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.

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Interview with Kim Byrd, Breeder Behind the KISA Kennel

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Kim Byrd: I live in Powhatan, Virginia. I have been in dogs for 35 years; 30 years as a breeder.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

Kim Byrd: My kennel name is KISA (Kim Is Still Around). I currently keep eight Basenjis, eight Miniature Pinschers, and one German Wirehaired Pointer.

Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?

Kim Byrd: CH Ben Lyn’s Curtain Call (Min Pin), BISA BISS CH Altanero Barnstormer (Min Pin), CH KISA Adare Glamour Girl (Min Pin), CH KISA Love At First Sight (Basenji), and CH KISA Tarragon (Basenji).

Which have been my most influential sires and dams?

Sires: Curtain Call and Barnstormer (Min Pin); CH Sanderlin Adare Prince Of Tides (Min Pin); CH KISA N Marlex Firestorm (Min Pin); CH KISA Love At First Sight (Basenji); and CH Akuaba Tornado (Basenji), owned by Susan Coe.

Dams: CH KISA N Hiland Command Performance (Min Pin), CH Marlex Adare Seven Come Eleven KISA (Min Pin), CH KISA Surrender The Storm (Basenji); and CH Jasiri-Sukari Inherit The Win (Basenji).

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Kim Byrd: I have a separate building for the dogs next to my house. It’s heated and air-conditioned, has water and bathing facilities, and large running areas for the dogs. I separate each breed for safety.

Puppies are whelped and raised in my puppy room in the house. The floor is rubber-matted for safety and play, and has a television and a radio for sound. I have many folks come to visit to play with the babies when they are young. Puppies are litterbox-trained and cuddled often.

What is my “process” for selecting Show Puppies? Performance Puppies?

Kim Byrd: I sit and watch puppies play. They are placed on very low tables and “stacked.” They each wear little collars (which mostly they chew off). Puppy play shows the outgoing ones and allows me to watch toplines and movement. Choosing show Basenjis is pretty much WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get). However, I wait until they are between 9-12 weeks to finally decide. Then it’s up to them. Choosing Miniature Pinschers is a longer process of watching and touching. They go through so many growth changes; however, their movement style either gets better or it never was. I’m a soundness nut for both of my breeds. If it’s not sound and healthy, I’m going in the wrong direction, in my humble opinion.

I don’t have the time to enjoy Performance training; however, the Performance puppies I’ve placed have been because they are clever. They figure out things faster and are just as busy. Both breeds are not the easiest in Performance, but the folks who have done so have been extremely patient.

How important are Breed Specialties to me? How important are Group Shows?

Kim Byrd: Breed Specialties are where I learn where my breeds are going. I’ve gone with and without dogs just to talk to other breeders and friends to find where our breeds are heading. Groups Shows are important as they afford me a chance to show off what has been created and allow me to show other breeds and learn.

What are my priorities when it comes to breeding? What are the drawbacks?

Kim Byrd: Health, structure, and type are my priorities. One drawback for me is not finding a stud dog to work with my pedigrees, to add those things I feel I lack in regards to type and health.

How would I define “conditioning” as it relates to my breeds? How important is coat care?

Kim Byrd: Miniature Pinscher and Basenji conditioning is space to run and be outside to play. Eating a high-quality food keeps their bodies running and working at their best. Coats are conditioned from the inside (food) and bathed to keep clean.

Are there any health-related concerns in my breeds? Any special nutritional needs?

Kim Byrd: Miniature Pinscher health concerns are patellar luxation, cervical (dry) disc, Legg-Calve Perthes, epilepsy, thyroid, heart defects, and eye problems in varying degrees of severity. Basenji health concerns are Fanconi Syndrome, progressive retinol atrophy, and thyroid.

Do I think my breeds are supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

Kim Byrd: We have come a very long way in Miniature Pinschers as far as preservation breeders. In Basenjis, we are losing longtime breeders as many breeds are; however, there are new breeders coming up who have decided to learn from the great ones while we still have them around.

Are my breeds well suited to be family dogs? Who are the best candidates to own my breeds?

Kim Byrd: Miniature Pinschers are great family dogs, with some structure. Children should be taught patience and kindness to them. Basenjis are good family dogs for families with patience and a fence. Basenjis are hunting dogs and love to explore.

What are the biggest misconceptions about my breeds? What are my breeds’ best-kept secrets?

Kim Byrd: The biggest misconception about Miniature Pinschers is they are yappy and can’t be taught not to be. Their best-kept secret is how sweet and loving they can be. The biggest misconception about Basenjis is they are not nice and also can’t be taught anything. Their best-kept secret is that they are really smart and clever and funny.

If I could share a comment or two with judges of my breeds, what would I like to say to them?

Kim Byrd: Miniature Pinscher judges, please remember they are to be saucy and judged on the ground. It’s a moot point to judge on the table, as our Standard says. You will see a variety of styles of hackney, but remember, soundness counts.

Basenji judges, please understand that the Basenji is an individual and should be approached as you would a cat; from the front and don’t grab the head.

Do I have any words of wisdom to pass along to newer breeders?

Kim Byrd: Please talk to us old-timers. We have been there and done that, and we can help you.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Toy Dog?

Kim Byrd: I had a dog Special that loved lady judges. He would prance and show off, and look to see if they were looking. I put him on the table for one particular judge and he just wanted her attention so badly. She put her hands on his back and he spun around and began to breed her arm! Thank goodness she had a wonderful sense of humor and experience with Min Pins. She patiently waited a few moments for him to relax and said, “NOW put him on the floor!” I was red and quite embarrassed.

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The Basenji is one of only a few breeds on earth in which healthy populations of indigenous native stock can be accessed and bred into AKC domestic populations. The 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. This is an exciting time for Basenji enthusiasts and judges alike who are intrigued by these enchanting African imps.

This is an ancient breed, long-prized as silent hunters by tribesmen in remote areas of central Africa. The hunting dogs have 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.

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-fashioned hunting bells around their necks so that the hunters can track the individual dogs at all times. Their working gait is a series of lightning fast leaps and bounds through tangled undergrowth. 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.

This is an ancient breed, long-prized as silent hunters by tribesmen in remote areas of central Africa.

When you judge the Basenji, you will be looking for a dog which is not only capable of performing his ancestral duties but is capable of surviving the experience as well. The Basenji Breed 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 of gazelles. The 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 balanced, and front fill is a necessity.

Movement is light and effortless and should put you in mind of a highly-bred Thoroughbred horse, joyfully skimming the earth while out for an afternoon jaunt. These dogs can go all day and come back for more. Inefficient 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.

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. The wrinkles on the head serve as a hallmark that the skin on the body is sufficiently fine and loose; a requirement for a dog that needs to make its way unimpeded and unharmed at speed through coiled vines and thorny shrubbery. 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. They can be carried back when the dog is relaxed, expressing affection, or dozing. Eyes are dark, almond-shaped, obliquely set, and surmounted by a distinct brow; they do not stare forward with a piercing gaze. The 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 a dewlap. Side wrinkles are desirable but, sadly, in short supply these days. The 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 brindle-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, stockings, 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 sometimes favored by exhibitors.

The 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. They should return the favor.

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-specific examination techniques which can be employed to make your judging experience 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 contact is good, as long as it is accompanied by a smile. Helpful hint: our dogs are extremely food-oriented and our exhibitors 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 reluctant 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 testicles, 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 exhibitor 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 natural 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 off the table, gait him normally, and then put him back on the table for a re-check. This may help, but if two normal testicles still cannot be located, you have no choice but to disqualify. As Basenjis are quite often scheduled to be shown at the crack of dawn, with cold, wet dew still on the grass, be aware that this is a possibility.

The Basenji Club of America has devoted considerable time and expertise to educational efforts on our website. Please visit us 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, Washington, from August 7-11. Please join us there for a Basenji Extravaganza! You may contact me at naharin@comcast.net with any questions and for further information.

The post Judging the Basenji appeared first on Showsight Magazine.

The Basenji dog breed has a coat of many different types of colors and markings. Read more to learn how the colors originated and changed through time, as well as what are considered rare and what are considered standard or common Basenji colors and markings.

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Standard Basenji Colors

• Black & White
• Black Tan & White
• Brindle & White
• Red & White

Rare Basenji Colors

• Black Brindle & White
• Cream & White
• Sable & White
• Blue Cream & White
• Mahogany Tan & White

Basenji breed has four types of markings of which only the Brindle markings are common, while Black Mask, Black Saddle, With Cap Basenji markings are more rare.

Basenji Colors and Markings Through History

The Basenji is an aboriginal African hunting dog that has lived in close association with man in the rainforests of Central Africa for thousands of years.

Early English and European explorers 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 Africa.

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. When an experimental distemper vaccine was finally developed, later imports continued to perish from its aftereffects. These dogs enchanted fanciers 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) Basenji color patterns.

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 Club of America Ballot From 1970

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 standard has no disqualifications for color, and we like it that way.

Basenji Colors and Markings in the Modern Show Ring

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. Basenji’s 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.”

Basenji Breed Colors (AKC)

Basenji Breed Markings (AKC)

The Chestnut Red Basenji

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 Basenji

Pure black is a glossy black with no tan hairs. There may be some grey undercoat at times or scattered 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.

The Tricolor Basenji (Pure Black and Chestnut Red)

Tricolor Basenji is open to more variation and we do see several different color patterns that fit this description. The normal tricolor Basenji 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 overall 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 Basenji

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 arrangement 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 Basenjis in our breeding programs.

Brindle-pointed Tri or a “Trindle“

As it happens, the brindle stripes transfer neatly to the red portions of the coat to form a “brindle-pointed tri” or “trindle” Basenji. 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 predominate 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.

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Interview with Hound Group Breeder Heather Galford – HighGard Kennels

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: My husband, daughter, and I are located in Grant, Alabama. I have been “in dogs” for going on eight years now; however, before dogs, I grew up showing and raising Quarter Horses. I gravitated into purebred dogs after graduating from high school. My first breed was the German Shepherd Dog. I was training dogs for a dog sport called IPO, which consisted of Protection, Obedience, and Tracking. And I was also showing them in UKC.

Growing up, every year, I found myself watching the National Dog Show and Westminster on television. I was always intrigued by them and dreamed of making it to that level with a dog of my own one day. Being the kid that I was, I was not sure if that were going to be possible, or if my parents would even allow it.

After I finished my Associate’s degree in Advanced Manufacturing Technology, I decided to go back to college to obtain my Bachelor’s degree. Going back to college meant small apartments, which were not very suitable for a German Shepherd. I researched and fell in love with the Basenji. I reached out to a breeder who had an older pup available to a show home. He already had a major towards his AKC championship. In late 2016, I brought home my first Basenji and have been in the breed ever since. When I met my husband, he liked the Basenjis and going to shows, but he wanted his own breed. He conducted months of research and settled on a little red hound called a Cirneco dell’Etna. We reached out to a breeder, Nancy Lee Wight of Rockin’ Heart Ranch, and talked to her for hours about the breed and how we were interested in getting a lovely show quality puppy from her. We got on her waiting list, and a year later I brought home a little red male puppy. Nancy would answer any questions that we had and helped us along our journey with the puppy. Today, Nancy is my partner and my mentor when it comes to breeding quality Cirnechi.

This year, I produced my first Basenji litter, and in the upcoming months I will have what could potentially be my first bred-by champion. I also currently have plans for my first Cirnechi litter in the coming years.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: My kennel name is HighGard, and we currently have eight dogs; six Basenjis and two Cirnechi.

Which show dogs from the past have been my noteworthy winners?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: A German Shepherd named “Hemi” was my first UKC champion. “Orion,” my first Basenji, was the first dog that I ever put a major on. “Spartacus” (Cirneco dell’Etna) took Breed at the Westminster Kennel Club in 2021, Breed at the AKC National Championship in 2021, and was the No. 1 Cirneco dell’Etna All-Systems 2021. He is a multiple Group placer and is currently the No. 1 Cirneco dell’Etna. Spartacus also recently finished his Silver Grand Championship, becoming the second male in the breed to achieve this and the youngest dog to achieve it at two years old. He also made breed history at Westminster in 2021 when he became the first male in the breed to win Best of Breed since the breed was fully recognized in 2015. “Thor” (Basenji) is the dog of many firsts for me; first Owner-Handled Group placements, first Owner-Handled Best in Show & Owner-Handled Reserve Best in Show, first Regular Group placement, and first placement at a National Specialty. Last year, Thor was awarded Select Dog at the Basenji National Specialty by the honorable Hound Judge, Michael Canalizo.

