With its distinct traits, including a barkless nature and catlike grooming habits, the Basenji needs special grooming habits for it to stay healthy and beautiful. This manual offers necessary grooming and nail care guidelines specifically written for the owners of the Basenjis.
These are the most crucial habits for maintaining your Basenji’s best appearance and good health.
Primary grooming habits:
Basenjis are low-maintenance keepers when it comes to grooming since their short coat does not need much attention.
A weekly brushing with a soft-bristled brush or hound glove will remove loose hair and distribute skin oils for a healthy, shiny coat. You might need daily brushing during the shedding season (spring and fall) to control the excess hair.
Bathing Your Basenji
In spite of their catlike reputation for being finicky, Basenjis do require the occasional bath.
Prevent over-bathing by bathing them no more than every three months or when visibly dirty to keep their coat from losing its natural oils. Use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly to prevent any remaining traces from irritating their skin.
Nail care basics:
Keeping Basenji’s nails trimmed is essential for their health. Long nails can be uncomfortable for them and also interfere with their walking. Clip their nails at least monthly or whenever their nails are clicking on hard floors. Use a good pair of dog nail clippers and be careful not to clip into the quick as it can cause bleeding.
Ear cleaning regimen
Basenjis also have erect ears, which are generally not as troublesome as the ears found in breeds with floppy ears but need to be examined and cleaned regularly.
Gently clean the outer ear with a damp cloth or with a vet-approved ear cleaner every week.
This will remove any dirt buildup and also eliminate the risk of infection.
Dental Hygiene Advice:
Dental care is as essential for your Basenji as it is for any other dog.
Dogs must be brushed two or three times weekly with toothpaste specially made for canine use. Brushing prevents the accumulation of tartar, gum disease, and bad breath.
Developing dental care habits early in life will get them used to the process.
