open our stud book on a temporary basis and incorporate carefully selected and rigorously evaluated native African Basenjis into our breeding programs. Several expeditions composed of intrepid Basenji fanciers have already made the long trek to central Africa to bring back native Basenjis and more deep-jungle safaris are currently planned. Th is is an exciting time for Basenji enthusiasts and judges alike who are intrigued by these enchanting African imps. Th is is an ancient breed, long prized as silent hunters by tribesmen in remote areas of central Africa. Th e hunting dogs lived in the villages with the families, played with the children and slept in the huts at night. Living in isolation, the dogs would be protective of the villagers and naturally aloof with strangers.
of gazelles. Th e clumsy, cloddy Basenji should not make it past your first cut. Toplines should be level, necks should be well-arched, curly tails should be high-set, angulation should be moderate and bal- anced and front fill is a necessity. Movement is light and e ff ortless and should put you in mind of a highly-bred Th oroughbred horse joyfully skimming the earth while out for an afternoon jaunt.
“When you judge the Basenji, you will be looking for a dog WHICH IS NOT ONLY CAPABLE OF PERFORMING HIS ANCESTRAL DUTIES BUT OF SURVIVING THE EXPERIENCE AS WELL.”
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“THE BREED MAY BE KNOWN FOR ITS WRINKLES AND CURLY TAILS, but there is a lot more to a Basenji than the emphasis on these two features alone would indicate.”
Th ese dogs can go all day and come back for more; ine ffi cient movement is wasteful and dangerous for a dog whose life may depend on his ability to avoid a deadly predator at a moment’s notice. Th e breed may be known for its wrinkles and curly tails, but there is a lot more to a Basenji than the emphasis on these two features alone would indi- cate. Th e wrinkles on the head serve as a hallmark that the skin on the body is su ffi ciently fine and loose, a require- ment for a dog that needs to make its way unimpeded and unharmed at speed through coiled vines and thorny shrub- bery. And that curly tail must be set high for the dog’s rear construction to be correct; even though we love our triple- curled donut tails, we would much rather see a high-set single curl than a low set, multiple-curled tail. Heads are distinctive and do not look like any other breed. Ears are set high on the head and carried erect when the dog is alert. Th ey can be carried back when the dog is relaxed, expressing a ff ection or dozing. Eyes are dark, almond-shaped, obliquely set and surmounted by a dis- tinct brow; they do not stare forward
with a piercing gaze. Th e skin is fine and loose enough to form wrinkles on the forehead when the ears are up but not so loose that it hangs in folds as dewlap. Side wrinkles are desirable but, sadly, in short supply these days. Th e muzzle is very definitely shorter than the skull and a very untypical look is created when these proportions are equal or even, heaven forbid, reversed. Basenjis come in a variety of wonderful colors which include a rich chestnut red, pure black, tricolor, and brindle; a brin- dle-pointed tricolor will have black stripes in the areas of red and this coloration is not to be faulted. All colors are smartly accented by a white chest, four white feet and a white tip on the tail. Additional white in the form of facial blazes, stock- ings and full or partial collars may be attractive but are not required. Full white collars may further the illusion of a longer neck on dogs so marked and are some- times favored by exhibitors. Th e Basenji ring is a pretty cheerful place to be as we encourage judges to greet both our dogs and our exhibitors with a friendly smile. Th ey should return the favor.
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But there are two things we ask of every judge. Do not even think about uncurling the tail as this may startle the dog and can even be painful for some individuals. And please, when you’re in the ring judging, don’t ever try to sneak up on a Basenji. A stealthy approach may well find them examining your credentials and you will be found lacking. There are some very useful breed-spe- cific examination techniques which can be employed to make your judging expe- rience more pleasant and much more fruitful overall. View the dog on the table briefly from the side to get an idea of general appearance and proportion (think “square”) and then approach the dog from the front and extend your hand smoothly and with confidence. Eye con- tact is good, as long as it is accompanied by a smile. Helpful hint: our dogs are extremely food-oriented and our exhibi- tors carry lots of bait. They will not mind at all if you should ask to borrow a
piece of liver to entice a restless or reluc- tant exhibit into a happier state of mind. Check bite, eye shape and placement, do a quick once over to check musculature and skin and coat quality, and check tes- ticles as appropriate. That’s all, no need to run elaborate measuring routines or poke and prod this smooth-coated dog excessively. As always, examine on the table but judge on the ground. Ear set, wrinkle and expression are much better observed on the ground and the exhibi- tor is more than ready to show them to you at the end of the down and back. Tail set and curl are usually better on the move and the topline is more natu- ral as the exhibitor is not able to poke the tummy or stretch the rear legs back to disguise failings in that area. Do not let the exhibitors race around the ring; a properly constructed Basenji looks just fine at a moderate pace. Lastly and most unfortunately, Basenji males are notorious for retracting their
testes in cold weather. If this happens, complete your examination, have the exhibitor take the dog o ff the table, gait him normally and then put him back on the table for a re-check. Th is may help but if two normal testicles still cannot be located, you have no choice but to dis- qualify. As Basenjis are quite often sched- uled to be shown at the crack of dawn with cold, wet dew still on the grass, be aware that this is a possibility. Th e Basenji Club of America has devoted considerable time and expertise to educational e ff orts on our website. Please visit us at http://www.basenji.org for lists of helpful mentors and volumes of historical and current information about this delightful breed. Our rotating National Specialty will be held this year at Argus Ranch in Auburn, WA from July 12-17. Please join us there for a Basenji Extravaganza! You may contact me at naharin@comcast.net with any questions and for further information.
