Although you can't see it in the photos, he does indeed have a white tip on his tail. It is slightly curled but not nearly as much as a typical basenji tail.
He is very intelligent, and he is also sneaky. He does bark some, but he also makes some interesting noises. He will whine quite a bit, but also make different noises. I haven't heard him howl consistently like on some of the youtube videos. He loves to jump in bed and cuddle, and he is affectionate. Those are some of the characteristic traits that stood out to us.
I'm a little torn on the independence trait.. he seems to have a mind of his own, but he is rather attached to me and my girlfriend already. I guess that doesn't mean he isn't independent, especially at 9 months. Thanks for the replies!! We appreciate the responses!