Adopt A Basenji

9 available Basenjis near you

Sort by:
Photo of Penny

Penny

Basenji Labrador Retriever

Female, 6 yrs 10 mos

Beverly Hills, CA

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Meet Penny, a 6-year-old Basenji mix with a heart full of love and a spirited personality. Originally from Mexico, Penny made her way to California in December 2020 and was quickly adopted. However, she was returned when her previous family found out they were expecting a baby, and Penny wasn’t comfortable around the little one. Penny is a sweet and loving dog who thrives in the right environment. She’s fully house trained, never has accidents inside, and is a joy to have around. Penny enjoys long walks and playing with her toys, but she also loves relaxing and taking naps next to her favorite people. While Penny is not good with other dogs, cats, or kids, she is an ideal companion in a home where she can be the sole focus of attention. She’s working on her reactivity to other dogs on walks, so a patient family willing to help her through her anxiety would be the perfect fit. If you’re looking for a loyal and affectionate dog who will shower you with love and appreciate a calm, dog-free home, Penny is ready to become a cherished member of your family.
Photo of Sonny

Sonny

Basenji

Male, young

Los Angeles, CA

Color
Red/Golden/Orange/Chestnut
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Story
Sonny and Cher were found running the streets in South LA, weaving in and out of traffic and circling the blocks scavenging and desperate for food. He had on a collar so our director watched them for a good 30-40 minutes, hoping they would run home... They suddenly ended up on the steps to the 77th Police Station where they found some old pizza in a planter. They then proceeded to patrol access and people were too afraid to approach the entrance to the Police station with them guarding the steps, and no one came out or stopped to help, so with only 2 cans of cat food and 1/2 a sandwich from lunch our director decided to see if they would be friends or foes. Immediately Cher ran up and said hello -- it took about 20 minutes but she was able to get her to jump in the car... Sonny was a whole other story ... it took about 2 hours to catch him, but eventually, the car-trap worked and the duo, as if finally sensing they were safe, curled up into each other for a long rest. Neither dog was chipped, Cher was in heat, and Sonny was her devoted bodyguard ... we don't know if/when/how they came together -- but once they were both fixed the bond was broken. He is SUCH a little love -- he does have a bit of separation anxiety now -- but that's likely because he finally feels safe. He is gentle and sweet and seems to have been potty trained but had clearly never been on a leash and it didn't seem like he was touched very much -- now he LOVES it! And he's getting used to the leash and is a champ in a crate - such a fast learner and a very good boy. We have been looking for their people but no one has come forward and it's time they found homes and someone of their own who can really love and care for them. Whoever you are -- you're about to have a very BEST FREIND(s) for life! Please apply HERE: https://forms.gle/67CmuBhiQMf1hYov9March 24, 2025, 4:03 pm
Photo of Ruca MB

Ruca MB

Basenji Jack Russell Terrier

Female, 5 yrs

Inglewood, CA

Color
Brindle - with White
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Story
Ruca MB is a 5 year old female Basenji and Jack Russell Terrier Mix with a heart full of love and a belly always ready for rubs! Ruca was surrendered by her owner and is now looking for a forever home where she can share her sweet, gentle nature. She adores spending time with people, especially when belly rubs are involved, and gets along well with both kids and other dogs. If you're looking for a loving, loyal companion to add joy to your life, Ruca might just be the perfect match. We hold an event every weekend at our facility on SATURDAY and SUNDAY 11-5pm and open to the public. It is first come first serve we do not evaluate applications prior to an event. If there are multiple interested parties in the same dog or puppy at the same time we would pick the best out of the 10 applications. Please visit our social media platforms for the specifics for each weekend as it changes from week to week. Please find our application at lovejoyfoundation.org when you come to an event please bring that filled out in hand with you. You can find our application at Lovejoyfoundation.org. The Lovejoy Foundation, Inc. does not adopt beyond a 30 mile radius from our headquarters in Inglewood. Sometimes exceptions are made in a particular situation for an adopter further out than 30 miles which is at the discretion of the director.
Photo of Caleb

Caleb

Basenji Carolina Dog

Male, 1 yr 7 mos

Los Angeles, CA

Color
Red/Golden/Orange/Chestnut
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
If you're looking for an adventure buddy, you found him! Caleb is a young, friendly, athletic dog who is looking for his furever home. Caleb is potty trained, loves other dogs and all people. He would do best in a home with lots of activities like walks and hikes. Please email mutt.tales.dogs@gmail.com with interests.
Photo of Hyunmi

Hyunmi

Basenji Jindo

Male, 1 yr 6 mos

Torrance, CA

Color
Brown/Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
✅Currently located in South Korea✅️ 💟Available to fly to LAX💟 Meet Hyunmi💕 (It means brown rice in Korean) Hyunmi was rescued from the Gimje City Shelter along with his sibling #AdogsGwiri. The two relied on each other in the shelter. Since they were still young and the shelter had outbreaks of infectious diseases, both were rescued before spending their entire puppyhood there. * With People: Is a bit shy and may bark when approached by unfamiliar people but calms down quickly if redirected. With familiar people, he follows them around, wags his tail, and enjoys being held. Has become very accustomed to touch and will roll over to show his belly when approached or petted. * With Dogs: Is afraid of unfamiliar dogs, so he will receive training. Loves playing with familiar dogs and enjoys full-body play with a dog at his foster home. Seems to become more emotionally attached to that dog, and we are keeping an eye on this bond. * With Cats: Shows little interest when encountering cats. * Separation Anxiety: Is fine spending time alone and plays well with a dog companion. When left with a stranger, he is a bit shy at first, but relaxes if given treats. * Potty Training: Mostly does his business outdoors. When indoors, he prefers using the bathroom rather than pee pads. * Hygiene: Tries to avoid bath time but cooperates once caught. Shows his dislike of nail trimming by whining. * Walks: Has improved significantly with leash pulling since beginning solo walks. Used to stop when seeing cars or motorcycles, but has gained confidence and even runs during walks. Still finds busy streets overwhelming, so desensitization training is ongoing. Sometimes tries to chew his leash or collar, which he’s also being desensitized to. * Car Sickness: Did well on short trips without issue. * Light Biting: Tends to resist when someone tries to grab him with their hands. Most of the time, he just squeals, but when he’s really uncomfortable, he may try to mouth or nip, so please be cautious. * Barking: Barks occasionally as a way to express himself, but it's usually mild. * Sensitivity: Is a bit timid by nature. If someone plays too roughly, he may get startled and let out a yelp. Is also sensitive to sudden loud noises and can get scared easily. FORSTER'S IG : @adogs_hyunme
Photo of Mukgoo

Mukgoo

Basenji Jindo

Male, 5 yrs 10 mos

Torrance, CA

Color
Brindle
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
**He is currently in Seattle** Mukgoo is about 5 years old. He was found near an army base in Korea and immigrated to America around the age of 1 on President’s Day of 2020. He is an incredibly smart and lovable dog. He is kind and loves people (loves dogs and people). He will eat almost anything (except veggies). He can be a jumper when he gets very excited. He prefers households with another dog and a big yard to run around in but it’s not a non-negotiable. He has always adjusted well to whatever the circumstance. Overall, he’s a good dog and he’s got a lot of love to give. I’m having to give him up due to being unable to raise him in my current life stage. In no way, this is due to any bad behaviors or anything. He’s a really kind-hearted and sweet dog. Likes - He loves playing fetch (quickest way to his heart), rolling in the grass, puppycinos, ice cream, snow, people, dogs - Historically has liked lamb, fish skin, salmon, bully sticks, dental sticks, sweet potato, etc. In general, he loves to eat~ - Very social and prefers to greet other dogs and people, including dog parks, doggy day cares Dislikes - He dislikes bath but who does - He doesn’t like being alone but can manage a few hours if needed - No longer is a fan of veggies - Fireworks and big noises Things to Watch out for - Throwing up: If you let him freely eat grass, he’ll throw up. When he feels stressed, he can react by throwing up. - He can be independent when he is fixated on things. Just be patient with him and he will come back to focus on you. He is a people pleaser. - He rarely barks. He may bark when other dogs bark but even that is rare. He is more of a whiner. If he needs to let you know something, he will whine. - Not a counter surfer but can be if you let him Commands He knows his basic commands (sit, down, hand, etc.) and is open to learning new ones as well. Potty He is used to peeing and pooing outside. Once you create a regular spot and time for him, it’s clockwork. Otherwise, just be aware when he whines that it may be time to go. - At a high level, he knows “go potty” and “go poo” as a sign to go to the bathroom - He will rarely go pee or poo inside the home. Once in a million tries, a thing like that can happen during the night but he’s really sorry when he does. Leash He has never been fully off-leash, only in areas that condone it (home, backyard, dog park, etc.). He is not one to go off-leash and run away. He’ll run around and try to have you play with him. Keep him on a short leash if you need to focus on walking as he can veer away due to his interest in sniffing. Once on a short leash, he’ll understand and walk along. However, give him time to sniff as he is very curious with smells. Sleep He can sleep together or on his own if you’re in a different room or floor. He is also loves to cuddle up as well. When there’s fireworks, it’s recommended you sleep where he sees you because he’s afraid of the loud sounds. Food He is on one meal a day. If you give him two meals a day, he may not eat the first meal. Snacks though he loves. He knows how to sit and wait for food. He is currently on Costco’s salmon and sweet potato meal. * With People: Is a sociable dog who likes people so much. Loves greeting and being petted so much, wagging his tail. * With Dogs: Gets along very well with any dog. Has good social skills with dogs, so he becomes popular when playing with canine friends at the dog park. * Separation Anxiety: Sometimes barks along only when other dogs bark, but the exact details are not known yet. May need training to adapt again when the environment changes. * Potty Training: Prefers pottying outdoors rather than indoors. * Hygiene: Is a little afraid of water. Accepts baths nicely when being handled carefully. * Walks: Is an excellent walker and matches his pace with his handler. Loves going for walks and enjoys smelling while walking. 💌Special Notes💌 * Is so smart that he has mastered "sit down," "wait," and "paw." * Has a bright personality and runs when he's excited and expresses a lot of affection. * Is a bit scared of sudden loud noises.
Photo of Milo (HDS)

Milo (HDS)

Basenji Jindo

Male, 1 yr 9 mos

Los Angeles, CA

Color
White - with Tan, Yellow or Fawn
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
❗Current location: in a private shelter in South Korea❗ • Rescue Story : There was a stray dog that wandered around the private shelter in South Korea for years. One day, she gave birth to a litter of several puppies, and sadly she lost most of her babies during labor as well as her own life. Milo was the only puppy who lived then and became a testament to the hope that can be found in an awful situation. He has been taken care of at the shelter since, looking for a loving forever home where he can grow and thrive. • Personality: Friendly, Active, Playful Milo is such a lovable pup who likes to play with people and doggos! He would be a great fit in a family that enjoys outdoor activities! • Affinity - With Cats: Not tested - With Dogs: Gets along with other dogs except for aggressive ones. - With Adults/Kids: Super sweet around people including men / not tested for kids • Walking Manner: In training. • Housetrained: He would use the bathroom outdoors if adopted. • Shedding: 5-7 • Food Allergies: No allergies found so far • Bath/Brushing: Tolerates both. • Separation Anxiety: None. • Bark or Howl: He doesn't bark unless he is left in a confined space. • Carsickness: Not experienced • Likes & Dislikes: He loves toys, treats, and people! / Not a fan of aggressive dogs.
new badge
Photo of Hanny (HDS)

Hanny (HDS)

