Editing Basenji (section)

==Characteristics==
===Appearance===
{{unreferenced|section|date=January 2024}}
[[File:Gaia Basenji.jpg|thumb|Red Basenji with white markings]]
[[File:Basenji pair edit.jpg|thumb|right|Two Basenjis; a tricolour male (left) and a red female (right).]]
[[File:Raskal.jpg|thumb|A Basenji brindle puppy]]
[[File:KinzicaGiotto 02.jpg|thumb|right|Red Basenji]]
[[File:Basenji, Bronco.jpg|thumb|A tricolour Basenji with white markings]]

Basenjis are small, short-haired dogs with erect ears, tightly curled tails and graceful necks. A Basenji's forehead is wrinkled, even more so when it is young or extremely excited. A Basenji's eyes are typically almond-shaped. Basenjis typically weigh about {{convert|20–24|lb|kg|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} and stand {{convert|16–18|in|cm|abbr=on|order=flip}} at the shoulder. They are a square breed, which means they are as long as they are tall with males usually larger than females. Basenjis are athletic dogs, and deceptively powerful for their size.

The FCI standard states that when moving their legs should be: 'carried straight forward with a swift, long, tireless, swinging stride.' Basenjis come in a few different colorations: red, black, tricolor, and brindle, and they all have white feet, chests and tail tips.
===Temperament and behavior===
{{unreferenced|section|date=January 2024}}
The Basenji is alert, energetic, curious and reserved with strangers. The Basenji tends to become emotionally attached to a single human. Basenjis may not get along with non-canine pets. Basenjis dislike wet weather, much like cats, and will often refuse to go outside in any sort of damp conditions. They like to climb, and can easily scale chain wire/link fences.<ref>{{cite web |title=Basenji Standard |url=https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/043g05-en.pdf|date=24 January 2000 |website=Fédération Cynologique Internationale}}</ref>

Basenjis often stand on their hind legs, somewhat like a [[meerkat]], by themselves or leaning on something; this behavior is often observed when the dog is curious about something. Basenjis have a strong prey drive. According to the book ''[[The Intelligence of Dogs]]'', they are the second least trainable dog, when required to do human commands (behind only the [[Afghan Hound]]).{{citation needed|date=January 2024}} Their real intelligence manifests when they are required to actually solve problems for the sake of the dogs' own goals (such as food, or freedom).

Basenjis are highly prey driven and will go after cats and other small animals.