“HELPFUL HINT: OUR DOGS ARE EXTREMELY FOOD-ORIENTED and our exhibitors carry lots of bait.”
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PROPORTIONALLY SPEAKING THE SQUARE, AGILE AFRICAN BASENJI
BY SANDRA L. BRIDGES
H aving found myself, accidentally, the President of the Basenji Club of America back in 1989, I was dropped into the middle of a controversy about the revision of our Standard. I did my best to resolve that contretemps by breaking the Standard down into small, specific phrases, then putting the entire thing out to the General Membership to be voted on individually. Any phrase passing was sent on, any that did not pass was revised, incorporating the input of the membership and re-voted on—and revised—until it did pass. This was quite an arduous undertak- ing, but the final version passed the vote of the General Membership with 97 percent voting in agreement. I hope that I (and, by extension, the other members who also should have noticed) can be forgiven, then, for not realizing that we had omit- ted the word “square” from the paragraph on proportions. We naively assumed that by specifying 17" x 17" for a dog and 16" x 16" for a bitch, judges would understand that the square proportion was a given.
In the intervening thirty years, I have watched, unhappily, as my small, square, agile jungle dog has morphed into a long-bodied, rect- angular, over-angulated Generic American Show Dog that flies around the ring on a tight lead in front of their handlers. This is not typical of the correct Basenji nor is it in keeping with its Standard and its original native function. The 1954 (the second) approved Basenji Standard specified that the Basenji was “short-backed” (General Appearance), short-bodied or “body should be short” (Body), and “short-coupled” (Body). When we reformatted it in 1990 at AKC’s request, we allowed for the short back and the short coupling, but it was apparently decided to omit entirely that the body itself should be short. The word “balanced” was substitut- ed, instead, in the paragraph on the Body, and the phrase “short body” was not included anywhere else. This eventually allowed, unknowingly, for a change in construction. As newer breeders assume that the 1990 is the “better” version of the Standard, they discard the knowledge to be gained from the two previous versions. Now, rather than our dogs being “square appearing high on leg,” we have many that are often only square by virtue of being as tall as they are long.
Whelped 1954, English Import, American Champion
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PROPORTIONALLY SPEAKING
In a sincere attempt to “fix” the ancient Basenji, many who are new (not just to Basenjis, but to dogs in general) have chosen to change the construction to match the generic dog depicted in so many generalized studies on “the movement of the dog.” Sadly, in so doing, they have lost the essence of the original Basenji. The 1942 Standard, the only approved version written with some input from those breed founders who had seen Basenjis in the jungles of the Congo back in the 1920s and ‘30s, reads: “The general appearance is one of springy poise and alertness, greatly resembling an antelope.” I think the desire was for the Basenji to stand “up on his legs.” (See antelope below.)
Whelped 2017, American Champion
The Basenji was known a hundred years ago as, “M’Bwa M’Kube M’Bwawamwitu” or the “Jumping Up and Down Dog.” This was because their square, agile, moderately angulated construction allowed them to jump straight up in the deep grass and “hover” to sight the game. They could also jump straight up in the air and turn, to run in the reverse direction should this be necessary to make an escape! Agil- ity (due to the breed’s balanced, square, short-bodied, short-backed and short-coupled construction) is far more typical of the correct Basenji than is the rectangular dog, strung up and being raced around the ring. The Basenji should always be moved on a loose lead and judged as they come to a natural stop. There should be that air of poise and quiz- zical alertness as they check out their surroundings. The rear should be in balance with the front, just enough under the dog to enable an agile escape. Olivia Burn writes in one of her columns about seeing the dogs work in the 1920s, and that there were “coy” (cross-breeds) among them as far back as then. Yes, there have been those intrepid travelers trekking into Africa in search of new stock. It is the rare new import—sixty to a hundred years later—that is truly of a Basenji type as the English were attempting to establish the breed in the ‘30s. However, the Basenji is so prepotent that it has not been difficult to incorporate for health and retain correct type. It is not known by many, but the 1942 Standard was not actually the first. There was a Standard written up by the original members of the Basenji Club of Great Britain in 1939, when they all first got together to establish the Basenji Club of Great Britain. Because of World War II, it was never submitted to the Kennel Club for approval. After the war, the early founders of the breed were scattered and no longer actu- ally working with the club. The major influence on the 1942 Stan- dard was Veronica Tudor-Williams, who had been mentored by those early founders.
