Africanis

Profile

The Africanis is a landrace breed of dog native to Africa, known for its agility, intelligence, and strong hunting instincts. They are medium-sized with short coats and come in a variety of colors. Africanis dogs are loyal, protective, and make excellent family pets.

Characteristics
Details
Dog Breed Name
Africanis
Breed Group
Working Group
Origin
Africa
Alternative Names
Basenji, Congo Dog, Zande Dog
Suitable Weather
Warm and dry climate
Avg. Weight
55-88 pounds
Avg. Height
22 to 25 inches
Life Expectancy
10-14 years
Coat Color
Various coat colors, including black, brown, tan, fawn, and brindle.
Coat Type
Short coat
Shedding Frequency
7-14 days
Activity Level
High
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Grooming
Low
Dog Cost
$300 to $500

History

The Africanis is a landrace breed of dog that is indigenous to Africa. They are believed to have originated from ancient African pariah dogs that were brought to the continent by early human settlers. Africanis dogs are known for their adaptability, intelligence, and loyalty, making them excellent companions and working dogs for various tasks.

Highlights

Africanis dogs are a natural breed that has evolved over centuries in Africa, known for their resilience and adaptability to harsh environments.

They are typically medium-sized dogs with a lean, muscular build and a short coat that requires minimal grooming.

Africanis dogs are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs and companions.

They are highly energetic and require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Appearance

The Africanis is a medium-sized dog breed that typically weighs between 35 to 55 pounds and stands at a height of 20 to 24 inches at the shoulder. They have a lean and muscular build with a short coat that comes in various colors such as tan, black, or brindle. Africanis dogs have a strong and agile appearance, with a pointed muzzle and erect ears.

Avg. Height

22-25 inches

Avg. Weight

55-88 pounds

Avg. Lifespan

10-14 years

Personality & Behaviour

The Africanis is a highly intelligent and independent dog breed with a strong prey drive and protective instincts. They are known for their loyalty, courage, and agility, making them excellent guard dogs and hunters. Africanis dogs are generally friendly and affectionate with their families, but can be wary of strangers.

They require consistent training and socialization to prevent any aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar people or animals. Africanis dogs are energetic and active, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Adaptability

Affection Level

Cat Friendly

Child Friendly

Stranger Friendly

Apartment Friendly

Health Issues

Social Needs

Temperament

Compatibility with Children
Excellent with Children
Compatibility with other Dogs
Good with Other Dogs
Compatibility with Strangers
Highly Friendly
Playfulness
Highly Playful
Protectiveness
Highly Protective
Trainability Level
Highly Trainable
Energy Level
Moderate
Barking Level
Moderate
Need of Exercise
Moderate

Compatibility with Children

Africanis dogs are known for their friendly and playful nature, making them highly compatible with children. They are energetic and love to play, making them great companions for active kids.

Africanis dogs are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, making them excellent watchdogs for families with children. With proper socialization and training, Africanis dogs can form strong bonds with children and become loving and devoted family pets.

Compatibility with other Pets

Africanis dogs are known to be highly social and friendly, making them generally compatible with other pets in the household. They are known to get along well with other dogs, cats, and even small animals if properly socialized from a young age.

However, as with any breed, individual temperament can vary so it is important to monitor their interactions and provide proper training and supervision. Overall, Africanis dogs are adaptable and can form strong bonds with other pets in the home.

Best Compatible Dogs with Africanis

1. Basenji
2. Rhodesian Ridgeback
3. Boerboel
4. African Wild Dog
5. Pharaoh Hound

Care Requirements

The Africanis is a low-maintenance dog breed that requires regular exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization to thrive. They have a short coat that only requires occasional brushing to keep it in good condition. Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention are important for their overall health.

Providing a balanced diet, fresh water, and a comfortable living environment are essential for their well-being. Positive reinforcement training methods are recommended to help them develop good behavior and obedience.

Monthly Maintenance Cost

The Africanis is a low-maintenance dog breed that requires minimal grooming and veterinary care. However, there are still some monthly costs to consider when owning an Africanis:

  1. Food: $30-$50 per month
  2. Flea and tick prevention: $10-$20 per month
  3. Heartworm prevention: $10-$20 per month
  4. Dental care: $5-$10 per month
  5. Miscellaneous expenses (toys, treats, etc.): $10-$20 per month

Overall, the monthly maintenance cost of owning an Africanis is estimated to be around $65-$120.

Health

Africanis dogs are known for their resilience and overall good health. However, like all dog breeds, they are prone to certain health issues that can be prevented with proper care and precautionary measures. Some common health issues in Africanis dogs include:

  1. Parasites: Regularly deworming and flea/tick prevention can help protect Africanis dogs from parasitic infestations.
  2. Skin conditions: Africanis dogs may be prone to skin allergies and irritations. Regular grooming and proper hygiene can help prevent skin issues.
  3. Hip dysplasia: This is a common orthopedic issue in many dog breeds, including Africanis. Providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent hip dysplasia.
  4. Dental problems: Regular dental care, such as brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews, can help prevent dental issues in Africanis dogs.
  5. Obesity: Maintaining a healthy diet and providing regular exercise can help prevent obesity in Africanis dogs, which can lead to various health issues.

Overall, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and good hygiene practices are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of Africanis dogs. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a long and healthy life for your beloved pet.

Food & Feeding

The Africanis is a breed of dog that is known for its hardiness and adaptability to various environments. When it comes to feeding an Africanis, it is important to provide them with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

The best food for an Africanis is a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for their size and activity level. It is important to choose a food that is made with real meat as the first ingredient and does not contain any artificial additives or fillers. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid feeding your Africanis table scraps or human food, as this can lead to obesity and other health issues.

In terms of quantity, an adult Africanis typically requires around 1.5 to 2 cups of food per day, divided into two meals. Puppies may need more frequent feedings and smaller portions to support their growth and development. It is important to monitor your Africanis’ weight and adjust their food intake as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.

Feeding timings for an Africanis can vary depending on their age and activity level. It is generally recommended to feed adult dogs twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Puppies may need more frequent feedings, with meals spaced throughout the day. It is important to establish a consistent feeding schedule to help regulate your Africanis’ digestion and prevent overeating.

Fun Facts About Africanis

The Africanis is a landrace breed of dog that is indigenous to Africa and is believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the world.


Africanis dogs are known for their high level of intelligence, agility, and endurance, making them excellent working dogs for tasks such as herding, hunting, and guarding.


These dogs are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of climates and environments, from hot deserts to lush forests.


The Africanis is a medium-sized dog with a short coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and brindle.


Despite their wild appearance, Africanis dogs are known to be loyal, affectionate, and friendly companions to their human families.

Cost

The average cost of an Africanis dog breed ranges from $300 to $800. Prices may vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. Adoption fees for Africanis dogs typically range from $50 to $200.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions