This is par for the course for Basenjis. They think they are bad a**es, like to intimidate with the growling etc. Most of the time, they back off when challenged.

No. Most dogs will get pissed off when you steal their food that's what's most likely happening here.

Basenjis are pack animals with instincts closer to wolves than more domesticated dogs. To a basenji pack order is EVERYTHING and must be established first. They also use exaggerated aggression displays to avoid actual conflict, but make no mistake, they will not back down from a fight unless made to do so by an alpha. In their native lands of central Africa they are used to hunt leopards and lions. As an owner of a basenji (11 years) I studied them intensely so to better understand this incredible canine that claimed us as her native own.

​@@carolynracine6380 No. As a responsible basenji caretaker you must establish a positive leadership role and intervene when this type of resource aggression comes up. Basenji are a very ancient pariah breed and require positive handling and boundaries, or they will become more aggressive and dominate the household. These are not first timer dogs. You must be at least a bit smarter than the basenji in front of you, and not assume this is "par for the course". Really uneducated thinking. Yes, they make a lot of noise, but this in particular is food aggression. You have to know the difference. If left unchecked this will only get worse. Many basenji puppies get rehoused or relinquish ownership due to escalating aggressive behaviour. You must know the dog in front of you. A basenji will never be a golden retriever, pug, husky, etc etc... Your "par for the course" comment seems like someone who doesn't understand positive training or how to understand dog behaviour.

@@mmgross144 Correct! This isn't a behaviour to ignore. As the alpha leader, one must intervene in order to curb this aggressive behaviour before it escalates. I can't tell you how many basenji owners over the years I've met who just think it's 'par for the course". Yes, but no. Yes, they have their ancient pariah characteristics. but no, One must be the leader and through positive discipline educate their basenji to curb this behaviour before it becomes a huge issue. It takes extra training, but you cannot be lazy with basenjis or they will know they are smarter than you and take over.

@@adamgross8299 something in Bono's voice when he sang the elongated Naaaaaaaame would set my Colonel singing. He never reacted to any other music. Even though I often did play Echo & The Bunnymen.

I was told they're an ancient breed, much closer in lineage to the wolf. So they think independently. Mine only responds to sound .. the fridge door opening or the food bowl rattling. 🐶 He follows my other dog's (non-Basenj) actions, so I can get his co-operation that way.

Seems yours has you well trained. And actually dislikes you.

Mine hated rain and the pool. Took him to the beach 1 time and he surprisingly enjoyed the water on the shore.

Obviously not a true bark. They make this sound after hearing other dogs bark alot and are trying to copy them.

They don't bark, they howl and can make other weird sounds. Although they can imitate a barking dog after hearing the dog bark. I've heard that in person.

Yes , too long an straight

Do good research before getting a Basenji.

They are quiet and clean (non-shedding) and originally from the Congo, so do better with warm temperature. Very independent-minded, so think 'cat' when it comes to training & companionship. I love their unique breed & personality.

A Basenji is not for just anyone. Make sure you know what you're getting yourself into. For instance if you're going to be away at work all day, the basenji will howl and whine the entire time.