Basenji Buyers Guide

The American Kennel Club is the largest registry of dogs in the United States. Registration of a dog denotes the dogs registered name and assigned registration number, breed, sex, color, date whelped, the register names of the sire and dam; their registration numbers and stud book reference, name of the breeder, and name of the registered owner and their address. The accuracy of the document is dependant on the integrity of the breeder filing the litter registration application. Due to the high exposure of AKC events and activities, breeder involved are more knowledgeable of AKC requirements and have a greater incentive to maintain accurate records in regards to registration. Accurate records are required by the AKC for all breeders, please report irregularities in registration to the AKC.

There is a widely held belief that AKC or AKC PAPERS and quality are one and the same. This is not true. AKC is only a registry body. It in no way indicates the quality or state of health of the dog. Quality in the sense of show quality is determined by many factors including the dog s health, physical condition, temperament, ability to move and appearance.

Breeders breeding show stock are trying to produce animals that closely resembles the description of perfection described in the breed standard. Many people breed their dogs with no concern for the qualitative demands of the breed standard. When this occurs repeatedly over several generations, the animals, while still pure-breed can be of extremely low quality.

Is the Basenji or the litter registered with the AKC ?

If yes, ask to see the registration documents before purchasing the Basenji. Registered litters have a blue application form for registration for each puppy. Registered Basenjis have a registration document with a transfer of ownership application on the back side.

On occasion the breeder/owner may have not received the litter registration for a litter or the transfer of a registration prior to offering a Basenji for sale. Require a written statement with the name of the breeder; their address and phone number, the registered name of the sire and dam; their registration numbers, the color and sex of the Basenji, the whelped date of the litter, a description of the Basenji s markings. Request the names; their addresses, and phone numbers of the owners of the sire and dam, if not owned by the breeder. Statement should include the date when the application or transfer of registration was made. Review the statement, and verify the application with the AKC if any questions. Call the owners of the sire and dam if not owned by the breeder.

If yes, but at an additional fee or increase price for the Basenji. Do not buy the Basenji. AKC prohibits this practice, report seller to the AKC.

If no, ask why?

Are the Sire and Dam registered?

It is common practice for a breeder to with hold registration documents to enforce sale conditions of a dog. Most commonly, a spay or neuter requirement for dogs which the breeder believes is not suitable for breeding. Should the seller give a explanation which accuses the breeder or previous owner of with holding the registration documents for an additional fee or unreasonable conditions, try to obtain the name of the previous owner or breeder, and phone number if possible. Call and verify the explanation. Report any registration irregularities to the AKC. If your only able to obtain a name or a kennel name, give Jumoke Basenjis a call. We appreciate any information which will help maintain the breeds overall quality.

We do not recommend buying an unregistered Basenji.

Northwest Basenji Connection