Basenji Club of Cincinnati

Four Acceptable Colors of the Basenji

• Red and White
• Black and White
• Brindle and White
• Black, Tan and White, also known as Tri

Basenjis come in four acceptable colors. Angel the Basenji pictured above is the "Classic" red and white. This color is the most recognizable, and hence the most popular.

Magic's color is the sofisticated, black tie affair, also known as the Black and White version of the Basenji. The amount of white on your basenji is your own personal preference. All basenjis must have a white tipped tail, a white chest, and at least four white toes (on all four feet). Facial markings and white on the neck are optional.

Brindle is the newest color to be accepted by the breed. This color was brought back from Africa about 23 years ago, when several breeders went to Africa to acquire new stock (to widen the gene pool). This was a new color that had never been seen outside of Africa. Thanks to those concerned breeders, we not only have a healthier gene pool but we also have a new color. Since then the Brindle revolution was born.

Peaches pictured above is known as a Tri-Colored Basenji. Technically there are two types of Tri-Colored Basenjis. One is a "Clear" Tri, like Peaches.

The other one is called "Fula," like Chopper pictured above. The only difference is the markings on the cheeks of the Basenji. Clear Tri's have no barring (black separating the tan on the dogs cheeks), and Fula's have barring (black coloring separating the tan on the cheeks) of the basenji. This isn't considered a fault when showing the dog in the ring, it's just a personal preference.

As you can tell, it is very hard to see the difference unless you are looking for it. To the untrained eye, Deano looks like he would be a "Clear" Tri, when actually he's a "Fula" Tri. Notice that the barring is easily seen in Chopper, who mind you is a Champion. So the "Fula" doesn't mean that you can't finish your Basenji.

For any questions or problems you are experiencing with this unique little hound or for information on joining the club, feel free to send an email. Our Web Mistress is owned by six Basenjis including the two red and whites pictured above. If she can't answer your questions she will send you to someone who can.

Other Basenji Related Sites

Basenji Club of America
African Stock Project
American Kennel Club
Bellehound Basenjis
HiCotn Basenjis
The Basenji Magazine
Basenji Companions
Basenji Photo Album
HiCotn Originals Embrodiary & More
MB-F
Onofrio
CCK9s New Leash on Life
Basenji Rescue & Transport (BRAT)

Email: BasenjiClubCinti@aol.com