Whelped 1983, American Champion, National Specialty WB, BOS, 2 JOAM & BBHR
African Import, Registered as Foundation Stock, 2009
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PROPORTIONALLY SPEAKING
For me, but I can never forget Olivia Burn’s vivid description written in May 1939: “...They have to hunt through long grass, for- est, undergrowth and often sand, so a short, strong back with good propelling power of quarters is important for the work required of them. What is required is a reachy-necked, short-backed, tireless, active little dog, really agile, alert, springy and quick, with a deep brisket. I have seen numbers of them at work dur- ing the past ten years and the best and most useful specimens all have the conformation described.” I have never heard or read a more accurate description of the ideal Basenji; really bringing these little native dogs alive in your mind as they dart through the deep grass, jumping straight up to sight their quarry, then dropping down to drive it into the nets of their native Pygmy owners! To reiterate, the proportions of the African Basenji should be truly square. Whether standing on a loose lead, standing up on his own feet in a line-up or as approached on an examination table, he should present an easily discerned, squarely con- structed dog. His movement, while swift and tire- less, is still a smoothly balanced, easy, and swinging stride. Moving or standing, the Basenji is the pic- ture of “springy poise and alertness!” Why all the yellow squares, you ask? Well, when judging the Basenji, if you cannot visualize a square as I have positioned it, the dog’s proportions are not cor- rect. Thus, the entire construction is incorrect. Just my humble opinion. –SLB The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, incorporating her forty-six years of extensive study and experience, and do not necessarily represent those of the Basenji Club of America, Inc., its Officers, Board or Membership. —SLB
Whelped 2016, Australian BIS Supreme Champion
Whelped 2018, AKC Major-Pointed (Dark Moon’s Supernatural)
These dogs show the level toplined, swift, balanced, and swinging stride of the square, agile Basenji.
So, that first appproved Basenji Standard was already once removed from the breed founders. In my study, I have found that every time the Standard under- went a revision, words—and even whole phrases—were omitted and much extra verbiage was added. The 1939 General Appearance paragraph read: “Smart and alert, with poise and stance rather resembling an antelope, and gait very like that of a thoroughbred horse.” Succinct, but this hits all the necessary points. Although the subsequent Standards used more words, I don’t think they were actually more descriptive.
She has judged Basenji Specialties and supported entries across the US and in Australia and Finland, including the still-record entry of 467 at the 1997 Basenji Club of America National Specialty. She felt honored to judge her second Specialty in Australia, fifteen years after the first; 2003 and 2018. She served the Basenji Club of America, first as Ad Manager for five years, then as Editor of its quarterly Bulletin for over ten years. She was, concurrently, President for two terms, Secretary for one, and a member of the Board for another six between 1987 and 1995. Mrs. Bridges was a member of the Basenji Club of America’s JEC in the ‘90s, creating and presenting the “Interactive Critique” at many National Specialty Judges’ Seminars. She also compiled and authored much of the JEC’s educational material at that time. Following a “break” during her husband’s illness, she is again a member of the BCOA’s Judges’ Education Committee. Her artwork has been presented at past Specialties and National Specialties. She is currently working on a book about the original Basenji from the heart of the rain forest, and the need for breeders and judges to re-focus on that small, short- backed, balanced, and agile jungle dog.
Sandy Bridges Meeting Dingos at the Zoo in Australia, 2018
ABOUT THE AUTHOR As JATO Basenjis since 1974, producing one litter per year until 1998, Mrs. Bridges has owned, bred and/or co-bred over fifty Champion Basenjis, most owner- and/or breeder-handled to their titles. These include six Top Producers, seven Specialty Winners, three National Specialty Winners (from her “last” Basenji litter, WB-BW at the 1999 BCOA National under Australian breeder-judge Lauris Hunt) and a Top Ten Group Winner. Her husband’s 12-year illness, resulting in his death in 2004, curtailed her dog activities for a time. She dove back in to judging and went ahead to attain AKC approval to judge fifteen Hounds and one Toy as well as all-breed Juniors.
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THE BASENJI ACCEPTED COLOR AND MARKINGS BY MARIANNE KLINKOWSKI T he Basenji is an aboriginal Afri- can hunting dog that has lived in close association with man in the rainforests of Central Africa SOME HISTORY
for thousands of years. Early English and European explor- ers described small tan, fawn or red and white or black and white, barkless, prick-eared, curly-tailed hunting dogs owned by native tribesmen in various parts of Central Afri- ca. Later travelers brought back red and white, black, and black, tan and white dogs that fit this description. Sadly, many of the early imports died of distemper, including the pair that was exhibited as African Bush Dogs at Crufts in 1895. (The native dogs had no natural immunity to this dreaded disease and, when an experimental distemper vaccine was finally developed, later imports continued to perish from its aftereffects.) These dogs enchanted fanci- ers and came to be known as Basenjis, which, we are told, translates as “bush thing” or “wild thing.” When breed standards were written, they included the red and white, black and white, and black, tan and white (or tricolor) color patterns.
