Quick Stats for the Ibizan Hound Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 22 – 29 inches (56 – 74 cm)
• Weight: 42 – 55 pounds (19 – 25 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1978
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with a large sized, fenced yard

Personality of the Ibizan Hound Dog Breed

The Ibizan Hound is one of the most instinctive hunting dogs of the Hound Group. They can locate just about any animal using highly tuned-in scent and hearing skills. If given the chance to chase, these dogs will jump at the opportunity to go after small animals. They often bark while chasing prey, which is uncommon among most sight hounds.

Indoors, the Ibizan Hound makes a wonderful house pet with a quiet, well-mannered demeanor. This breed is highly devoted to its family.

History of the Ibizan Hound Dog Breed

The Ibizan Hound origin dates back to Ancient times, from the Balearic Islands. Their physical appearance is strikingly similar to that of the Pharaoh Hound, both bearing an amazing similar look as those depicted in Egyptian tombs.

It is said that Ancient Phoenician sea traders had brought these dogs with them to the Balearic Islands (Ibizan), where they remained secluded from the outside world for some time.

Although Ibizan had experienced many rulers over the years, the Ibizan Hound still remained totally pure without being crossed with other breeds. Very little has changed from its ancestral stock.

The first Ibizan Hound made its way to the United States during the 1950s. The dog made quite an impression due to its unusually striking look. Although it became popular quickly, the breed’s numbers never really took off. Today the Ibizan still remains a rare breed to be seen.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1978 as a member of the Hound Group.

The Ibizan Hound Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Owning an Ibizan Hound means living an active lifestyle. Daily runs or sprints in a safe area will keep this dog happy. In fact, they have the most fun when allowed to run at full speed, which means having access to a large field. Ideally you should live on a large property with plenty of open land to keep the Ibizan happy.

This not the type of hound that is meant to live outdoors. Although they should have access to the yard during the day it is important that they sleep inside at night with the family. Ibizan dogs have a moderate tolerance for heat but not so much for cooler temperatures.

Grooming requirements for the breed calls for the occasional brushing every couple of weeks. The wire-coated version will need brushing more often – about once weekly.

Health Problems of the Ibizan Hound Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Ibizan Hound Dog Breed is about ten to twelve years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• seizures
• dog allergies

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• retinal dysplasia
• cataracts
• axonal dystrophy
• deafness

Veterinarians recommend having the Ibizan Hound Dog tested specifically for eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Quick Stats for the Harrier Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 19 – 21 inches (48 – 50 cm)
• Weight: 40 – 60 pounds (18 – 27 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; moderately active indoors; best with lots of open space

Personality of the Harrier Dog Breed

If you have the opportunity to own a Harrier dog, then you should know just how playful and outgoing its personality can be. This dog is much more sociable than its counterpart, the Foxhound, but not quite as extroverted as the Beagle.

Harrier dogs are excellent with children, friendly, and make outstanding watchdogs. They are most happy when able to run free outdoors in a safe area, sniffing and hunting.

History of the Harrier Dog Breed

The Harrier dog breed is a member of the scent hound family. It originate from Great Britain. The term “Harrier” used to be a general reference to all hounds which is why it makes it difficult to research the exact history of today’s Harrier dog. Dog historians theorize that this dog may in fact be one of the oldest of scent hounds that are still in existence today.

References to the Harrier dog breed date back to the 13th century in England. And It is quite possible that the breed has ancestry that connects with the Talbot dog (which is extinct today), St. Hubert hounds, Brachet dogs, and eventually the French Basset.

All of these breeds combined produced a dog that had a keen ability to track hare with its strong sense of scent and at a pace slow enough that enabled hunters to keep up with them on foot.

In the past, most Harrier packs were owned and used by the gentry. However, hunters that were poor and did not have horses could also hunt alongside Harriers. The Harrier breed has been recognized in the United States since back to the colonial times.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a member of the Hound Group.

The Harrier Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Like most dogs, Harriers need daily physical exercise that can be taken care of with a long walk or a brisk jog out on the trail. It also loves to play vigorous dog games outside. They can live outdoors if need be so long as there is plenty of warm shelter and soft bedding.

Grooming requirements are minimal, with only the occasional brushing to remove loose hair.

One other important thing to know about Harrier dogs is that they are extremely sociable and need companionship at all times.

Health Problems of the Harrier Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Harrier Dog Breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• perianal fistula
• epilepsy

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 22 – 25 inches (56 – 63 cm) ; bitches: 21 – 24 inches (53 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 65 – 70 pounds (29 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: up to 15 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1909
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; very active indoors; best with lots of open space

Personality of the English Foxhound Dog

English Foxhounds are extremely friendly towards both dogs and strangers. They make excellent watchdogs, have high energy levels, and make perfect house pets. This animal requires constant social interaction and will get lonely fast if kept by itself without contact with people or other canines.