Which have been my most influential sires and dams?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: I wanted to establish myself and educate myself about breeds before attempting to breed any animals. As such, I currently have only had one litter. The current sire’s I have are GCH Dark Moon’s God of Thunder (Thor) and GCH Klassic’s Fate of the Gods at HighGard; both have pups that will be hitting show rings in the coming months!

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: Currently, everyone is housed inside in a designated area of the house for them. All puppies are whelped in the house where we can closely monitor each pup. Puppies are raised with Puppy Culture, where they are introduced to a multitude of different things, getting them ready for anything they could possibly face in their new homes.

What is my “process” for selecting show puppies? At what age do I make my decisions?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: At 8 weeks of age, a few breeder-friends and I get together and evaluate each puppy in the litter. Typically, at 8 weeks, I will decide, unless there are a couple other factors that add in. Then, I will keep a puppy back until I either see or do not see what the factor is.

How do you prepare your pups for the show ring? Does your breed require any special preparation?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: At an early age, I begin to properly socialize all of my puppies. During this time, I am also introducing them to moving on a show lead as well as training them to be stacked on a table/ramp. My husband will go over the stacked puppies so that they can become accustomed to the feeling of a hands-on evaluation. When puppies have had all their shots, they begin to travel with me to shows where I can socialize them to busy show environments, different breeds of dogs, and to other people and children.

Can I share my thoughts on how my breed is currently presented in the show ring?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: As far as the Cirnechi, I believe that while a rare breed here in the United States, we are more represented on the West Coast than on the East Coast. I would say that the breed is more represented on the West Coast due to the significantly higher entry counts. On the East Coast, you are lucky to have an entry of two or more, unless it is a Specialty Show.

Basenjis are very well-represented in the show rings. There are typically entry counts in the double digits at a variety of shows. There is also a wide range of quality from multiple breeders from all over the country.

Are there any health-related concerns within my breed? Any special nutritional needs?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: In general, Cirnechi are a healthy “primitive” breed that, with thousands of years of natural selection, has bred-out health-related concerns. However, now that man is involved in breeding there have been some issues that have arisen in the past couple of years. A big one includes issues of the eyes that can be avoidable with a simple OFA eye examination. The AKC parent club does not require any health testing, so it is up to the breeders to decide if they health test or not. The tests that I recommend for the sire and dam to have are OFA eye examinations and OFA Heart Auscultation Exam. I know of some other breeders who require OFA hips and elbows as well. Cirnechi require more of a higher protein diet due to their higher metabolism. I feed Purina Pro Plan Performance 30/20 mixed with Grandma Lucy’s Freeze-Dried Dog Food.

As for Basenjis, there are quite a few more health issues than in the Cirnechi. Basenjis must be health tested for Fanconi, PRA (night blindness), OFA Eye Certification, OFA Thyroid, and OFA Hips. These are all of the items required for an OFA CHIC Number. There are a lot of reputable breeders in the United States who genuinely care for the breed and test; however, there are a lot of backyard breeders out there who are only in it for the money. They are breeding dogs that could have Fanconi, a deadly hereditary disorder that attacks the kidney tubule function which ultimately ends in death. Basenjis should be on a lower protein diet. If on a higher protein diet, this could cause issues in the urinary tract and kidney stones.

In my opinion, is my breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: Currently, in Cirnechi, the breed is in a decent place in the United States due in no small part to the responsible and selective breeding efforts by some of our top breeders. One trend that I have noticed is that in the ring there are judges who are not properly educated, thus, put up dogs with disqualifications or serious faults. This could become a grave issue unless we, as responsible breeders, owners, and lovers of the breed, take a more proactive role in ensuring proper judges’ education.

