Avongara Basenjis
What are the new African Basenjis, and why are they important?
The American Kennel Club agreed to open the basenji stud book in 1990, allowing the registration of native dogs imported from Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in 1987 and 1988. The argument to open the stud book was given in a presentation by the Basenji Club of America. This presentation is now on-line at the BCOA African Stock Project.
The intention of the importation was to expand the gene pool, and assist in reducing the incidence of genetic disease in basenjis. African basenjis are a little different - they require more socialization, can be more wary of strangers, and tend to bond extremely closely with their owners. They tend to be more obedient and less destructive than domestic Basenjis, and are very easy to live with. Even more than most basenjis, they require a loving permanent home and lots of attention. Health results have been extremely encouraging, and we have great hopes for the contributions of these dogs.
We hope to incorporate the new Africans, both pure African and African crosses, into our breeding program over the years.
The Basenji Club of America African Stock Project
Pictues and information of our Africans are on the Stock Project pages. The links are below:
Avongara Sorcerer's Apprentice (Mickey)
Avongara Practical Magic (EllieMae)
