If you have heard of the Basenji before, then you already know what a beautiful dog it is. But, have you ever wondered what kind of Basenji mixes are out there in the world and how they look?
There are many Basenji mixes, in fact – you can mix a Basenji dog with any other dog breed. This means that, in theory, there could be more than 100 Basenji crossbreeds.
But, not every dog breed is mixed with a unique-looking Basenji, and not every mix that already exists is as common or as popular as these 23 Basenji mixes we have prepared for you.
Whether it’s the popularity or the pure beauty of these mixes, they are shown here waiting for you to learn all about them. Who knows, maybe after reading this list, you will decide you want to add a new furry family member to your home.
And, who knows, it just might be one of these 23 most interesting Basenji mixes.
23 Most Interesting Basenji Mixes
Basenji is an ancient dog breed, dating back to the time of the great Egyptian Pharaohs. People call them “barkless dogs” because they simply don’t bark.
Because of the unique anatomy of their larynx, they can yodel, howl, or whine but they cannot bark like other dogs.
Basenjis are purebred dogs bred for hunting purposes, presumably on the shores of the river Nile during the rule of the ancient Egyptian Pharaohs.
Basenjis can even be seen as part of the hieroglyphs on ancient Egyptian tombstones.
But, other people from ancient times used and loved these dogs too. They are so agile and intelligent that the people of the Congo used this dog breed to hunt lions!
They were also the first people to start the more serious breeding program for these dogs.
The Basenji dog was later further developed and AKC (American Kennel Club) standardized in the USA and Europe and, through these actions, this amazing dog breed gained popularity all around the world.
So, it is only natural that we have so many different Basenji mixes today.
Some of them are already popular and some of them are just starting to get introduced to the world. One thing is certain – all of the mixes are incredibly interesting and beautiful in their own way.
They will leave you wondering if you can bring them to your home as a pet.
So, let’s see the list of the 23 most interesting Basenji mixes.
1. German Shepherd Basenji Mix
Photo from:@bimbaland
When you mix these two dog breeds you get a Basenji German Shepherd mix called German Shepenji. The German Shepherd (GSD) is already a well-known guard dog, but the Basenji is not that good at guarding.
But, that doesn’t mean Basenji won’t protect you. On the contrary, they are very loyal and they will protect their family. So, when you combine a GSD and a Basenji what do you get? The best of both: an excellent watchdog, loyal, and fierce.
Common traits:
• Height: around 19 inches
• Weight: around 44 pounds
• Coat type: double, medium, or short
• Shedding: yes
• Barking: yes
In general, this crossbreed is larger than Basenji but smaller than a German Shepherd dog. Also, they do bark, so you might want to note that down if you are living in a residential area that doesn’t have a lot of tolerance for barking and howling dogs.
Another thing to note is a possibility of a health issue called hip dysplasia.
2. Boxer Basenji Mix
Photo from: @nashtheadventurer_
This is a similarly interesting crossbreed to the GSD Basenji mix and it is called a Boxerji. The interesting part about this popular Basenji mix comes from the fact these two dog breeds have completely opposite physical characteristics.
From head to toe, these two breeds are different. But, they have a few temperamental traits in common that, combined together, give the best results. The Boxerji is an amazing watchdog.
Both dog parent breeds are very loyal and brave and will stand their ground whatever comes to the gates of their home.
If you want a family pet that will certainly protect you and look stunning at the same time – the Boxer Basenji mix is the right choice.
We say stunning looking because of the Boxer’s many coat color variations that mixed with Basenji give stunning results.
Common traits:
• Height: around 19 inches
• Weight: around 44 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: yes
Another interesting fact is that both dog breeds tend to groom themselves as cats do – they lick their fur in order to keep it clean.
So, even though this mix will shed moderately, grooming won’t be much of a hassle. Regular weekly brushing is perfectly fine.
3. Beagle Basenji Mix
Photo from:@misterbentleychronicles
This is a crossbreed dog of two purebred hound dogs and its name is the Baseagle. When you mix a Beagle, which is a famous hunting dog, with the lion-hunting Basenji, you know you will get a mixed dog that has a high hunting instinct.
