The Basenji, known as the 'Barkless Dog', is not just unique for its looks but also its temperament. In this article, we'll take a look at 15 dog breeds that closely resemble the Basenji in terms of physical characteristics and temperament.

So let's dive in!

Characteristics Of a Basenji

Before we dive into the list, let's first understand the characteristics of a Basenji.

Originating from Central Africa, Basenjis are medium-sized dogs characterized by their short hair, erect ears, and tightly curled tails. They have a distinctive, muscular body structure. However, their most notable trait is their inability to bark. Instead, they produce a unique yodel-like sound, known as a 'barroo', which is quite unlike any other dog sound.

Basenjis are also super intelligent, independent, and affectionate with their owners. They are known for their curiosity and love for play. Basenjis are also known for their cleanliness, often grooming themselves like cats.

Now, with these traits in mind, let's explore some breeds that share these similarities with the Basenji.

Dogs That Resemble Basenji

1. Pharaoh Hound

The Pharaoh Hound, like the Basenji, carries an air of royal dignity. These dogs have a strong, athletic build and are known for their speed and agility. Their sleek, short coat, pricked ears, and expressive eyes bear a striking resemblance to the Basenji. However, unlike Basenjis, Pharaoh Hounds are capable of barking, but they are generally quiet dogs.

2. Ibizan Hound

Second on the list is the Ibizan Hound, with its elegant stature and keen expression, which shares physical traits with the Basenji. Like the Basenji, the Ibizan Hound has a short coat, erect ears, and a love for exploration and play. Both breeds are intelligent, independent, and can be a bit reserved around unfamiliar people.

3. Whippet

Though not as similar to the Basenji as some other breeds on this list, the Whippet shares the Basenji's elegant, muscular frame. The Whippet's deep chest and lean physique are reminiscent of the Basenji's, and their short coats are similar in texture. Both breeds are affectionate with their families but can be reserved with strangers.

4. Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound, like the Basenji, has a sleek, muscular body and a short, smooth coat. Their tight skin and fine bones give them a similar appearance to the Basenji, and their affectionate and playful nature makes them a great alternative for potential Basenji owners.

5. Harrier

The Harrier's overall body structure, with its strong build and a medium size, is similar to the Basenji's. Their short, dense coats and expressive eyes also add to the resemblance. Both breeds are known for their stamina, speed, and agility.

6. Podenco Canario

Podenco Canario, a rare breed from the Canary Islands, shares several characteristics with the Basenji. They are both independent and intelligent breeds with a strong prey drive. Their short coats, muscular bodies, and pricked ears make them physically similar to the Basenji.

7. Cirneco of Etna

The Cirneco of Etna, a Sicilian breed, shares a lot of physical traits with the Basenji. Both breeds have a slender, athletic build, a short coat, and erect ears. Like the Basenji, the Cirneco of Etna is known for its intelligence, agility, and playful nature.

8. New Guinea Singing Dog

As the name suggests, the New Guinea Singing Dog is known for its unique vocalization, similar to the Basenji. They also share physical characteristics, including a medium-sized, muscular body, a short coat, and erect ears.

9. Greyhound

While larger than the Basenji, the Greyhound shares the Basenji's sleek, muscular body and short coat. Both breeds are known for their speed and agility and can be reserved and independent.

10. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher, while much smaller than the Basenji, shares its short, sleek coat, muscular build, and erect ears. Like the Basenji, Miniature Pinschers are intelligent, independent, and have a penchant for exploration.

11. Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback bears a strong resemblance to the Basenji with its short coat, pricked ears, and muscular body. Both breeds are known for their independence, intelligence, and love for their families.

12. American Foxhound

The American Foxhound, with its muscular build and medium size, shares physical similarities with the Basenji. Their short, dense coats and expressive eyes also add to the resemblance. Both breeds are known for their stamina, speed, and agility.

13. Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz's fluffy coat might not immediately suggest a resemblance to the sleek Basenji, but their size, erect ears, and expressive faces are similar. Both breeds are known for their intelligence and independence.

14. Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier, while smaller than the Basenji, shares its energetic disposition, curiosity, and intelligence. Physically, they both have short, dense coats and pricked ears.

15. Miniature Fox Terrier

The Miniature Fox Terrier, with its small size and short coat, has a physical appearance that is reminiscent of the Basenji. Both breeds are known for their playful and inquisitive nature.

The Bottom Line

So to sum up, while all these breeds share similarities with the Basenji, each breed has its own unique traits and characteristics. If you're looking for a Basenji-like dog, consider these breeds as potential alternatives. However, remember that every dog, irrespective of its breed, is unique and requires love, care, and understanding.

Happy dog-hunting!

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