Essential Equipment Every Basenji Owner Needs to Have - Part IV, Grooming & Health & Mouth Care
- Meir Shilo
- Nov 5, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 1
Basenjis require minimal grooming thanks to their short, fine coat and inherent cleanliness. Much like cats, they are obsessed with staying clean and regularly groom themselves. Here's a basic guide to maintaining your Basenji.
Brushing
Frequency: Weekly brushing is sufficient.
Purpose: Removes loose hair and keeps the coat shiny.
Tool: Use a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt.
I am using the basic Hand Rubber Comb shown below. Mika & Moka did not permit me to use the one on the right.
2. Bathing
Frequency: Once every 3-4 months or as needed (e.g., if they get dirty).
Tip: Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils.
Shampoo: Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo.
3. Nail Trimming
Frequency: Every 3-4 weeks.
Signs: If you hear clicking on hard floors, it's time for a trim.
Tool: Use a dog nail clipper or grinder.
Please note that my dogs are often exercised outside or at the dog park, so their nails naturally wear down, and I have never needed to trim them.
4. Ear Cleaning
Frequency: Check weekly and clean as needed.
Tip: Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton balls (never cotton swabs).
Sign of Issues: Redness, odor, or excessive wax may indicate infection.
6. Coat Care
Basenjis are minimal shedders, and their short coat requires little maintenance.
They groom themselves much like cats, keeping themselves relatively odor-free.
7. Eye Care
Wipe away any tear stains or debris with a damp, soft cloth as needed.
By maintaining this grooming routine, your Basenji will stay clean, healthy, and comfortable!
Dental Care - The essential treatment you must not overlook
Small dogs typically have the same 42 teeth as larger dogs, but their jaws are much smaller. This results in overcrowding, with teeth packed tightly together, forming narrow spaces that trap food and debris. The crowded teeth are more difficult to clean, increasing the likelihood of plaque and tartar buildup.
There are two approaches to maintaining a dog's oral health: brushing and utilizing enzymatic dental gels. I personally favor and consistently use enzymatic gels, as I am concerned that brushing might harm a dog's gums. The enzymatic gel effectively penetrates the gums and eliminates decayed food particles that lead to bad breath and tooth decay.
I have been brushing my dog's teeth every night before bed since their permanent teeth came in. Here, you can observe the results on 4-year-old Mika's teeth.
I recommend the following dental gels for dogs. These products are user-friendly: apply the appropriate amount according to your dog's size onto your finger and gently apply it directly to the teeth, concentrating on the area between the teeth and gums. There is no requirement for a toothbrush or any additional tools. Simply ensure the paste is administered into the mouth.
The last option, Orazime, can be administered orally or mixed with a small amount of food, providing an effective solution for dogs that resist direct gel application.