A Baseagle is one of those Basenji mixes that will need a lot of proper early socialization because of their high prey drive. But, don’t worry – they are worth it.
Common traits:
• Height: up to 16 inches
• Weight: less than 24 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: yes
Be prepared for a lot of sniffing, ground hole checking, and squirrel searching when you take a Baseagle for a walk in the park.
You cannot easily turn off their hunting nature.
4. Chihuahua Basenji Mix
Photo from:@theweenandthebeans
The wonderful Chisenji or Basenji Chi is an adorable crossbreed dog. They are larger than the average Chihuahua, but they can surely inherit the aggressive trait from their Chihuahua parent.
But, everything can be changed with early socialization, especially starting from day one of the puppy’s social life.
Common traits:
• Height: 11 to 16 inches
• Weight: 8 to 14 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short
• Shedding: light
• Barking: yes
So, what can we expect from the mix? They will certainly bark! But, as for the size, you will get a dog that is smaller than an average Basenji and quite larger than an average Chihuahua (unless you have a fat Chihuahua that can weigh more than the usual 9 pounds).
But, in general, a Basenji Chi is a small dog with low shedding traits and a long lifespan, especially if it inherits the Chihuahua lifespan genes.
5. Shiba Inu Basenji Mix
Photo from:@todd_thefoxdog
This is a beautiful example of one of the Basenji mixes, especially because both Shiba Inu and Basenji are similar in height and weight, which means that their crossbreed will have proportional body parts.
Also, both Shiba Inu and Basenji have uniquely curled tails over their backs. That means their crossbreed called Shibenji will also have a curled tail. They are also of similar ear shapes, even though Shiba Inus have more rounded and fluffier ears.
Common traits:
• Height: up to 17 inches
• Weight: up to 24 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, short
• Shedding: moderate to high
• Barking: low
You won’t hear a lot of barking from this crossbreed. They will tend to yodel or howl, which is typical for a Basenji. But, like all other Basenji mixes, they can bark, it just depends on the other dog parent breed if they are going to bark often or not.
Also, because of the Shiba Inu shedding trait, the crossbreed offspring can have a double coat and exhibit a stronger shedding trait.
6. Poodle Basenji Mix
Photo from:@tatittytata
The name of this crossbreed is Basenjipoo, and they belong to the world of Poodle mixes called Doodles. The wonderful fact about this Basenji Poodle mix dog is that it is hypoallergenic.
Because the Poodle is a low-shedding and hypoallergenic dog breed, and Basenji sheds minimally as well, their offspring will have the same traits.
Common traits:
• Height: up to 17 inches
• Weight: 40 to 55 pounds
• Coat type: double, curly or wavy, long or short
• Shedding: low
• Barking: moderate to high
The coat type and the coat color of the Basenjipoo depend on the Poodle coat colors and the Poodle coat type. That is because the Poodle has a long and curly coat with a lot of color variations.
But, the puppies will usually inherit the Basenji coat color markings.
7. Whippet Basenji Mix
Photo from:@kobe_the_whipenji
A Whipenji is a Basenji mix breed with slender looks and a high prey drive. They can also have high energy levels that can become a problem if we do not take care of their exercise needs.
Whippenji is one of the best Basenji mixes, in my humble opinion. It comes from the fact they are so easily adaptable to apartment living, even though both dog parent breeds are hound dogs.
But, any responsible dog owner must provide the proper amount of daily exercise for the Whippenji in order for this amazing crossbreed to stay healthy and happy.
Common traits:
• Height: up to 20 inches
• Weight: 23 to 33 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short
• Shedding: low
• Barking: low
Whippenji is a low-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming and health because of the same qualities of its dog parent breeds. Of course, they can have some health issues as well, but they are generally a healthy crossbreed.
8. Pomeranian Basenji Mix
The Pomeranian dog belongs to the toy group of dogs, according to the AKC. That means their mixed offspring can also inherit the small height gene. But, because the Benji is not a toy dog, the Pomeranian Basenji mix can be much taller than expected.
They don’t have an official crossbreed name, but you can call them a Pomerenji. The important thing is that we know the temperamental traits this crossbreed dog can have.
They will be one of the most inquisitive Basenji mixes, with a curious and intelligent look in their eyes.
