Judging the Basenji

This article was originally published in Showsight Magazine, July 2023 issue.

Judging the Basenji

The Basenji is one of only a few breeds worldwide with healthy populations of indigenous native stock that can be introduced into AKC domestic lines. The American Kennel Club has temporarily re-opened the stud book, allowing us to incorporate carefully selected and thoroughly evaluated native African Basenjis into breeding programs. Several expeditions by dedicated Basenji enthusiasts have already journeyed to central Africa to bring back native Basenjis, and more safaris are planned. This is an exciting time for both Basenji lovers and judges drawn to these captivating African dogs.

An ancient breed, the Basenji has long been valued as a silent hunter by tribesmen in remote parts of central Africa. These hunting dogs lived alongside families in villages, played with children, and slept in huts, becoming protective of their communities and naturally reserved with strangers.

In a typical hunt, experienced hunters set out long nets in the dense jungle, waiting with spears for game flushed by the dogs. Basenjis do not hunt in organized packs but operate more like independent agents, darting at great speed through dense brush. They wear hunting bells around their necks so hunters can follow their movement. Their working gait involves rapid leaps and bounds through tangled undergrowth. These dogs must be small and agile enough to navigate the jungle, yet strong enough to push through nearly impassable thickets without getting stuck.

When judging the Basenji, look for a dog that not only exemplifies the traits necessary for its ancestral role but also appears capable of enduring the demands of that role. The Basenji Breed Standard was designed to describe such a natural hunter.

A class of Basenjis should give an immediate impression of square, fine-boned, leggy dogs with the grace of gazelles. Clumsy or heavy-set Basenjis should not make it past the first cut. Ideal characteristics include level toplines, well-arched necks, high-set curly tails, balanced angulation, and a necessary front fill is a necessity.

Movement in the Basenji should be light and effortless, reminiscent of a finely-bred Thoroughbred horse skimming the ground with ease. These dogs have the endurance to go all day and still have energy to spare. Inefficient movement is wasteful and dangerous for a dog that may need to evade a predator in an instant.

While known for its distinctive wrinkles and curly tail, the Basenji’s essential qualities go beyond these features. The wrinkles on the head indicate that the skin on the body is fine and loose, which is crucial for a dog moving swiftly through dense jungle foliage. The curly tail must be set high for proper rear construction. Although triple-curled tails are desirable, a high-set single curl is preferable to a low-set multiple curl.

The Basenji’s head is unique and unlike any other breed. The ears are high-set and erect when alert but can be laid back when relaxed, showing affection or restfulness. Dark, almond-shaped eyes are set obliquely beneath a defined brow, lending a soft and non-piercing gaze. Fine and loose skin forms wrinkles on the forehead when the ears are up but should not hang in folds as a dewlap. Side wrinkles, though rare, are desirable. The muzzle is distinctively shorter than the skull, and reversing these proportions creates an uncharacteristic look.

Basenjis come in various colors, including rich chestnut red, pure black, tricolor, and brindle. A brindle-pointed tricolor shows black stripes on red areas, which is perfectly acceptable. White accents, such as a white chest, four white feet, and a white tail tip, enhance these colors. Additional white markings, like facial blazes, stockings, or full collars, are attractive but not required. Full collars can give the illusion of a longer neck and may be favored by some exhibitors.

In the Basenji ring, we encourage judges to greet both dogs and exhibitors with a friendly smile, and they will respond in kind. However, judges should avoid uncurling the Basenji’s tail, which can be startling or even uncomfortable for the dog. A stealthy approach may also prompt the Basenji to evaluate your intentions, and you may find yourself under scrutiny.

Specific examination techniques make judging the Basenji more pleasant and effective. Observe the dog on the table briefly from the side to assess general appearance and proportion (look for “square”). Approach from the front, extending your hand confidently. Eye contact with a smile is encouraged. Our dogs are highly food-motivated, and exhibitors carry bait. Feel free to ask for a treat to help engage a restless dog. Check bite, eye shape, musculature, skin and coat quality, and testicles as needed. No excessive handling is required. Examine on the table, but judge on the ground. Ear set, wrinkles, and expression are best observed on the ground, where the exhibitor will present them at the end of a down-and-back. Tail set and curl, as well as topline, appear most natural on the move, so avoid excessive handling that could mask flaws.

Keep the pace moderate; a well-built Basenji shines at a controlled speed.

Basenji males are known to retract their testes in cold weather. If this happens, complete your examination, gait the dog normally, and then re-check. If both testicles remain retracted, disqualification is necessary. Cold, damp conditions often lead to this issue during early morning shows.

The Basenji Club of America offers extensive educational resources on our website. Visit http://www.basenji .orgfor more information and a list of mentors. Join us at our National Specialty at Argus Ranch in Auburn, Washington, from August 7-11, for a Basenji Extravaganza! For questions, contact me at naharin@comcast.net with any questions and for further information.