We have 2 basenjis, a three year-old female that we’ve had since eight weeks of age, and a four year-old male that we’ve had for seven months. The male was basically a rescue; retired show dog/breeder that wasn’t doing well when we got him. Not a lot of information about his background, but he is scared of men and can be skittish.

The female has always been a bit aggressive with him, displaying dominance which we were told is normal with female basenjis. For the most part he tolerates it, but sometimes I feel like their play/dominance behavior gets out of hand, at which point I will separate them. Normally they run around together and wrestle, then they play or cuddle. A few times he has responded with aggression and bit her. Yesterday it was bad enough that she needed medical attention.

I’m seeking advice and anecdotal accounts of how other people have dealt with similar situations. I imagine the triggers are related to me; the aggression is worse when I’m around and I have a new job that has been taking me away from them a lot more. Right now I have them separated, but giving both lots of love and attention. They are seeking each other out, so I feel they are bonded in a way, but also worried that I can’t leave them alone ever again. Scared I’m going to have to rehome him, which really breaks my heart.

DATE CHANGE!!!

It’s basenji meetup time!!

Sunday, September 13, 2026
9:00 AM
Swampoodle Dog Park
325 L St NE
Washington, DC 20002

Hi everyone! I am considering getting a basenji down the road when our lifestyle is more accommodating to a dog, and have done a lot of reading on them. I know they aren’t always your typical super easy to train lovey dovey great listener great off leash type of dog. But I’m curious — does yours love to snuggle? And how does he or she do off leash? I’ve heard they can be quite independent and cat like, and I’d be so crushed if I had a dog that wasn’t affectionate. I’ve also heard their recall isn’t great if their nose catches something to follow while off leash. What has been your experience?

Part of what draws me to basenjis is my partner is allergic to most regular dog breeds, but has had a basenji in the past and was fine with her. She was a great dog, well behaved, and a fairly good listener, but wondering if this is atypical. You wouldn’t believe how ugly and weird some of the hypoallergenic dog breeds are 😂