Also, because of their Pomeranian side, they can be very affectionate towards their family, but they can be reserved with strangers at the same time. That makes them a great watchdog.
• Common traits:
• Height: less than 20 inches
• Weight: less than 15 pounds
• Coat type: double and short
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate to high
Even though the Pomeranian is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, when you mix it with the Basenji dog breed, their puppies can be of different sizes even in the same litter. The most common height is up to 19 inches.
There can be exceptions, of course, with some puppies being more than 20 or less than 10 inches – although the latter is quite rare.
9. Golden Retriever Basenji Mix
Photo from:@wrigley_retrievermix
The Golden Retriever and Basenji mix is also one of the most famous Basenji mixes in the US because of the Golden Retriever’s popularity and availability. The name is Golsenji or Goldsenji, but it’s not the official name of this crossbreed.
This mix will inherit the affection and loyalty for their family from both parent breed dogs. You will see the same gorgeous puppy eyes from the Golden Retriever that won hearts all around the world.
But, at the same time, they will be quick to jump and chase small animals around the yard or in the park.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 22 inches
• Weight: 30 to 50 pounds
• Coat type: double and medium
• Shedding: high
• Barking: low
Because the Golden Retriever is one of the best family dog breeds, such traits will be transferred to its offspring. Also, both breeds are not as vocal, so you won’t have to worry about a lot of barking. Maybe a howl or two.
10. Great Dane Basenji Mix
This mix is called Great Dasenji. The Great Dane is a very large dog so you can expect your Great Dasenji to be a big dog, too.
Because both dogs were originally bred as hunting dogs, the hunting instincts will be strong in their crossbreed dog, as well.
Even though this mix can look scary, they are not aggressive types of dogs. A Great Dasenji is an easy-going and friendly dog.
Common traits:
• Height: 22 to 33 inches
• Weight: 66 to 90 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short
• Shedding: medium
• Barking: medium
Another thing they can inherit is the Great Dane’s floppy ears. If this happens, you can either crop ears as they do it with a Great Dane, or you can leave them floppy.
Also, when you have a large dog like a Great Dasenji, the best option for both you and the dog to be happy is to have a yard where a dog can run around.
They are adaptable, so if you have to put them in an apartment, they’ll be OK. But, that’s not the best option for this dog breed.
11. Siberian Husky Basenji Mix
Photo from:@jennamearing
If you are looking for a dog that is an independent thinker with high energy levels and excellent howling techniques – the Sibendji is the dog for you. You can be certain this mix will yodel and howl.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 23 inches
• Weight: 30 to 55 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, smooth, medium or short
• Shedding: high
• Barking: howling
Even though Siberian Huskies don’t bark, they do howl – a lot! So, your Sibendji will have these traits, too. Also, depending on the Siberian Husky eye color, they can inherit heterochromia, a condition in which each eye is a different color.
Overall, this mix is the most mischievous mix of all. The Sibendji is stubborn and intelligent, and training them will require a lot of patience.
12. Pit Bull Terrier Basenji Mix
Photo from:@amandalynn1987
When you mix one of the most popular dog breeds in the US and the ancient Basenji, the outcome has to be incredible. And, it is – the Pitsenji is an incredible crossbreed with great traits.
They are loyal and brave. With a Pitsenji, you will understand the true meaning of the phrase “a dog is a man’s best friend.”
Common traits:
• Height: less than 25 inches
• Weight: less than 60lb
• Coat type: single-coated, short
• Shedding: high
• Barking: moderate
A Pitbull is a bigger dog parent and, depending on the size and growth of a Pitbull, the Pitsenji can be anywhere from 30 to 55 pounds. Sometimes, these numbers can be lower or higher.
They will also shed moderately, but because their coat type is short, grooming won’t be a problem.
13. American Eskimo Basenji Mix
The mix is called Eskenji and it is highly affectionate and very good with children of all ages. This is a true family pet that can go well in all living spaces, but requires everyday physical and mental stimulation.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 19 inches
• Weight: 24 to 35 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, smooth, medium or short
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate
The offspring of the Basenji American Eskimo mix can inherit two types of coat. The difference can be present even between the puppies of the same litter.