Basenji Jindo

Female, 3 yrs

Los Angeles, CA

Color
White - with Tan, Yellow or Fawn
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
** Current location: at a private shelter in South Korea ** Meet Hanny👋 Hanny was rescued just in time from the streets of South Korea in 2022, found as a tiny 2-month-old puppy with her siblings. She needed skin treatment as a puppy and spent her early years at a clinic, waiting for a place to belong. She was recently moved into the shelter and is now hoping to spend her next birthdays with a forever family who will celebrate each one with her🎂💕 • Personality: Friendly, Sociable, Sweet Super friendly with both people and dogs—she’s known for her sweet nature and affectionate charm❤️ Moderate energy, no separation anxiety. • Affinity with - Dogs: Great with dogs of all sizes and plays with good manners. - Cats: Not tested with cats - Adults/Kids: Great with adults / Just fine around kids on a walk • Walking Manners: She may need a little time to adjust to new walking spots but walks gently on a leash. • Housetrained: She’ll need some potty training in a new home, but may do well with regular outdoor walks. • Bathing/Brushing: great with baths and brushing! • Car Sickness: Rides well in the car—no motion sickness! • Separation Anxiety: Zero. • Barks/Howls: Very quiet • Appetite/Food Allergies: Eats well. No food allergies found so far. • Shedding level (1~10): 6 • Likes/Dislikes: She loves attention from people—so get ready for cuddles and tail wags! • Health: A healthy pup!
Photo of Pineapple

Pineapple

Basenji Corgi

Female, adult

SAN PEDRO, CA

Color
Red/Golden/Orange/Chestnut - with White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Please contact AnimalsRule (info@animalsrule.org) for more information about this pet. Please read her biography below to learn what she needs in a home placement and how to apply. •Name: Pineapple•Age: DOB: 04/21/2018•Sex: female, spayed•Breed: Corgi, Basenji, Chihuahua mix?? It's a guess•Weight: 10 lbs•Housebroken: yes, in a home with outdoor space.•Kids: 7 and older•Other dogs: friendly with other dogs, good play manners•Cats: unknown •Housing: any, with a yard or patio space. •Personality: she is a happy girl, full of personality. She is playful with toys, and her tail is always wagging. Lovely little dog.•What we know: Pineapple was owner surrendered to the Downey Shelter. We don't know why, nor do we have any back history on her. Great with other dogs, good on leash. Always happy, nice sweet girl. •Medical: healthy, dewormed, vaccinated, spayed, and microchipped.•How to apply: Visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org to fill out our online application of interest. •To see more pictures and video of Pineapple, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages @animalsrulerescue •Pineapple can be seen by appointment only, with an approved application. If you are interested, just visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest. May 31, 2025, 8:54 pm
1 - 9 of 9 pets available

Search for Basenji puppies and dogs

Beverly Hills, CA

Find adoptable Basenji by Beverly Hills, CA

Animal shelters near Beverly Hills, CA

Adopting a Basenji

Frequently asked questions about acquiring an Basenji - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.

The cost to adopt a Basenji from a rescue organization or animal shelter typically ranges from $150 to $600 in the United States. Adopting a Basenji costs much less than buying a puppy from a breeder, which can cost between $800 to $2,500 in the United States but varies based on factors including the breeder’s reputation, the dog’s pedigree, age, and health, and the state or country where you are purchasing the dog.

The easiest way to adopt a Basenji is through a breed-specific rescue organization that specializes in Basenjis. A great place to start is creating a breed search on Adopt a Pet. The search will show you all the available Basenjis in your area.

Basenji fun facts

Fun Facts:

The reason Basenjis are known to be the "barkless dog" is because they have flat larynxes, so they're not able to bark in the traditional manner. Their bark is more of a rather delightful yodel.

Basenjis were so beloved in ancient times that the Metropolitan Museum of New York boasts a bronze statue of a Basenji and his owner from ancient Babylon.

Whereas most dogs use either sight or smell to hunt, Basenjis utilize both senses in the hunt.

Basenji hero photo

Basenji Breed Guide

Before you adopt, learn everything about Basenji types to temperament and health issues to popular Basenji mixes in our Breed 101 Guides.