This is one dog that will get along with just about everybody and everything, including horses and other pets. It is also noted that English Foxhounds are best when raised with plenty of land in country areas to roam around. City dwelling is not meant for this dog.

History of the English Foxhound Dog

The English Foxhound is a bit more stout in physical appearance than its counterpart, the American Foxhound. Although the exact origin of this breed is unknown, we do know that particular pedigrees were kept of English Foxhounds since the 1700s.  This is longer than any other dog breed.

Fox hunting was a sport that became very popular with the the upper class and a small group of men had a vision of creating a dog that could hunt and kill fox, track a scent from miles away, and have the speed and agility to maintain long-distance running when chasing its prey.  In fact, these chases could go on for hours if necessary.

Fox hunting was such a sought-after sport that breeders wanted their Foxhounds to not only perform well when being watched to hunt, they also wanted the dogs to look beautiful, especially when running in packs. Such breeding took place to ensure that specific pack members would have the same color coat, which was usually black saddle over a tan colored body, and white points.

To give you an idea of just how popular fox hunting became, by the late 1800s there were 140 individual packs of English Foxhounds specifically created for the sport.  Each of these packs contained approximately 50 hounds and all were officially registered in England.

English Foxhounds started to make their way to the United States sometime during the 1700s.  It was during this time when they were bred with other strains to produce more streamlined physical characteristics and eventually were turned into a second Foxhound, known as the American Foxhound.  However, the English Foxhound is still the number one choice for hunters who desire the traditional hunt when on horseback.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1909 as a member of the Hound Group.

The English Foxhound Dog Care and Grooming

There is not much work required for upkeep and maintenance of the English Foxhound. This dog is clean and has minimal grooming needs, just the occasional brushing.  It can live outdoors in either cold or warm temperatures, so long as there is plenty of shade and warm bedding.

The one particular detail you should be aware of is that the English Foxhound is genetically designed to run long distances and hunt for hours on end.  Therefore, he will need plenty of daily exercise for brisk walks or long jogs with its owner.

This breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems of the English Foxhound Dog

The average life expectancy of the English Foxhound dog is up to 15 years, with 11 to 12 being the average.

Like the American Foxhound, the English Foxhound has no major health concerns.

Most dog breeds can be expected to show signs of either one or more specific diseases, but due to its pure bloodline and genetic heritage, this dog has no major or minor health issues.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

English Foxhound (Comprehensive Owner’s Guide)

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• Height (at the shoulders):
• Standard: 8 – 11 inches (20 – 27 cm)
• Miniature: 5 – 7 inches (13 – 18 cm)
• Toy: up to 12 inches (30 cm)
• Weight:
• Standard: over 11 pounds (4.9 kg)
• Miniature: 11 pounds (4.9 kg) or less
• Toy: 8 pounds (3.5 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Dachshund Dog Breed

The Dachshund is bold and adventurous. They are independent, but also love the attention from their families. These dogs are curious, amusing, and lively.

They are best with older children who understand how to properly interact with a dog. Dachshunds can also be a bit nippy with smaller children and adults who they consider strangers. They are generally fine with other pets.

This breed loves to hunt and dig. If you live near a wooded area, it can be fascinating to watch your Dachshund pick up on a scent and go hunting for small game. However, be careful not to let them just run off.

Some dogs are prone to excessive barking, but not all of them. They also make excellent watchdogs.

History of the Dachshund Dog Breed

The Dachshund originated in Germany sometime around the early 1600s. They were bred to hunt small game such as badgers and rabbits. Their short legs allow them to hunt and follow these small game inside their burrows.

Their numbers declined during World War I, but some dogs were taken from Germany to the United States where their numbers once again increased.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a member of the Hound Group.The AKC recognizes two standards for the Dachshund – the Standard and the Miniature. In Europe, they also recognize the Toy variety.

The Dachshund Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Dachshunds are very active and need to get exercise on a daily basis. However, because of their small size, they can get plenty of exercise by just running around indoors. Like with all other dogs they still need to be taken on walks, daily if possible. They enjoy playing games and love to participate in training exercises. They can be a bit stubborn at times however.

There are three types of Dachshund – the Long-Haired, the Short-Haired, and the Wired-Haired.

The Long-Haired Dachshund requires daily combing and brushing with a good dog brush. The Wire-Haired Dachshund requires professional grooming twice per year. And the Smooth-Haired Dachshund requires a regular rub down of the coat with a soft damp cloth.