As for the coat color, they can inherit the white coat color from the AED, and any other coat color variation from a Basenji.
14. Labrador Retriever Basenji Mix
Photo from:@kristi_notsoboring
A friendly Labrador and intelligent Basenji crossed together will give a Labrasenji – the outgoing mix always ready for a play or a walk in the park.
Of course, every dog is unique and it doesn’t have to fit into this description. These are common traits, but deviations are always possible.
The Labrasenji is a crossbreed that has the highest adaptability and openness to strangers than all other Basenji mixes. This comes from the great and friendly Labrador Retriever.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 23 inches
• Weight: 30 to 75 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, short
• Shedding: high
• Barking: moderate
Besides the standard Labrador Retriever, there is a miniature Labrador Retriever that can produce Basenji mixes in smaller sizes. But, these mixes are rare.
You will also have to groom your Labrasenji at least twice a week because they inherit a shedding trait from the Labrador Retriever.
15. Cocker Spaniel Basenji Mix
Photo from:@pepper101221
These Basenji mixes love to explore, they love their owner, and they can get on great with other dogs and animals if you properly socialize them at an early age.
The Cocker Spaniel is a sporting dog that passes on their liveliness to their offspring, including our Basenji mix.
Common traits:
• Height: 15 to 17 inches
• Weight: 24 to 34 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, short or medium
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate
The Basenji Cocker Spaniel mix will usually inherit a medium-length coat type. The coat color variations are numerous. It can be a variation of any Cocker Spaniel coat color or a variation of the Basenji coat color.
They will also moderately shed and bark, but because of their size and adaptability – these Basenji mixes are great for apartment living.
16. Australian Cattle Dog Basenji Mix
Photo from:@parker_the_puppers
These Basenji mixes are very energetic and loyal dogs. Because of the herding genes coming from the Australian Cattle Dog and hunting genes from the Basenji, make sure you provide enough regular exercise for your Basenji Heeler.
If you are not an outgoing type or you prefer lounging on a sofa, this Basenji mix might not be the right choice for you.
Common traits:
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 24 to 50 pounds
Coat type: double or single-coated, short
Shedding: moderate
Barking: low
If you get yourself a Basenji Heeler dog, you are getting one of the most intelligent Basenji mixes.
Even though they are smart, their stubbornness – which is a typical characteristic of the Basenji dog breed – can make them problematic when it comes to their training.
17. Akita Basenji Mix
Photo from:@lepetluxe
From hikes to walks in the park, these Basenji mixes will be by your side. There are two types of Akita – the American and Japanese – and there is a hybrid dog called a Miniature Akita, as well.
You can mix any of these types of Akitas with a Basenji, but the most common type is the American Akita. But, when it comes to size, it doesn’t matter which Akita you mix with the Basenji because both Akita types are of similar height and weight.
Common traits:
Height: 20 to 25 inches
Weight: 40 to 100 pounds
Coat type: double or single-coated, short or medium
Shedding: moderate
Barking: low
This Basenji mix is not good with other dogs or other pets. They need thorough socialization starting in puppyhood to teach them other dogs and pets are friends.
This is an important trait you need to consider if you plan on getting yourself an Akita Basenji mix.
18. Italian Greyhound Basenji Mix
Photo from:@emefdevine
Do you want a sleek, fast dog that has incredible hunting instincts? If so, this Basenji mix is for you to take home – or even better, on a field to run around. The name of this mix is the Greysenji.
This is not a big dog, but a very fast one. They are true hunting dogs and, as such, will need a lot of socialization and training to teach them not to chase anything small that moves. The Greysenji is a playful dog.
They will also need a lot of affection from you.
Common traits:
• Height: 15 to 17 inches
• Weight: 14 to 24 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated and short
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate
Even though this Basenji mix is a smaller mix compared to other Basenji mixes, that doesn’t mean they don’t need exercise or to go on a walk in the park. Depending on the dog’s health and age, you can adjust how often you walk your dog.
19. Welsh Corgi Basenji Mix
Photo from:@justsittingaround
Because of their popularity, we will talk about the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Basenji mix called Corsengi. This dog crossbreed is very affectionate and loyal. They are half herding half hunting dogs, so they will have high energy levels.