Tricolor
Brindle
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Marianne Klinkowski received her first Basenji as a gift from her father in 1962, and joined the Basenji Club of America somewhere around 1965. She currently serves the BCOA as Judges Education Chair.
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THE BASENJI: ACCEPTED COLOR AND MARKINGS
Red and White
Black and White
Open Faced Tri
Later importations included pure black and white Basenjis from Liberia and tiger-striped brindle Basenjis from the Sudan and the Congo, and these dogs have been incorporated into the breed’s modern gene pool. At one point, a recessive form of the black, tan and white color pattern was noted among the offspring of one of the most highly influential imports; these puppies were born pure black, but later developed mottled tan markings. Basenji fanciers were divided in their acceptance of the two (dominant and recessive) black colors and they argued heatedly as to which one was correct. The controversy ended in the 1970s with a Basenji Club of America ballot that spelled out in detail where the tan markings of a black, tan and white Basenji would be placed, thereby eliminating the recessive black Basenjis from competition. The ballot went down in defeat as the majority of BCOA members felt that the breeders and owners of this primitive hunting dog were in the best position to assess and evaluate their own breeding stock, placing an emphasis on temperament, structure, and breed type— and leaving room for color variations as seen in the native dogs. This is still the feeling of most breeders and we can generally “give” a little in the color department on an otherwise excellent dog. The Basenji
Brindle Pointed Tri
standard has no disqualifications for color, and we like it that way. COLOR AND MARKINGS IN THE MODERN SHOW RING
Brindle-Pointed Tri
That being said, the AKC Basenji Standard is very clear that the desired colors are: “Chestnut red; pure black; tricolor (pure black and chestnut red); or brindle (black stripes on a background of chestnut red); all with white feet, chest and tail tip. White legs, blaze and collar optional. The amount of white should never predominate over primary color. Color and markings should be rich, clear and well-defined, with a distinct line of demarcation between the black and red of tricolors and the stripes of brindles.” The chestnut red color most closely resembles the color of a chestnut horse and not the fruit of the chestnut tree, which would be closer to a dark mahogany. We love the vibrant orangey reds when we see them, which is not as often as we would like. We have a lot of paper bag reds, and tolerate them, but our goal is always a bright, shiny red. Pure black is a glossy black with no tan hairs; there may be some grey undercoat at times or scat- tered white hairs, but these are normal. There is a seal variant, which is visible in some light; this color is not often seen and its genetics are unknown to this writer.
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THE BASENJI: ACCEPTED COLOR AND MARKINGS
Recessive Black
Reverse Brindle
The tricolor (pure black and chestnut red) is open to more variation and we do see several different color patterns that fit this description. The normal tricolor is included here, as is the open faced tricolor, the saddle, and the recessive black. We should always bear in mind the standard’s stipulation that color and markings should be rich, clear, and well-defined, but we are really looking for the best over- all dog—no matter its color. Again, as in the black and white, a grey undercoat may sometimes be present, usually around the neck. The brindle (black stripes on a background of chestnut red) color pattern is also subject to a number of variations, as we do not specify the number or arrange- ment of stripes. We can see very plainly marked brindles with only a few stripes as well as dogs so heavily marked that the red background is barely visible. Again, the dog under the stripes is the most important factor in the greater scheme of things. Additionally, when the brindle color pattern was added to our standard after the arrival of some influential native African imports, we did not think to address the ramifications of superimposing this pattern on our tricolor dogs in our breeding programs. As it happens, the brindle stripes transfer neatly to the red portions of the coat to form a “brindle-pointed tri” or “trindle.” This color pattern is the natural result of breeding two approved colors together and is completely acceptable in the ring. White feet, chests, and tail tips are ubiquitous, and almost always acceptable. If necessary, even a foot with one white toe will pass muster. White legs, blaze, and collar are optional, but are frequently seen. There is no preference for a full white collar, but it is often seen on our top winners as it is flashy and catches the eye of the judges. In some cases, it also gives the illusion of a longer neck, so it may be helpful in the ring. Our standard does have a warning that the amount of white should never pre- dominate over the primary color. There is a very good reason for this and it goes back to our gene pool. “Congo,” the mostly white bitch pictured below, came to this country in the 1940s as a stowaway on a tramp steamer from West Africa. She is a part of our foundation stock. Whether from her influence or from that of later imports, the gene for excess white is there and we studiously breed away from it. I would be happy to answer any questions about this aspect of our breed or any others, for that matter. I may be reached at naharin@comcast.net.
WE SHOULD ALWAYS BEAR IN MIND THE STANDARD’S STIPULATION THAT COLOR AND MARKINGS SHOULD BE RICH, CLEAR, AND WELL-DEFINED, BUT WE ARE REALLY LOOKING FOR THE BEST OVERALL DOG—NO MATTER ITS COLOR.
Saddle
Congo
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BASENJI THE SQUARE
BY PENELOPE C. INAN
B asenjis are my first breed and, as a breeder-judge, I thought I might discuss my pet peeves… one, at least. Basenjis are a square breed (not that the stan- dard describes it that way). So, I went looking at other Hound breed standards that give the same proportion—and this is what I found: Afghan Hound – The height at the shoulders equals the distance from the chest to the buttocks. Basenji – Ideal height for dogs is 17 inches and bitches 16 inch- es. Dogs 17 inches and bitches 16 inches from front of chest to point of buttocks. Cirneco Dell’Etna – Length from point of shoulder to point of buttock equal to height at withers. Norwegian Elkhound – Distance from forechest to rump equals the height at the withers. Redbone Coonhound – Should be equal in height from highest point of the shoulder blade to the ground as long measured from ster- num to the buttocks. Now, as a relative old-timer, I think of “Basenji square” as being much like “Norwegian Elkhound” square. Thus, I like a compact little dog, giving the appearance of being high on leg without actu- ally being so. However, if I twist my aging brain and consider the possibility of “Basenji square” being perfectly acceptable in the realm of “Afghan Hound square,” it does allow for a leggier dog and a more sweeping movement. Although I think of Basenjis as being carried around the necks of Pygmies (indicating the smaller, more compact dog as the “original”), my investigative search turns up imports deemed appropriate to those early pioneer breeders in England as ranging from 14 inches to 17 inches. The importance of those sizes is the inevitability of size increase in successive genera- tions due to the influence of better feeding practices, etc. In any case, I have determined, for myself, that I will always prefer the square Basenji—allowing for “Norwegian Elkhound square” AND “Afghan Hound square!”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mrs. Penelope C. Inan
I am the Judge’s Education Coordinator for the American Chinese Crested Club, the first AKC Xoloitzcuintli breeder-judge, and I serve on the Judge’s Education Committee for the Basenji Club of America and the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America. (I am a Parent Club Approved Mentor for all three breeds.) I am a member of the Santa Clara Valley Kennel Club, the Chinese Crested Club of Greater Los Angeles, the Gold Coast Xoloitzcuintli Club of Southern California, the American Chinese Crested Club, the Basenji Club of America, and the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America. I am currently Secretary of the Angeles Canyon Dog Club and the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America. Penelope (Penny) Inan, AKC #25622
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BASENJI THE
1. Where do you live? What do you do “outside” of dogs? 2. How many years in Basenjis? Showing? Judging? Breeding? 3. What, in your opinion, is the secret to a successful breeding program? 4. Advice to a new Basenji judge? 5. Known as the barkless dog, the Basenji has extremely loyal owners. What is it about the breed that makes them irreplace- able in your life? 6. “Wash and Wear” dogs appear to need little grooming for the show ring. But is that true? How much time do you spend per week preparing these coatless beauties for exhibition? 7. What is the breed’s most endearing quality? 8. Is the breed’s temperament ideal for indoor life or is the breed mostly an outdoors dog? 9. How do you place your puppies? 10. At what age do you choose a show prospect? 11. What is your favorite dog show memory? 12. Is there anything else you’d like to share about the breed? Please elaborate. DAMARA BOLTE
I’ve had Basenjis for 65 years. Upon graduation I discovered the job world was not clamoring for a female animal husbandry gradu- ate! I did find a job with Bettina Belmont Ward as she envisioned a small kennel in Middleburg, Virginia. She introduced me to Basenjis and she gave me my foundation bitch, CH Bettina’s Fedha aka “Chipmunk”. She finished her championship at the Garden in 1947. She was bred to the sire of my choice, Black Clarion of the Congo. So 65 years later I am once again excited about the prospect of another litter. Actually by comparison to some breeders, I have limited numbers. Bettina Ward had exhibited Pekingese for many years so exhib- iting her Basenjis was part of my Kennel Manager job. I was hooked on the breed so that 60 years later I’m still hooked. It was a learning experience and actually still is! Any successful breeder needs to be objective, open minded, cau- tious to know one’s limits, careful especially with health matters and must be dedicated to the successes and sorrows involved. My advice to a new Basenji judge, look at as many Basenjis as you can. Talk to all the knowledgeable breeders you can. Become familiar with the Standard and develop a mental picture of your ideal. Understand their purpose and bear in mind the movement and condition of this athlete. What is it about the breed that makes them irreplaceable in your life? They are charming and unique critters. Generally quiet, clean of body and limb and a pleasure to look at. How much time do I spend per week preparing for exhibition? The care and training of a “Wash and Wear” Basenji still takes time and effort! You must keep dog(s) in optimum condition at all times. They need regular and consistent supervised/quality exercise, con- sistent care, high quality food and lots of TLC with a great/exten- sive sense of humor! The actual coat requires very little ie. cleanli- ness, some brushing, quality food and no fleas/ticks. What is the breed’s most endearing quality? They are interest- ing, cute, playful, convenient size, shape to please. Definitely not a ho-hum breed! Is a Basenji’s temperament ideal for indoor life or is he mostly an outdoors dog? Indoors to be supervised and socialized. Must have adequate exercise. Basenjis must be tired when left alone so your house remains intact! They love to be warm and cozy. They can enjoy a place to run free in cold weather and then come inside to curl up next to the wood stove. How do I place my puppies? Carefully! The main reason we breed a litter so seldom is that many folks don’t need a Basenji. You must be willing to put the time an effort into making yours and the Basenji’s experience a successful one! If it works for all then you most likely will always have a Basenji in your life! At what age do I choose a show prospect? We usually evaluate our litters at eight to ten weeks. We have had many weeks to observe and evaluate. We like to have at least two sets of shots done before the pups leave Reveille for new homes. Then hope and pray every- thing holds together. My favorite dog show memory? Winning the Hound Group at Westminster in 1972 with CH Reveille Re-Up. My mother said I had been a “BEAR” for weeks before the 1972 WKC show. No mat- ter what the outcome I had decided that it was to be Uppity’s last show. Naturally I hoped it would be a good one! Expect to spend a lot of time and care in order for your Basenji to fulfill its potential. Definitely they are an interesting breed with many unique antics. Somewhat of a challenge, but well worth
I have been immersed in Basenjis since 1955 when I worked for Bet- tina Belmont Ward and was given Bettina’s Fedha who became the Foundation of Reveille Basenjis. The emphasis has always been on quality not quantity with a litter bred maybe once a year or two or three. I have handled a good many Basenjis over the years including nine Best In Show
winners. I was a BCOA Board member and wrote the breed column of the AKC Gazette for over three decades. My avocation has been professional handling, my career was as an Animal Husbandman for the National Institutes of Health. I studied animal sculpture in Paris and have pursued this consuming interest in free moments. I accompanied Jon Curby and Stan Carter on the ‘88 Basenji search in Zaire. Hopefully with honesty, objectivity, perseverance, dedi- cation and teamwork, fanciers; with the aid of research and tech- nology, will realize definitive tests and thereby solutions to Basenji health problems, fortunately much has been accomplished in this field. The Basenji Club of America is a cohesive and driving force in preserving the Basenji! I live in the country seven miles north of Leesburg, Virginia. My property is a 24 acre wooded lot with a house and kennel. I have a small kennel for when I was handling and now for my retirees and including two intact bitches. The dogs have always been a primary consideration as my Purdue degree was in animal husbandry and my profession was managing closed colonies of laboratory animals (mice, rats, etc.) at NIH. Over the years I have done some limited traveling and also have an interest in art sculpture. I studied sculpture one winter in Paris and continued this interest on a moderate scale upon my return home and enjoyed the time spent that gave me a sense of satisfac- tion. I have done many limited edition bronzes and commissioned works for personal art collections and Memorial trophies.
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Basenji Q & A the effort put into raising, training, socializing and conditioning him/her. SUSAN COE We started in Basenjis in 1970
I think our breed has remained fairly true of its African roots and it would be good to see this continue with moderately-built dogs with strong, bold personalities. JULIE DUGAN I enjoy participating in the sport
while we lived in Calgary, Canada. As well we’ve lived with our dogs in Washington state, Pennsylvania and now Australia. I was quite active in the Basenji Club of America serving on the Board of Directors for many years. I also published/edited and everything else, Th e Basenji maga- zine for about 25 years. In 1975 Jon and I self-published a fun book about
of judging the Conformation of dogs. The Basenji is my current breed, they are the all-around hound and they keep me entertained daily. The Irish Setter and Siberian Husky were my past charmers. Their elegance and joyful endurance remain in my rec- ollections. Junior Showmanship has been a part of my life as my daughter flourished within it and aged out.
Basenjis entitled Curly Tales and Other Basenji Nonsense . I wrote a general book about the breed which was first published in 1990 entitled Th e Basenji, Out of Africa to You . Since moving to Austra- lia, I have shown less but continue with the BCOA keeping the Club’s website and The Basenji University. Here in Victoria I serve on the Committee for the Basenji Club of Victoria and prepare the Club’s bi-monthly newsletter. Over the years I have been involved with over 250 AKC champion Basenjis and now have my first Australian champion. What hobbies do I enjoy outside of dogs? Gardening is my favorite pastime. I also have a strong interest in the conservation of natural ecosystems. We started in Basenjis 49 years ago. I showed a great deal and bred only Basenjis. I breed now only as a co-breeder. We have one Basenji and one Saluki that are our pets and get to go to some shows. The secret to a successful breeding program is being impartial enough to evaluate your own as well as others’ dogs. Also, one must take the time to train yourself improving your ability to visualize what the standard is requiring. My advice to a new Basenji judge: learn all the parts but judge the whole dog. What is it about the breed that makes them irreplaceable in my life? They are full of themselves with a great attitude for life. How much time do I spend per week preparing for exhibition? During shedding season in the spring, they need to be brushed or massaged to encourage shedding. For a show they get a bath. If they get dirty feet before judging, they will need a foot/leg bath. Many need their tails tidied up with scissors. The breed’s most endearing quality is their intelligence makes them naughty and fun. Is their temperament ideal for indoor life or are they mostly an outdoors dog? Indoor dog and mostly in one’s lap. How do I place my puppies? Contacts are now mostly made via the internet. At what age do I choose a show prospect? At seven to nine weeks. My favorite dog show memory? This is the hardest question as there are many. Mostly they involves successes with training if it is only finally getting a new dog to trot on a leash or sharing the show life with a top winning individual dog. In either case one gets very close to the dog and that makes it special.
My club affiliations are the Wilmington Kennel Club, Basen- ji Club of America, Mid Atlantic Basenji Club and Mid Atlantic Stewards Association. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Ele- mentary Education from Temple University. I live in Delaware and I enjoy running my dogs daily. I am an AKC Judge and am always working on new breeds. I have loved the Basenji for 16 years of which we have shown all our dogs to Championship and beyond and I have reached top 25 with five dogs/bitches. The secret to a successful breeding program? Look at the dog, not just the pedigree. My advice to a new Basenji judge: never approach a Basenji from the rear and don’t linger in your examination. What is it about the breed that makes them irreplaceable in my life? They keep me laughing! How much time do I spend per week preparing for exhibition? The coats are easy but the perfect tail grooming can take an hour. What is the breed’s most endearing quality? My dog, Simon, gives the best hugs. Is the breed’s temperament ideal for indoor life or are they most- ly an outdoors breed? Indoors, they are extremely quiet. How do I place my puppies? Most puppy people find me via Basenji Club Of America breeder directory. At what age do I choose a show prospect? By eight weeks, I know the one. My favorite dog show memory is the 2005 BCOA National in Rhode Island, The Ritz. The Basenji is the all around hound and can fit into most fam- ily lives. The Basenjis are very musical as they are known as “The Singing Dog”. PENELOPE INAN I became interested in dog shows as a child, and attended my first show in the late 1950s—an outdoor benched show—with an aunt who raised Pomeranians. In 1973, following a divorce, I moved in with my sister (Sandra Bridges) and her family in Northern Cali- fornia—bringing with me my companion Basenji and a show bitch I had been given by his breeder. As I wasn’t interested in handling, Sandy was drafted. I bred my first litter in 1974, but we lost all but
“My advice to a new Basenji judge: learn all the parts but judge the whole dog.”
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Basenji Q & A two puppies. Sandy and I co-bred for the next few years—taking JATO as a kennel name in honor of our late aunt. In 1977, I married and moved to Hayward, but continued show- ing and breeding. I put a CD on my companion dog—he was High Scoring Basenji at the 1976 BCOA Western Specialty. Later in the 1980s, I put an ASFA field championship on my black and white Australian Ch. Balshah Allakazam. I was the original editor for the BCOA Bulletin Board, and am a past President of the Basenji Club of Northern California. In 1992, my late husband and I moved to Turkey (his native country) when he retired. He died in 1996, and my son and I moved back in with my sister and her husband. She and I co-bred our last Basenji litter in 1998, from which came Ch. Jato Jenrl’y Speaking (a National Specialty BOW under Lauris Hunt from Australia, and a group-placing bitch) and Ch. Jato Jenr’l Principles (the youngest group placing Basenji at that time). In 1998 we began breeding and showing Chinese Cresteds. I became Judges’ Education Coordinator for the American Chinese Crested Club in 2007 and during the eight years of my tenure we updated the Illustrated Guide originally created by AKC in 1991, and created the PowerPoint Presentation, both still in use today. We discovered the Xoloitzcuintli in 2010, when we acquired a co-ownership of a Miniature Coated girl. She became GCH Azu- wyn’s Ain’t Miss B Havin—the first Coated Champion anywhere in the world in any internationally recognized registry, and her photo is in the new AKC book. She is also the dam of two Coated Cham- pion daughters, who look much like their mother. I am a member of the Santa Clara Valley Kennel Club, the Chi- nese Crested Club