Basenji Chihuahua Mix: History, Characteristics, Care And Pictures

Basenji Chihuahua mix, also known as Chisenji, results from crossbreeding two dog breeds: Basenji and Chihuahua. Chisenji is a special breed of dog that is affectionate, obedient, intelligent and low maintenance. Therefore, they become an ideal choice for active individuals or families looking for an enjoyable furry companion.

This article will discuss all the facts about this mixed breed, from its physical traits to personality, lifespan, health problems, training, dietary, and grooming requirements, etc.

Reading this article to learn more about the Chihuahua Basenji mix!

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What Is a Basenji Chihuahua Mix?

The Basenji Chihuahua mix combines the Basenji breed and the Chihuahua breed, inheriting the outstanding characteristics of both parent breeds.

These hybrid dogs are small to medium in size with muscular bodies. They are known to be intelligent and vigilant dogs like the Basenji parent but also friendly like the Chihuahua parent. Therefore, they can be good watchdogs and great companions for you.

Besides, Basenji Chihuahua mix dogs are susceptible to specific health conditions, typically Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. The leading cause of this disease is because they have a flat face and short nose.

Quick Facts 

Name:	Basenji Chihuahua mix, Chisenji or Basenji Chi
Height:	8 – 11 inches
Weight:	5 – 24 pounds
Lifespan	10 – 14 years
Colors:	Tan, fawn, white, black, light brown
Temperament:	Loyal, intelligent, energetic, territorial, loving and clingy

Pros and Cons 

Pros	Cons
Loyal and intelligent	Easy to fall into separation anxiety
Good watchdogs	Prone to health issues
Great for hugs	Stubborn

The Origin of Basenji Chihuahua Mix

The Basenji Chihuahua mix is a relatively new hybrid breed, believed to have appeared since the 1990s. Information about the origin of this breed does not have a clear, accurate answer. But to date, this mixed dog is not recognized by A.K.C.

Meanwhile, Basenjis, also known as barkless dogs, were first discovered in West Africa in the 19th century. Later, they were introduced to Europe and almost became extinct because of infection. By the 1930s, they were revived and brought to England and America. Originally, Basenjis were used as hunters and watchdogs over centuries. They have small bodies but are extremely agile, with short fur that helps them cope with hot temperatures.

Chihuahuas have no clear origin, and many people believe that they were first discovered in the Mexican city of Chihuahua in 1950, which is also the origin of their name. But one interesting thing about this breed is that researchers have found artifacts buried with humans since around 100 BC. These show some connection between humans and dogs since ancient times.

What Do Basenji Chihuahua Mix Dogs Look Like?

Appearance Traits

Like other mixed breeds, we do not have a fixed or exact appearance standard for the Chihuahua Basenji mix. Each Chisenji will have different physical characteristics, depending on the dominance they receive from the two parent breeds.

However, Chihuahua Basenji mixes are generally strong dogs with muscular bodies. These small dogs have large heads, short legs, and long, thin, curved tails. They have large, erect ears, large round eyes, short noses, and small lips.

Height & Weight

The Basenji is a medium-sized dog breed, while the Chihuahua is small-sized. Therefore, Chihuahua Basenji mixes usually have a small to medium body size.

These hybrid dogs typically weigh around 5 to 24 pounds and are 8 to 11 inches tall.

Coat Colors

The Basenji has a very short single coat, while the Chihuahua also has a single coat. From there, you can expect your Chihuahua Basenji mixes to have short, single coats. Thanks to this characteristic, they have low care and grooming needs.

Their coat colors will likely include black and tan, white and tan, white and light brown, white and fawn or tri-colored.

Temperament & Personality of Basenji Chihuahua Mix

Chihuahua Basenji mixes are active and playful dogs. They are very affectionate to be close to their owners and can also be clingy.  These hybrid dogs are loyal, devoted, and always ready to protect their family.

However, you must pay attention to them when interacting with children or other animals because Basenji Chi can become aggressive and bite.

What You Should Know to Take Care of Basenji Chihuahua Mix 

Food & Diet

The nutrient requirements of each Basenji Chihuahua mix are different, depending on a variety of factors such as size, weight, age, medical history, coat and skin condition, metabolism and so on.

You should feed your mixed breed high-quality dog ​​food with a reasonable amount of protein.

You can also add wild Alaskan salmon oil or omega-3, which will help improve your dog's coat and skin. Probiotics are also a supplement you should consider for your Basenji Chi because these hybrid dogs are susceptible to a variety of health conditions. In addition, remember to provide your pet with fresh water to keep its body hydrated.

However, you should not let your dog eat freely as the Chihuahua Basenji mix puts on weight quickly. See a veterinarian who will help you determine your dog's specific nutritional needs if possible.

Grooming

Fortunately, Basenji Chihuahua mixes are thin and short. Therefore, these mixed dogs require low grooming.

However, you must brush your Chisenjis at least once a week to limit painfully matted, uncomfortably tangled and out-of-control conditions. Brushing their hair will help remove loose hair while promoting new hair growth.

You don't need to bathe them frequently, but bathing them once a month is essential. You must use shampoo for dogs to remove dirt, hair, and odors.

Their ears need to be cleaned once a week. If their ears are red, swollen, or have a foul odor, you should take them to the doctor for timely treatment because these are signs of infection. Furthermore, you should brush their teeth and trim their nails regularly. 

Note: If you do not know how to groom your dog properly, you should hire a professional manicurist to bathe, brush and trim its nails.

Exercise Needs

Basenji Chihuahua mixes are high-energy dogs, so they have a high need for exercise and mental stimulation.

They will need about 60 minutes of exercise daily, and you should regularly take them for walks, runs, or hikes. These are suitable ways to help them burn excess energy and also help limit their obesity.

You can meet Chisenji's physical and mental exercise requirements in the following ways:

• Teach new tricks
• Take a walk
• Play fetching games
• Play with puzzle toys
• Play frisbee
• Play balloons

Without adequate exercise, they can become aggressive, restless and cause destructive behaviors.

Training

Obedience training is essential for the Basenji Chihuahua mixes. Otherwise, they can become aggressive and challenging to manage. Because they are stubborn, you should use positive reinforcement instead of punishment, scolding, or harsh treatment. You can reward them with treats, praise, and playtime for good behavior, and motivate them to learn and repeat desired actions.

Chihuahua Basenji mix dogs are intelligent and learn very quickly. To ensure you have well-adjusted pets, guide them with the following requirements:

• Train them from a very young age
• Be consistent while training
• Start practicing at home

You should enroll your Basenji Chi dogs in training classes at a very young age.

Health Conditions

Basenji Chi dogs can inherit health problems from their parent breeds. Their small size makes them more susceptible to injury, so you should keep them in a safe and comfortable environment.

Here are common health problems Basenji Chihuahua mixes can encounter:

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Allergy
• Congenital heart disease
• Diabetes
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome
• Epilepsy
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Patellar dislocation

It is impossible to control everything that happens to your dogs, but you can be proactive in caring for their health. If you suspect they have health problems, you should take them to a veterinarian for the best support and advice.

FAQ - Basenji Chihuahua Mix 

How Long Can Basenji Chihuahua Mix Dogs Live?

The average lifespan of the Basenji and Chihuahua mix is ​​approximately 10 to 14 years. You should note that proper care and attention from you and your family would help this furry friend prolong its lifespan.

How Much Does a Basenji Chihuahua Mix Cost?

Chihuahua and Basenji mix prices usually range from $1,500 to $2,500. The price also depends on many factors such as size, weight, health, number of puppies available, their health, etc.

Can Basenji Chihuahua Mix Dogs Be Left alone?

No. These dogs are very attached to their owners, so they will not tolerate being locked up and left alone. They are susceptible to depression, anxiety, and destructive behavior when left alone for long periods.

Final Thought

Basenji Chihuahua mixes are loyal, loving and affectionate dogs towards their owners and families. However, they are attached to their owners, so they will quickly become sad and anxious if left alone for a long time. They are highly energetic and need a lot of physical and mental exercise to burn off excess energy. Without adequate exercise, they can develop destructive behaviors.