They are one of the most adorable, adaptable, and playful types of Basenji mixes.
Common traits:
Height: 12 to 17 inches
Weight: 24 to 30 pounds
Coat type: double or single-coated, short
Shedding: high
Barking: moderate to high
The excellent trait of Corgi Basenji mixes is that they are easily adaptable to any living space. They can be perfectly happy in an apartment or on a farm, as long as they have their daily walks and their daily playtime.
20. Jack Russell Terrier Basenji Mix
Photo from:@themarranclan
The Jack Russell Basenji mix is another lively and playful type of Basenji mixes. They get their inquisitive nature and alertness from both parent dog breeds. They are affectionate and will get on well with other dogs and other pets, too.
Common traits:
• Height: 12 to 17 inches
• Weight: 15 to 22 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short, wiry or straight
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate to high
People often assume that Jack Russell Terriers are hypoallergenic… they are not. And, even though the Basenji dog breed has a low shedding trait, the Basenji and Jack Russell mixes will definitely be moderate shedders.
21. Border Collie Basenji Mix
When you combine an intelligent Collie with an already intelligent Basenji, you get a mixed dog that will do math with you! No, they won’t do that, but they will be amazing to work with.
But, forget about peaceful nights and days. These Basenji mixes tend to bark, due to their barking Border Collie parents. Also, get ready for barks combined with occasional howling and yodeling.
But, it is all worth it when you consider all the incredible traits this mix possesses.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 22 inches
• Weight: 26 to 52 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, wavy or straight, medium
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: high
Once again, Basenji mixes cannot be easily predicted. There are general physical traits that are most common, but the best solution is to check the dog’s parents.
22. Brittany Basenji Mix
Brittany Basenji mixes are bright and friendly. They are loyal, protective, and great hunters, and they can go great with families that have children if they are properly socialized from an early age.
The Brittenji is an interesting crossbreed with high energy levels.
The high energy level is a characteristic of all Brittany mixes, so it is one thing that you can be certain that your Brittenji will have. Don’t forget that the Basenji is the same.
That means you shouldn’t get a Brittany Basenji mix dog if you don’t have time to give them enough mental and physical daily stimulation.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 20 inches
• Weight: 24 to 35 pounds
• Coat type: double or single-coated, wavy or straight, short
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate
The Brittany Basenji mix will usually inherit the wavy and double coat type from the Brittany. But, don’t worry – they do not require special grooming. Weekly brushing is enough to keep the fur healthy and beautiful looking.
23. Irish Setter Basenji Mix
The Irish Setter Basenji mixes will captivate you with their gorgeous coat color. This mix will be alert and active.
These traits come from the fact that this crossbreed dog has hunter genes. Both Basenji and Irish Setter were used as hunting dogs for many years.
Just like the parents, the Irish Setter Basenji mix will need a lot of exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation.
The best option would be to have a yard where they can run around on their own, but if not, walking, hiking, or a game with your dog will keep them happy.
Common traits:
• Height: 17 to 25 inches
• Weight: 30 to 65 pounds
• Coat type: single-coated, short or medium
• Shedding: moderate
• Barking: moderate
If they inherit the silky coat type from the Irish Setter, these Irish Setter Basenji mixes will need moderate grooming at least two times a week to avoid tangles or mats and to keep the silky fur healthy.
See Also: The 10 Best Irish Setter Breeders In The US
The Conclusion
There are many Basenji mixes for you to check and see if they are the right dog choice for you.
From small Basenji mixes (crossed with a Chihuahua) to large (crossed with a Great Dane), and all the middle-sized Basenji mixes, we are sure you will find the right one for you.
Basenji mixes will usually moderately shed and they will be able to bark and not just yodel or howl. But, in general, all will inherit a piece of Basenji that will make them gorgeous and incredible pets.
This was a list of the 23 most interesting Basenji mixes that will win your heart either by beauty, wits, playfulness, or hunting ability.
Whichever dog breed you choose as your favorite, remember that, no matter how unique every dog is, they all need our protection, care, and love.
That means we shouldn’t just feed them, but play with them, take them to regular vet checks, and give them cuddles and lots of love.