My Basenji boy, Gadget


  • Hello. I've been lurking for awhile and finally decided to introduce myself to the group. My name is Jackie and I'm originally from Indiana but now living in Costa Rica. Six years ago I went into the pet store to buy treats for our beagle and came home with a 13 month old Basenji mix. lol. His eyes met mine as I walked in the door and he wouldn't take his eyes off me. He was shaking and very nervous. It was an instant bond between us and I knew I had to take him home. His story was quite tragic. His previous owners were an elderly couple who where about to lose their home and the husband shot the wife while she was sleeping and then killed himself. I believe that "Tipper" (his name at that time) may have been in bed with her when she was shot and killed and that the husband may have been abusive.

    Gadget (his name now) was very skittish when he came to live with us and it took several months before he would even come near my husband. But now he's a happy boy who is my constant companion, always at my side in whatever I do.

    This is my very first Basenji and found that I love the breed! It hasn't been without it's trials and tribulations though... He can be very stubborn. When I give him a command he is always thinking about what's in it for "him"... so sometimes he obeys, and at other times he does not. Just depends on whether it's to his benefit or not. LOL And we have had some aggression issues around other dogs... especially those that come into our yard. He is definitely an Alpha dog and has been in a few scuffles with our neighbors female Staffordshire.

    But overall he's been a complete joy to have around and I am so glad he came into our lives. :)

    0_1546918906054_Gadget in Truck.jpg


  • Welcome Jackie! What part of Costa Rica? We have a friend visiting us who has been living there about 6 years. How big is Gadget?


  • The "stubbornness" - ""what's in it for me" - all all Basenji characteristics. You are both so lucky to have found each other. He is gorgeous!


  • He's a cutie. So glad it has worked out for you (and him)!

    That "what's in it for me" is definitely a trait. LOL


  • @debradownsouth We live in the Central Valley, near Grecia. Where do your friends live? As for Gadget, he is about 30 lbs.


  • Lovely looking boy - and so lucky to have found you as his forever home !

Suggested Topics

  • Basenji mix down under

    Member Introductions
    5
    0 Votes
    5 Posts
    3k Views
    claireC
    Ok, I've added her as my profile pic - not sure how I post a photo in a reply though...
  • Basenji Aggression

    Member Introductions
    4
    0 Votes
    4 Posts
    3k Views
    wizardW
    Yes to the suggestions to get her checked and also spay her. Aggression may not necessarily be vicious but rather reaction to the scary situation she encountered. It can be dealt with through consistent and regular training (with treats to start) - you might try the Fenzi Dog Academy online classes (they have a great class for retraining reactive dogs). But regardless you need to be more aware of her surroundings and not put her in a situation that may be scary to her or at least get her attention back on you (treats) when you can't avoid the situation.
  • Newbie to basenjis

    Member Introductions
    8
    0 Votes
    8 Posts
    3k Views
    wizardW
    Welcome to the pack and yes do post pictures when you get a chance - we are definitely addicted to pictures.
  • My Basenji?

    Member Introductions
    23
    0 Votes
    23 Posts
    6k Views
    scarlettsmommaS
    It was actually the vet tech wasn't the most brilliant thing on the planet… needless to say I found another vet the next week and they think she might have some bulldog in her... what a mix. I believe that she definitely could have some bulldog in her judging by the way she lays around the house.
  • Benji the Basenji

    Member Introductions
    7
    0 Votes
    7 Posts
    3k Views
    nomrbddgsN
    Hi there and welcome to the forum!
  • Between Basenjis

    Member Introductions
    8
    0 Votes
    8 Posts
    3k Views
    nala121498N
    I'm sorry for the loss of your dear Basenjis. Losing a pet is so difficult. I hope this site helps you through the transition. Welcome.