These dogs are average shedders.

Health Problems of the Dachshund Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Dachshund dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• intervertebral disk disease

Minor health issues include:

• KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
• diabetes
• gastric torsion
• Cushing’s disease
• deafness
• patellar luxation
• seizures
• obesity

Veterinarians recommend having the Dachshund dog breed tested specifically for eye problems.

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 20 – 27 inches (51 – 69 cm)
• Weight: 45 – 80 pounds (20 – 36 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 11 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 2009
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; relatively inactive indoors; best with large sized yard

Personality of the Bluetick Coonhound Dog

Bluetick Coonhounds are intelligent, loving and loyal pets. They are great guardians of their family and their property.

This is an athletic breed that are working dogs, requiring something to do such as hunting, obedience, or agility activities.

They are gentle with children, but are usually best with older children. These dogs can be good with other dogs and people as long as they are socialized properly from when they are young. Try to keep them away from cats and other small household pets. This is because they have a very strong instinct to hunt.

They have a tendency to slobber and drool.

These dogs, like many other hounds, do not have a regular bark. Rather, they bay which sounds more like a short howl. It is believed that each dog has a unique bark that owners can usually recognize.

History of the Bluetick Coonhound Dog

It is believed that the Bluetick Coounhound originated in Tennessee, where it is the state dog. Because of their color, it is believed that they are descendants of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (the French Staghound), and the English Foxhound.

For many years, people in America called these dogs the English Coonhound. In 1945, Bluetick breeders separated from English breeders, renamed their dogs to the Bluetick Coonhound, and continued to develop their own hunting style.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 2009.

The Bluetick Coonhound Dog Care and Grooming

The Bluetick Coonhound requires plenty of vigorous daily exercise. Take them on a long brisk walk, on leash as they have a tendency to run after a scent trail. They were bred for physical activity and can become anxious and destructive if not given sufficient exercise.

Grooming of their short glossy coat requires only an occasional brushing with a good dog brush. You can also use a rubber grooming mitt to remove any dead hairs from the coat. Pay special attention their floppy hound ears to keep them clean and free of infection.

Health Problems of the Bluetick Coonhound Dog

The average life expectancy of the Bluetick Coonhound dog is about eleven to twelve years.

Health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• cataracts
• Krabbes Disease

• Height (at the shoulders): 21 – 25 inches (53 – 64 cm)
• Weight: 65 – 75 pounds (29 – 34 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1886
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; very active indoors; best with open space

Personality of the American Foxhound Dog

American Foxhounds are affectionate, gentle, and loyal dogs. They were bred for hunting, but make excellent family pets regardless of any hunting activities. They are excellent with children. However, they are recommended for families who live an active lifestyle, or who are serious about making sure they get plenty of exercise. They have very high energy levels and can develop behavioral problems if not provided with sufficient exercise.

They get along with just about everyone, even strangers. However, that does not mean that they will not protect their families and property.

These dogs like to bay and their barks have often been described as melodious.

History of the American Foxhound Dog

The origin of the American Foxhound goes as far back as 1650. It was one of the first American dog breeds to come from England and recorded as an experienced fox chaser. By the mid 1700s, a favorite form of entertainment, especially among the upper class, was to watch these hounds chase prey.

Before long, these dogs were imported from France, England, and Ireland. You can find records of Foxhound pedigrees going as far back as 1850. Around this time, fox hunting became very popular throughout the southern United States. The most popular areas for fox hunting were the mountains of Kentucky and Tennessee.

These dogs were amazing and agile hunters that were perfect companions for fox hunts. They not only had the ability to track prey, but they were also able to make the kill when necessary. Because of these skills, they were the preferred hunting breed among hunters.

Over time, the American Foxhound became more streamlined than its cousin, the English Foxhound. They actually developed into two distinct breeds and are recognized as different dogs by the AKC.

The American Foxhound was one of the earliest breeds recognized by the AKC and was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

The American Foxhound Dog Care and Grooming

These dogs require vigorous daily exercise in the form of long brisk walks, a long jog, or even running alongside you while you ride your bike. Because of their high energy levels, they are recommended for families who can commit to providing them with lots of exercise daily.

Their smooth, short coats are pretty easy to maintain and require just an occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush to remove any dead hairs.

American Foxhounds are average shedders.

Health Problems of the American Foxhound Dog

The average life expectancy of the American Foxhound dog is about ten to twelve years.

There are no major health concerns for this dog breed.

Minor health issues include:

• tends to gain weight easily

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• thrombopathy

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: at least 28 inches (71 cm) ; bitches: at least 26 inches (66 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 75 – 105 pounds (34 – 48 kg)  ; bitches: 60 – 90 pounds (27 – 41 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1891
• Shedding: heavy shedder; seasonal shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Borzoi Dog

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a striking member of the AKC Hound Group. They are one of the most well-mannered dogs you will find and make excellent family pets. They are affectionate towards their owners and great with children.

Most Borzoi dogs tend to be reserved and shy around strangers.

History of the Borzoi Dog

The Borzoi originated in Russia and be traced as far back as the Middle Ages. For several hundred years they were bred by Russian aristocrats.

In the early 13th Century they were used to course hare. Eventually, they were crossed with coursing hounds, Russian sheepdogs, and bear hounds to increase the breed’s overall size, and to improve the dog’s coat. The resulting mix was a dog that could hunt wolf even in very cold weather.

They would often hunt in packs of three – one female and two males. When a wolf was spotted, the dogs were unleashed. They would then hunt and take down the wolf with great agility and precision, and hold the wolf there until the hunter arrived on the scene.

By the 1800s, there were seven different types of Borzoi dogs in Russia. The Borzoi of today came from the Perchino variety. Unfortunately, during the Russian Revolution, many of the Borzoi were killed. The breed was able to survive through the efforts of foreign royalty who owned several Borzoi kennels.

Today, the breed is quite popular in the show ring. They are also used as coursing dogs.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1891.

The Borzoi Dog Care and Grooming

Borzoi dogs do not like really hot weather, but can do well in moderately cool temperatures.

They need plenty of physical exercise. Take them on a long daily walk, but you should also try to provide them with sufficient opportunity to run off leash as well. They like to run so they make excellent jogging partners. They usually enjoy running alongside you on a bicycle ride as well. However, you should know that the Borzoi is likely to chase after prey if given the chance.

They have very long, silky coats that are pretty easy to groom. You should brush their coats regularly with a good firm bristle brush.

They are heavy shedders, but only shed seasonally.

Health Problems of the Borzoi Dog

The average life expectancy of the Borzoi dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• gastric torsion

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism
• cardiomyopathy
• prone to bloat

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

Veterinarians recommend having the Borzoi dog tested specifically for cardiac and thyroid problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 14 – 16 inches (36 – 41 cm) ; bitches: 13 – 15 inches (33 – 38 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 22 – 25 pounds (10 – 11 kg) ; bitches: 20 – 23 pounds (9 – 10 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment; very active indoors; small backyard okay

Personality of AKC Beagles

Beagles are one of those wonderful dog breeds that just loves attention from their human family. They are very friendly and loyal, which makes them excellent pets and companions. They are also great with children, since they are usually sweet, gentle, and happy dogs.

These hounds also enjoy being around other dogs. However, because of their hunting instinct, they should not be trusted around other smaller pets.

History of AKC Beagles

Like many other dog breeds, the origin of the Beagle is unclear. However, from as early as the 1500s, some say even earlier than that, English hunters used dogs that were similar to the Beagle in packs to hunt rabbit and small prey. It wasn’t until sometime in the 1800s that the modern day Beagle breed was really developed.

The Beagle came to the United States around 1876 where today, it is one of the most popular dog breeds.

AKC Beagles were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

Beagle Care and Grooming

Because they are such energetic dogs, daily exercise should be a part of your Beagle’s routine. Take them on a long walk or a quick run.

Beagles really enjoy the opportunity to sniff along small pathways and trails. Just make sure not to let them do this off-leash. If they catch the scent of some small creature, they have been know to run after that exciting smell. These dogs just love the freedom of being able to play around in an enclosed backyard.

The Beagle has a smooth short-haired coat that is pretty easy to take care of. You should only give them a bath when it is necessary. Brush their coats with a firm bristle brush at least once per week. Check their ears regularly, and do not forget to trim the nails.

The Beagle is an average shedder.

Health Problems of AKC Beagles

The average lifespan of the Beagle dog breed is about ten to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• intervertebral disk disease

Minor health issues include:

• epilepsy
• glaucoma
• patellar luxation
• KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) – dry eye
• chondrodysplasia
• hypothyroidism

Veterinarians recommend having Beagles tested specifically for eye problems, hip dysplasia, knee problems, and thyroid problems.

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 12 – 15 inches (30 – 38 cm) ; bitches: 11 – 14 inches (28 – 36 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 50 – 65 pounds (23 – 29 kg) ; bitches: 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 9 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: constant shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment; very inactive indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Basset Hound Dog

Basset Hounds are some of the sweetest, most gentle, and laid-back dogs you will find. They are very friendly with just about every person and animal they encounter. They are great family pets, and especially good with children.

Although they are so affectionate and friendly, do not underestimate their ability as a watchdog since these dogs make great watchdogs.

History of the Basset Hound Dog

The exact time in history that the Basset Hound breed was created cannot be accurately determined. However, historians have discovered references to this dog as far back a the 16th Century. They found references to a short-legged dog use for badger hunting in ancient texts from this time period.

It is also known that similar dwarf dog breeds with short legs existed in ancient times. However, it has been difficult to determine exactly when and why the Basset Hound was bred.

It is also known that short-legged dogs were used during the French Revolution for slower-paced hunting events. After the Revolution, the history of the breed becomes more clear.

During the time after the Revolution, Basset Hounds became more popular as hunting companions. You see, hunters needed a dog with a great scent ability, but they also wanted one who was slow enough that they could follow with their guns. The Basset Hound with its short legs and great scent ability was the perfect fit.

During the late 1800s and sometime around 1930, crosses were made with Bloodhounds to increase the size of the dog. Basset Hounds were first brought to England and then to the United States during the late 1800s.

The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The Basset Hound Dog Care and Grooming

These dogs should always sleep indoors with their families. However, they would enjoy the freedom of an enclosed backyard during the day.

Basset Hounds do not need a whole lot of daily exercise. A long daily walk around the neighborhood, once or twice per day would be sufficient. Of course, they will certainly enjoy any playtime activities you can provide.

Minimal grooming is needed. Brush their smooth, short-haired coat with a firm bristle brush. Give them a bath only when necessary. Remember to wipe under their long ears regularly.

The breed is a constant shedder.

Health Problems of the Basset Hound Dog

The average lifespan of the Basset hound is about nine to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• ectropion
• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• gastric torsion
• OCD
• thrombopathy
• otitis externa
• elbow dysplasia

Minor health issues include:

• patellar luxation
• obesity -  if they are overfed
• prone to bloat

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 16 – 17 inches (41 – 43 cm) ; bitches: 15 – 16 inches (38 – 41 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 22 – 26 pounds (10 – 12 kg) ; bitches: 20 – 25 pounds (9 – 11 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 13 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1944
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in an apartment; very active indoors; small yard is good

Personality of Basenjis

These hound dogs are very feisty, and have similar behaviors to members of the Terrier Group. They are intelligent, inquisitive, clever, and can be stubborn on occasion. Many enthusiasts of this breed compare their attitude to that of a cat, which are reserved, yet independent.

They love to hunt and chase whenever they have an opportunity. The breed does not bark much. Actually, when they do vocalize, they make a shriek, something like a yelp, rather than a regular bark.

They do best with children who understand how to be around dogs.

Basenjis can get along with other dogs, but should not be trusted around other types of pets. They tend to be reserved with strangers, but can form strong bonds with their family.

History of the Basenji Dog

This dog is one the oldest and most primitive of dog breeds. They were originally discovered by Pygmy hunters somewhere in the African Congo. The early Pygmy tribes used them as pack hunters to drive small game into net traps.

During the 1800s and early 1900s, people started bringing the dogs to England. Most of them died as a result of distemper. During the 1930s, a number of Basenjis were successfully introduced to England. These dogs became a stock for future dogs bred outside of Africa.

Over time, more dogs were imported to England. Eventually, the breed found its way to America. They gained in popularity pretty quickly and soon became a common household pet.

The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1944.

Basenji Dogs Care and Grooming

The Basenji loves the freedom of being able to roam around outdoors. If you have a fenced backyard, especially a large area, then your Basenji will just love playing outside. Just make sure that you have shade available as well as plenty of fresh water, especially in hot weather. As with most dogs, keep them indoors with you at night.

This breed needs plenty of exercise on a daily basis. They require both mental and physical stimulation. Exercise can be in the form of a brisk walk, vigorous games, especially fetching and chasing. Without the proper amount of exercise they tend to become overweight.

The Basenji has a unique way of grooming, it cleans itself much like a cat does. They do not have that usual doggie odor, so there is really little grooming that needs to be done. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies.

This breed is a light shedder and sheds little to no hair.

Health Problems of Basenji Dogs

The average lifespan of the Basenji is about twelve to thirteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• Basenji enteropathy
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• Fanconi syndrome (kidney problems)

Minor health issues include:

• PK (Pyruvate Kinase) Deficiency
• PPM (Persistent Pupillary Membrane)
• umbilical hernias
• hypothyroidism

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book: