How much does a quality Basenji cost?

Cost can vary by breeders. Generally a puppy costs about $600-700 for a companion only. A show puppy costs a little more and has added conditions to the sale.  Responsible breeders will require a spay /neuter contract on all animals not sold as show dogs. Many breeders also have adults that are older puppies or young adults they are looking to place in permanent homes too.  The adults can vary in cost with many variables, but also have many benefits, such as training and you have skipped right over the adolescent problem period and that is worth its weight in Gold!

How long will I have to wait to get a quality Basenji?

Wait time for a puppy can vary, but they are worth the wait.   Basenji litters are usually 4-6 puppies per litter.  A responsible breeder will be keeping something from each litter to show. Therefore there are not a lot of puppies available.  The best thing to do is get on a waiting list with a responsible breeder.  Most breeders’ ask for a deposit to be placed on the waiting list.

When are Basenji available for sale?

Most puppies are conceived in late fall/early winter, then whelped two months later.   Basenjis only come into "season" once per year, in late summer or sometime in the fall.  Puppies go home between 8 and 10 weeks of age. They need to stay with their mothers and litter mates until then for socialization. Responsible breeders will not let puppies go home before that.   Remember that there are always young adults available and make wonderful companions.

I have done my research, now I want to meet a Basenji.  How do I do that?

Call around to breeders in your area.  Visit the Basenji Club of America website and look under Breeder Referral.   Visit many breeders, if possible, to compare living arrangements and cleanliness.  If visits aren’t possible, talk with the breeder or use the powerful tool, email to get to know them.   Get references.   Inquire as to whether the breeder shows their dogs, titles they have acquired, time in the breed and look at a lot of photos.   Do your homework and visit many breeders, this is a 15 year commitment to this dog, be sure you get the right one.

How can I be assured that I am getting a healthy Basenji?

Work with a breeder that does the testing required.  Insist on seeing proof that the eyes have been tested; ask for the CERF and OFA papers for the parents of a puppy you buy. Also, a responsible breeder will give you some sort of a health and temperament guarantee on your puppy.

Home  Clubs  History   Whippet Gallery    Basenji Gallery  Puppies    Announcements   Fun Page  Links  Contact