of Greater Los Angeles, the Gold Coast Xoloitz- cuintli Club of Southern California, as well as a member of the Judges’ Education Committee for the American Chinese Crested Club, the Basenji Club of America and the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America. I am currently Secretary of the Angeles Canyon Dog Club and the Xoloitzcuintli Club of America. I began judging Basenjis in 2002 and am now approved for Cav- alier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Chinese Cresteds, Eng- lish Toy Spaniels, Italian Greyhounds, Japanese Chins, Papillons, Pekingese, Pugs, Pomeranians and Xoloitzcuintli; I am Permit for Anatolian Shepherds, Finnish Spitz, Norwegian Elkhounds, Shiba Inu and Whippets. I am continuing to study and expect to apply for more Hounds, Toys, and Non-Sporting breeds in the near future. I’m in Palmdale, north of Los Angeles. I’m an old-fashioned retired housewife (lost my husband in 1996) and mostly judge, occasion- ally show, and rarely breed. I got my first show Basenji in 1974, and co-bred my last litter in 1998. The secret to a successful breeding program is learning pedi- grees and breeding for correct type. All dogs have faults—breed for virtues while trying to not incorporate faults you don’t have. My advice to a new Basenji judge: remember this is a primi- tive breed—be respectful and please don’t uncurl the tail. The main breed characteristics are square, curly tail, small ears and wrinkled forehead. What is it about the breed that makes them irreplaceable in your life? My allergies prevent me from living with them now but they are endlessly entertaining, challenging and so beautiful. How much time do I spend per week preparing for exhibition? Cleanliness applies to all breeds—nail care, teeth care and currying to remove dead hair are essential. What is the breed’s most endearing quality? Their creativity and clown-like antics. Is the breed’s temperament ideal for indoor life or are they most- ly an outdoors breed? They are good indoor dogs but need exercise and challenging activities. How do I place my puppies? We have always concentrated on pet homes, and for show prospects—either we kept or found those pet homes that allowed us to show.
At what age do I choose a show prospect? Eight weeks, with the lines we had, gave us a good idea of what the adult would be. My favorite dog show memory? Getting the third leg on my first Basenji’s CD—boy, was I glad that was done! In the show ring, too often the typey, little square dog with level topline and balanced movement loses to the flashy, sweeping mover. Remember, these are jungle dogs—not plains dogs. They were car- ried to the hunt around the necks of pygmies—imagine the dogs you see in the ring in that position. Will they be small and compact enough for that? CAROLE KIRK I currently live in Kentucky. I am retired now, but worked for various branches of the US Federal Government for 27 years. Now that I’m retired I can devote all my time to all things dog. I got my first Basenji in 1990 to show and have something to do. So almost 30 years in the breed. I primarily show in conformation but have also participated in lure coursing and I bred/co-own a dog who has several agility titles thanks to his co-owner. I’ve judged a couple of sweepstakes for specialties/supported entries and have considered going for my judging license for Basenjis. I occasionally breed a litter and am currently showing a young dog who goes back to my foundation bitch. The secret to a successful breeding program? Having a vision of what you want to accomplish and working towards that. How to get there can and will change over the years, but you keep working towards your vision. And that requires patience as well. Genetics at times can be a crap shoot as we well know. Sometimes breedings that look good on paper just don’t turn out like we thought they would. Our breed normally only comes into season one time per year so that can and does limit the number of litters that can be produced. From my first litter to now I have also worked to incor- porate the newer African lines into my lines. Doing so does require time and patience to reach your vision as these breedings are usually out crosses. And if you are someone like myself who only breeds occasionally and for themselves, some times getting to where you envisioned can take some time. My advice to a new Basenji judge? Do not uncurl a Basenji tail! Under no circumstances should this be done and there is no reason to as there is nothing in our breed standard which addresses the curl, only the set of the tail. Some tails are extremely tightly curled and attempts to uncurl them could be quite painful and could cause the dog to act out, let alone any physical damage that could result from the attempt. Please keep a copy of our breed standard handy with you in the ring and consult it if you have questions. I greatly appreciate judges who I’ve shown under doing just that. Also ask if you have questions, breed mentors will be happy to discuss the breed with you at any time. During breed judging recently the judge said to me he wished mentors in our breed would let judges know that Basenjis carry their testicles in a line rather than side by side as most other breeds. He said that information would be very helpful for judges who do not judge the breed much. I also mentioned to him that they are very good a drawing the testicles up high when they get cold making it difficult to find them as well. If you are having difficulty locating both testicles, please be gentle and let the handler know as they may be able to assist you in locating them. What is it about the breed that makes them irreplaceable in your life? Their intelligence, dedication and loyalty to their owners. How much time do I spend per week preparing for exhibition? Honestly I don’t spend much time most of the year working on grooming. The exception is during the spring when they are shed- ding their winter coat. Then I do spend time on them so they don’t look like something a moth got ahold of!
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