Training

You should start socialising your Basenji early on, preferably when he or she is very young. For their own well-rounded development as adults, it is important to expose children to a wide range of people, places, and experiences. Anxieties and timidity may be alleviated in this way.

The Basenji may be trained to react positively to praise and other forms of positive reinforcement. Reward appropriate behaviour with love, praise, and rewards. This makes instruction more enjoyable and increases the likelihood that they will repeat the desired activities.

Basenjis are prone to boredom and disinterest, so it's important to keep training sessions brief and interesting. Aim for 5- to 10-minute sessions when you concentrate on no more than two instructions at a time

Maintain uniformity in your expectations, regulations, and directives. Because of their intelligence and potential independence, Basenjis do best under a leader that is both constant and fair.

To encourage compliance, use a combination of vocal directives and hand signs.

Because of their keen eyesight, Basenjis might be responsive to visual signals. They will learn what to anticipate from you if your signals are consistent.

Obedience Training: Instruct your dog in the fundamentals of sitting, staying, coming, and going down. Take it slow and learn only one command before moving on to the next. With time and practise, your Basenji will learn to respond to more complex orders.

Because of their high levels of energy, Basenjis need constructive outlets for their play. Make sure they're physically and intellectually active by taking them for walks, runs, or play sessions every day.

In most cases, Basenjis will not respond well to punishment or negative reinforcement, thus it's best to avoid using them. Punishment could make them even more reluctant or obstinate. Redirect their behaviour and praise good choices instead.

Basenjis are known to be stubborn and slow to learn new things. Keep your cool, be patient, and praise them when they do what you want them to. If you're having trouble with your Basenji or just want some advice, a professional dog trainer with expertise working with independent breeds may be able to help. Another option is to register your dog in obedience training.