In Basenjis, the breed is in a good place thanks to all of the efforts of the longtime breeders who have paved the way to all the newcomers today. Of course, like any breed, there are concerns. For example, the Basenji is a square breed, though recently there have been a lot of dogs in the show ring that are not square. Also, there are straight front and bite issues which can only be corrected through very selective breeding. But no matter how selective the breedings, and even with substantial progress for multiple generations, these issues can re-arise.

Is my breed well-suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: The best pet home for a Cirnechi is someone who is patient and can stimulate them both intellectually as well as physically, and spend time with them as Cirnechi are prone to feeling lonely and unhappy when left alone. Prospective owners will need to keep them leashed for their own safety when outside of a fenced-in area as their sighthound instincts can kick in, especially if they spot movement which may overcome all of their training. Given this, off-leash, the Cirnechi’s long-honed hunting instincts mean it is likely to disappear into the undergrowth. Another note is that due to where the breed evolved (and in the intense heat), the Cirneco highly dislikes the cold and will cuddle with its human for warmth. Having come from this hot environment, the breed has a natural, short coat that requires minimal care and attention. Overall, with Cirnechi, you can expect a loyal friend that loves to cuddle on the couch as well as go on adventures with you.

With Basenjis, much of the above is similar as they are both sighthounds with remarkably high prey drive. However, many Basenjis are cat-like and can be less lovey-dovey than Cirnechi as they have a far more independent temperament. Many Basenjis can and do climb over chain-link or mesh fencing, so special precautions must be taken to ensure the animal’s safety.

Do I feel that my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: As far as bloodlines and ensuring that a good mix of new, native Sicilian blood is introduced to AKC champion bloodlines, overall, we are doing an excellent job. Combine this with the fact that we are only 183rd out of 205 breeds, we are currently in a good place as far as the number of breeders. But as we look forward to the future and grow our breed in terms of popularity, we will have to grow, educate, and develop more responsible preservation breeders.

With Basenjis, I personally feel that we have an extraordinarily strong group of preservation breeders who do an excellent job of supporting the breed and are willing to mentor those who are new to the breed.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Hound?

HighGard Kennels – Heather Galford: The most amusing thing that I have witnessed with one of our Hounds was when our daughter was born. The day we came home from the hospital, Thor, our Basenji, fell in love with her at first sight. In those first few days he became protective of her, sitting in front of her swing, guarding her. In the ten months that have followed, Thor has begun to gently play with her, making her giggle as if she is his puppy.

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Interview with Hound Group Breeders Brenda & Ciara Cassell – Signet Kennels

Where do we live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: We are located outside of Fort Worth, Texas. I am a second-generation breeder and exhibitor. My parents purchased our first Basenji in 1974. To date, we have bred 136 AKC Conformation champions. We also have had many successful exports. I am fortunate to have a talented daughter to carry on this tradition, and we are anticipating our fourth generation in the sport soon.

What is our kennel name? How many dogs do we currently keep?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: Our kennel name is Signet Kennels. We are currently at about 15 Basenjis, which includes five exceptional puppies kept from last year’s breedings. Placement of retired show and breeding dogs is important in order to honor these wonderful dogs who have served us faithfully. This allows us to continue to develop the next generations. We usually offer one or two retirees to lucky families every couple of years.

Which show dogs from the past have been our noteworthy winners?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: MBISS CH Kibushi Hifalutin of Vasia, aka “Violet,” was a quarter African bitch and the first red bitch to win a Hound Group. She was co-bred and owned by Jon and Vicki Curby. I handled her during her specials career and co-bred her to another great dog that I handled, MBIS/MBISS CH Reveille Boutonnière JC.

MBISS Am./Can. CH Nyanga Signet Sweet William JC was my first big winner and the son of the above dogs. Together we won many Hound Groups and Specialties, including the Basenji Club of America National Specialty as a Veteran.

My most recent pride and joy is MBIS/MBISS GCHG Signet Meisterhaus Gossip Girl. She was selected for campaign by Erin Roberts and shown under the generosity of Buster and Sandra Middlebrooks to the number one slot in Basenjis for two years. It was my greatest thrill to pilot “Gigi” to two Best in Show awards and her National Specialty win. I am deeply appreciative of Tad Brooks of Meisterhaus for allowing me to co-breed and to choose this spectacular bitch from this stellar litter, which included another National Specialty winner.

Which have been our most influential sires and dams?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: I’ve had great success with most of my breeding stock, but one of the most influential dams is CH Signet ‘Tis-A Gone With The Wind, who produced spectacular quality in each of her litters. She is the dam of CH Signet Southern Comfort, who is consistently the best-producing dog I have had and the sire of BIS winners. “SoCo” is only six years of age.

Can we talk a bit about our facilities? Where are our puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: We have a 13 ft. x 20 ft. kennel building with nine indoor/outdoor runs complete with heat and air-conditioning. Each run has a Kuranda hammock, indoors and outdoors, for lounging. The outdoor runs are topped with wire and a shade cloth, and are 4 ft. x 15 ft. Additionally, we have three large play yards for our dogs, one gravel and two grass. Our kennel has bathing and laundry facilities, which makes clean up easy.

Puppies are whelped in the house and remain in the kitchen and dining room until about 6 weeks. They are then moved to the kennel where they have access to go outdoors, and they continue to come into the house daily to sleep and play until “gotcha day.”

We feel it is important to ensure that our puppies have a wide variety of experiences, and our grandchildren come to play with them when they are old enough to receive visitors. Once vaccines are administered, we do allow limited visits with our new owners. The first car ride to the vet for eye testing is also a good experience for puppies.

What is our “process” for selecting show puppies? At what age do we make our decisions?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: We choose from the bottom up. As the puppies grow, the companion puppies are selected first as we continue to watch show prospects. Between 6 and 8 weeks, we can identify which puppies we will allow into “companion only” homes. By 9-10 weeks, we grade and select the show puppies. We always keep a minimum of two puppies from each litter, including the best dog and bitch.

How do we prepare our pups for the show ring? Does our breed require any special preparation?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: It’s important to get Basenji puppies out at around four months. We start puppy class once all vaccines are administered and we try to take puppies to shows in pairs, to observe and learn the routine. Socialization is extremely important, especially with other breeds of dogs.

Can we share our thoughts on how our breed is currently presented in the show ring?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: Ours is a breed that is mostly presented by owners and breeders. We groom minimally and present the dogs in a more natural state. They should be gaited at a moderate trot.

Are there any health-related concerns within our breed? Any special nutritional needs?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: The Basenji Club of America has worked closely with researchers to identify the Fanconi and PRA gene. With the available testing, there is no reason to produce these genetic diseases. Our breed is in a really good place right now. Generally, Basenjis do not require any special nutritional care.

In our opinion, is our breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: We are in really good shape right now. I do not see any trends that concern me.

Is our breed well-suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own our breed?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: They can be wonderful family dogs. Basenjis require structure, disciple, and a strict routine. As a working Hound, they also need plenty of exercise and are not well-suited for apartment living. A tired Basenji is a good Basenji. We find the best candidates are folks who are structured in their daily activities and are athletic-minded.

Do we feel that our breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: Sadly, no. There are only a handful of us left, and many are aging out of active breeding and exhibition. We try to encourage new owners to get involved in Conformation or Coursing sports. I am fortunate that one of my three children is active and involved in my breeding program, and handling dogs professionally.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing we’ve ever experienced with a Hound?

Signet Kennels – Brenda & Ciara Cassell: Living with Basenjis is constantly amusing. They are unlike any other breed.

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Basenjis are a square breed (not that the standard 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 inches. 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 sternum 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 actually 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 generations 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!”

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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 omitted 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, rectangular, 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 substituted, 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.

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.)

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! Agility (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 quizzical 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 actually working with the club. The major influence on the 1942 Standard was Veronica Tudor-Williams, who had been mentored by those
early founders.

So, that first approved Basenji Standard was already once removed from the breed founders. In my study, I have found that every time the Standard underwent 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.

For me, but I can never forget Olivia Burn’s vivid description written in May 1939:

“…They have to hunt through long grass, forest, 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 during 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 constructed dog. His movement, while swift and tireless, is still a smoothly balanced, easy, and swinging stride. Moving or standing, the Basenji is the picture 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 correct. 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

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