| Height | 17 inches (male), 16 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 24 pounds (male), 22 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Independent / Smart / Poised [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Central Africa [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 92 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Basenjis are energetic, inquisitive, and very active. They require lots of regular exercise to keep them from becoming bored. Boredom can lead to destructive behavior. [1]
Grooming
Basenjis are fastidious creatures. Their short coat is a breeze to take care of, generally requiring no more than a quick once-over with a soft-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove every week. Brushing distributes skin oils throughout the coat to help keep it healthy and looking its best. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Basenji are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen for health disorders such as hypothyroidism, a type of inflammatory bowel disease called IPSID and canine hip dysplasia. Gene tests are available to identify carriers of Fanconi syndrome, a kidney disorder, as well as progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA; such tests allow breeders to plan breedings that will not produce those diseases. As with all breeds, a Basenji's ears should be checked regularly, and the teeth should be brushed often. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Thyroid Evaluation, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Basenji) (PRA) - DNA Test, Fanconi's Syndrome, Paradoxic glucosuria - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Basenji in 1944. [1]
- It ranked No. 92 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 87 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “The Barkless Dog.” [1]
- The AKC lists Central Africa as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Basenjis live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-14 years.
How big does a Basenji get?
AKC breed information lists height 17 inches (male), 16 inches (female) and weight 24 pounds (male), 22 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Basenji?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Basenji, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.