Best Dog Food For Basenjis 2024 — For All Needs

Best Dog Food For Basenjis

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Every Basenji owner, at some point, ponders this age-old question: “Am I giving my furry friend the very best?” Dive into this article as we explore the nutritional maze of dog foods. We’ve put together this is the ultimate guide to finding the best dog food for Basenjis tailor-made for the specific needs of this breed. Whether you’re a seasoned Basenji parent or a new entrant to this beautiful breed’s world, rest assured: we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Best Dog Food For Basenjis — At A Glance

Scroll to the right to see all our recommendations for the best dog food for Basenjis.

Click this link to go to the reviews
(We encourage you to keep reading to make a more educated decision)

Why You Should Trust Us

184

hours of research went into this review. Hands-on tests, our dog’s experience, competitive analysis and more.

25

dog food manufacturing companies were under consideration for the top ten.

5

expert opinions and research studies were used to provide accurate information and rankings.

Chapter 1: The Research

Basenji Dog Food Health & Nutritional Needs

Ch 2 | Ch 3

What Is The Best Food For Basenjis?

Providing your Basenji with the appropriate food from weaning to maturity is crucial for their overall health and happiness. Before we recommend the top dog food options for your Basenji, it’s important to understand how food affects their well-being.

As a small breed, Basenji has distinct nutritional needs that require careful consideration. The ideal food for your Basenji should be of high quality and tailored to their unique dietary requirements, taking into account factors such as:

  • Age
  • Activity level
  • Health
  • Weight (size)

Food & Basenji Age

Basenjis have specific nutritional needs at different stages of their life. A diet that meets these life-stage needs is essential for proper development and health maintenance.

  • Basenji puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and a high protein count of at least 22% to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for Basenji puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial developmental stage.
  • Adult Basenjis. Require a diet that is moderate in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. You must slowly transition your dog to an adult recipe at one year old. Adult dog food should typically have a protein content of around 18-26%, depending on the specific needs and dog activity level.
  • Senior Basenjis. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. At around 8 or 9, you should slowly transition your Basenji to senior food. Senior formulas concentrate on the unique needs of a dog’s aging body. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are important to boost their weakening immune system.

Food & Basenji Activity Level

Basenjis are known for their agility, intelligence, and active nature. They are a breed that requires regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. The food they consume should be closely aligned with their activity level to ensure they maintain a healthy weight and have the energy required to meet their daily needs. Dogs with higher activity levels, such as Basenjis engaged in agility training, hiking, or running, require more calories to fuel their increased energy expenditure. These dogs have a faster metabolism and need more food to support their active lifestyle and maintain their muscle mass.

On the other hand, Basenjis with lower activity levels, such as primarily indoor companions or older dogs, may not burn as many calories through physical activities. Overfeeding these dogs can lead to weight gain and associated health issues, particularly if their caloric intake exceeds their energy expenditure.

To maintain optimal health and vitality in Basenjis, providing them with the appropriate amount of food that matches their activity level is important.

Food & Basenji Health

Generally, Basenjis are healthy dogs, but like any breed, they are susceptible to several health concerns. Although certain health issues that Basenjis may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet.

Some of the most common health issues faced by Basenjis include the following:

  • Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Basenjis. Food allergies in Basenjis may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. It’s important to note that food intolerances can also occur. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. 
  • Fanconi syndrome. A genetic disorder in which the kidneys fail to reabsorb electrolytes and nutrients, leading to excessive glucose in the urine even when blood glucose levels are normal.
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). An inherited eye disease in which the retina deteriorates over time, leading to progressive vision loss and eventual blindness.
  • Hip dysplasia. A hereditary condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
  • Hypothyroidism. A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. This can result in symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and skin problems.
  • Intestinal malabsorption. A condition in which the intestines don’t properly absorb nutrients from food. It can lead to chronic diarrhea and weight loss.
  • Umbilical hernia. A protrusion of the abdominal lining, abdominal fat, or a portion of abdominal organ(s) through the area around the belly button.
  • Coloboma. A congenital defect where there is a gap in one of the structures of the eye. It can affect vision depending on its location and size.

Basenji-Specific Dog Food Qualities To Look For

To help maintain their health and prevent some health problems that may arise from poor nutrition, it’s essential to provide Basenjis with a well-balanced and nutritious diet and preventative supplementation when your veterinarian advises.

Here are the key qualities to look for in dog food for Basenjis.

  • Avoid common allergies. Because Basenjis can develop allergies or food intolerances, we highly recommend conducting an at-home dog allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to 255 ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens.
  • Probiotics. Basenjis can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Probiotics also help to reduce your Basenji’s inflammatory responses to allergens and immunological attacks.
  • Digestibility. Basenjis can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for Basenjis. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs.
  • Kidney support. It’s essential to seek out a dog food formulated to support kidney health that is low in phosphorus and contains appropriate levels of high-quality proteins to lower the likelihood of liver problems.
  • Eye support. Antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins C and E have been suggested to support overall eye health.
  • Intestinal malabsorption. Look for foods that have easily digestible proteins and are rich in fiber. Prebiotics and probiotics can also be beneficial for optimizing gut health.
  • Hip dysplasia. While diet cannot prevent hip dysplasia, ensuring your Basenji gets food fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin can also support joint health and mitigate the effects of this condition.
  • Hypothyroidism. Ensuring that the food contains the proper levels of iodine can support thyroid function. The food should be well-balanced with an appropriate calorie count to prevent unnecessary weight gain due to this condition.

Other General Tips To Pick The Best Food For Basenjis

Other factors to consider when picking food for this Breed.

  • AAFCO approved
  • High-quality protein as the first ingredient
  • Avoid meat meals or meat byproducts
  • Made in the USA
  • Avoid food that contains fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
  • Your dog’s preferences

It’s important to note that each Basenji has unique dietary needs. Seek guidance from a veterinarian who can help you choose the most suitable food that fulfills your Basenji’s nutritional requirements.

Chapter 2: The Reviews

The Best Dog Food For Basenji Reviewed

Ch 1 | Ch 3

Best Basenji Dog Food

Here are Canine Bible’s top picks for the best dog food for Basenjis.

Our research team chose all dog foods listed below based on AAFCO’s nutrient guidelines, Basenji’s exclusive nutrition needs, customer reviews, price, and more. This Basenji food list also includes food for specific needs such as weight loss, allergies, and more.


Best Overall Dog Food For Basenjis — Nom Nom

Our rating: 4.9

Overview

Flavors: Beef, chicken, pork & turkey┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Fresh
Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Beef, chicken, pork & turkey
Life stage: All ages
Food type: Fresh
Ingredients: Human-grade
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

Nom Nom fresh dog food recipes win the spot for the best dog food for Basenjis. This brand stands out because it uses fresh, human-grade ingredients to craft pre-portion recipes delivered directly to your doorstep. Feeding your dog Nom Nom comes with numerous scientifically-supported health benefits of fresh dog food, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. Fresh recipes are also ideal for dogs with food allergies, sensitive stomachs, or other dietary concerns because they avoid cheap fillers, additives, and harmful chemicals. Unlike traditional kibble, Nom Nom is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained — this means that your Basenji will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

Nom Nom stands out from other dog food brands by taking a personalized approach to nutrition. Many dog food brands offer one-size-fits-all recipes, but Nom Nom takes the time to create a custom formula for each dog, considering factors like age, weight, and activity level to ensure your dog gets the perfect balance of nutrients for their unique needs. You can tell Nom Nom any concerns about your dog’s health, such as food allergies, tear staining, bad breath, joint issues, or any other problem your pet may be experiencing. They will tailor your dog’s meals to accommodate your pet’s needs.

Key Features

  • Vet-designed. All recipes are made by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that comply with AAFCO standards.
  • Human-grade. Cooked in human-grade kitchens with human-grade ingredients.
  • Excellent ingredient sourcing. They only source from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.

Pros

  • The level of customization is unmatched
  • Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
  • Non-processed food (zero chemicals)
  • Never use feed-grade ingredients
  • Do not process ingredients to be shelf-stable

Cons

  • It’s on the expensive side

Our readers have access to 50% off their first order. Just use this link to get started. The discount will be applied automatically.

Our Video Review


Best Dry Dog Food For Basenjis — The Honest Kitchen

Our rating: 4.8

Overview

Flavors: Chicken┊ Life stage: Adult ┊ Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Chicken
Life stage: Adult
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Human-grade
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

The Honest Kitchen Chicken Clusters formula is our top pick for the best all-around dry dog food for Basenjis. Unlike traditional dry dog food, this recipe is minimally processed. The Honest Kitchen recipes are roasted and dehydrated to preserve nutrients and flavor and maximize nutritional integrity.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

The Honest Kitchen is a superfood-powered kibble with functional ingredients that support and boost gut, skin and coat, immunity, heart, weight management and more.

Key Features

  • 100% human-grade. Made with USDA meat proteins, vegetables, and fruits.
  • Nutritionist formulated. Designed by veterinarians and backed by science to provide balanced nutrition
  • Digestive health. It contains naturally occurring pre and probiotics to help regulate the dog microbiome

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • Exceeds industry standards
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives
  • Cheaper than fresh dog food
  • Crunchy texture

Cons

  • It’s a bit more expensive than traditional kibble. NUTRO Ultra dry dog food is another great alternative if you want a more traditional dry dog food that’s less expensive.

Our readers can save 30% off their first order by using the code CANINEBIBLE30 — Use this link to get started.


Best Food For Basenji Puppy — Open Farm

Our rating: 4.7

Overview

Flavors: Blend of chicken, pork & salmon┊ Life stage: Puppies ┊ Food type: Fresh
Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Blend of chicken, port & salmon
Life stage: Puppies
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Fresh
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for Basenjis. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of Basenji puppies, including prebiotic fiber like pumpkin and chicory root, supports healthy digestion and calcium iodate as a source of energy production, and also promotes muscular and cognitive development in puppies.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

This formula is designed specifically for Basenji puppies and has a purposeful blend of three proteins to help prevent allergies. It also has added collagen for healthy joint development.

Key Features

  • Human-grade meats. High-quality meats are raised without antibiotics or added hormones.
  • Superfoods. Boosted with chia seeds, kale, flaxseed and other wholesome ingredients.

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • Made with non-GMO fruits and veggies
  • No potatoes, rendered poultry or meals
  • Serve as a topper or complete meal

Cons

Our Video Review

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Cheapest Dog Food For Basenjis — Blue Buffalo

Our rating: 4.8

VIEW ON AMAZON

Overview

Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish ┊ Life stage: Adult ┊ Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Natural ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish
Life stage: Adult
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Natural
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is great if you are looking for the most affordable dog food for Basenjis. For a slightly lower price than other brands, this dry food is formulated to provide your Basenji pup with sustained healthy energy from high-quality animal-based proteins. This dog food helps build strong, lean muscles and maintain optimal body conditions. It is made with real meat, brown rice, and sweet potatoes, which are easily digestible and provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It is made with real meat as the first ingredient, rare in most affordable dog food brands.

Key Features

  • Omegas. This dog food is also packed with omega-6 and -3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.
  • Muscle support. L-Carnitine to help burn fat while preserving lean muscles
  • Bone and joint health. It also contains Glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development. 

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives

Cons

  • It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities, as it is not specifically designed for these conditions
  • The inclusion of brown rice and sweet potatoes may be higher in carbohydrates than some dogs need, which could be a concern for overweight or diabetic dogs

Best Food For Senior Basenjis — JustFoodForDogs

Our rating: 4.6

Overview

Flavors: Lamb, pork & chicken┊ Life stage: Senior ┊ Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Human-grade┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Lamb, pork & chicken
Life stage: Senior
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Human-grade
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

Most veterinarians consider a dog a senior once it reaches seven years old. If your Basenji is in that stage of his life, it might be time to switch to a high-quality senior dog food diet. If you’re concerned about keeping your Basenji healthy during his older years, JustFoodForDogs Senior dog food will support long-life vitality. It’s crafted specifically for your senior Basenji to help them stay healthy by supporting lean muscle mass and weight maintenance.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

JustFoodForDogs is made with only the highest quality fresh ingredients and is free from preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors.

Key Features

  • Bones and joint support. It is enhanced with glucosamine and chondroitin to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages.
  • Human-grade meats. No rendered poultry or meat meals.
  • Bones and joint support. It incorporates type II collagen to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages.

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • Transparent sourcing practices
  • Great feedback from senior dog parent 
  • Certified humane for animal welfare

Cons

  • A bit expensive

Raw Food For Basenjis — Instinct

Our rating: 4.8

Overview

Flavors: Chicken, lamb & beef┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Raw
Ingredients: Raw┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Chicken, lamb & beef
Life stage: All ages
Food type: Raw
Ingredients: Natural
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food for Basenjis, Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Real Beef Recipe formula is one of our top picks for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed with 85% meat and organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your Basenji a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong. 

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

Raw dog food benefits a shinier coat, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, more energy, and smaller stools. Instinct Raw states that raw dog nutrition can promote strong, lean muscles and energize your pup.

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • Never cooked
  • Non-GMO vegetables, fruits, and wholesome ingredients
  • All ingredients are frozen in their prime to maintain the highest level of nutrients
  • Cold-pressure processing to keep the nutrients and taste intact

Cons

  • Needs to be kept frozen until it’s your pet’s mealtime
  • Not as convenient as feeding dry dog food. Open Farm freeze-dried raw dog food is an excellent alternative for a more convenient way to feed raw.

Best Food For Basenjis With Sensitive Stomach — Hill’s

Our rating: 4.7

Overview

Flavors: Chicken & Barley┊ Life stage: Adult┊ Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Natural ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Chicken & Barley
Life stage: Adult
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Natural
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

If you are looking for the best food for Basenjis with sensitive stomachs, Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is a top choice. This kibble is formulated to protect sensitive tummies and skin. It’s made with easily digestible ingredients, including barley, beet pulp, and brown rice, and contains no soy, wheat, or artificial that can cause upsets or skin flare-ups on your Basenji. 

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

Specialized formula fortified with prebiotics fiber for healthy digestion, sensitive stomachs, and immune health. Prebiotic fiber nourishes healthy intestinal bacteria.

Key Features

  • Omega-6. Excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat. 
  • Highly digestible. The food is gentle on the stomach

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • Supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog
  • No artificially colored, flavored, or preserved

Cons

  • Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs.
  • 15% may still be sensitive to this diet. Another option is going fresh with a premium choice like JustFoodForDogs Balanced Remedy. Its plain composition of a single protein source, single starch source, and low-fat levels make it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Best Food For Basenjis With Allergies — Royal Canin

Our rating: 4.7

Overview

Flavors: Natural ┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Hypoallergenic ┊ Manufactured: USA┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Natural
Life stage: All ages
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Hypoallergenic
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

Whether your Basenji suffers from skin allergies, food allergies, or food intolerance to certain ingredients, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic Basenji. This vet-exclusive prescription formula helps dogs with itching, hair loss, skin allergies, and digestive upset. It’s also highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

This formula uses hydrolyzed soy protein (non-animal protein). Hydrolyzed protein is made by a process known as hybridization, which breaks down proteins to a size less likely to be recognized by the immune system, effectively stopping allergic reactions.

Key Features

  • Limited ingredients. Its limited ingredients also make it great against allergies. They use one single source of carbohydrates.
  • Supports GI health. Contains a unique blend of fibers and prebiotics.

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
  • It helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
  • Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation
  • Best dog food for Basenjis with skin allergies
  • Best dog food for itchy skin Basenjis

Cons

  • A bit expensive
  • Requires vet authorization. While we recommend Royal Canine Veterinary for the best results, unfortunately, it requires a prescription. If you can’t wait to visit your vet or don’t have the budget to afford it, ACANA Lamb & Pumpkin Limited Ingredient Diet can also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.

Best Grain-Free Food For Basenjis — Open Farm

Our rating: 4.7

Overview

Flavors: Beef, chicken & turkey, salmon, lamb, venison & more┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Premium ┊ Manufactured: USA┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Beef, chicken & turkey, salmon, lamb, venison & more
Life stage: All ages
Food type: Dry
Ingredients: Premium
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

Does your Basenji dog suffer from grain allergies or intolerances? If so, Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food is your best bet. We picked it because they skip the grain, corn, soy and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, leafy greens and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support Basenji nutritional needs. Open Farm grain-free recipes are specifically designed for dogs with grain sensitivities.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

It’s made responsibly from ethically sourced and sustainable ingredients free from antibiotics, hormones, and artificial preservatives, making it one of the most sustainable dog food brands.

Key Features

  • 100% traceable ingredients. Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient in their bag of Open Farm pet food
  • Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies
  • Ethically sourced protein. Only uses ethically sourced and humanely raised meats

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • No rendered poultry or meat meals
  • Meats from audited higher welfare farms
  • High in protein
  • Local carbon footprint per bag

Cons

  • It can be more expensive than other brands on the market

Readers get 20% off subscription orders with code CANINE20 + an extra 5% off for subscribing. Cancel anytime. Use this link to get started!


Best Wet Dog Food For Basenjis — Open Farm

Our rating: 4.6

Overview

Flavors: Chicken, salmon, beef, & more┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Wet
Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO

Overview

Flavors: Chicken, salmon, beef, & more
Life stage: All ages
Food type: Wet
Ingredients: Human-grade
Manufactured: USA
Nutrition: AAFCO

Why We Picked & Recommended It

Are you looking for the best-wet food for Basenjis? Open Farm Rustic Stew Wet Dog Food is our favorite choice. Basenji is a convenient and healthy option for dog owners who want to feed their dogs soft-textured meals and keep them hydrated, especially those in warmer climates. Unlike traditional canned wet dog food, Open Farm Rustic Stew uses only ingredients fit for human consumption to ensure the highest quality nutrition. Additionally, they use a unique cooking process to make Rustic Stew, preserving the ingredients’ nutritional value and taste, making it a nutritious and tasty option for dogs.

What Sets It Apart From Competitors

Open Farm’s wet dog food is made with sustainable vegetables and meat raised without antibiotics or other harmful additives.

Key Features

  • Vet-formulated. A team of veterinarians and canine nutritionists formulate every recipe.
  • Gently cooked. This process maximizes the nutritional value and promotes a healthy immune system.
  • Travel friendly. Two-year unopened shelf life and transportable tetra pak packaging make it easy to store and travel.

What We Like & Don’t Like

Pros

  • USDA certified meats
  • 100% traceable ingredients from certified family farms
  • A variety pack for picky eaters
  • Nutrient-dense

Cons

  • More expensive than traditional wet dog food

Readers get 20% off subscription orders with code CANINE20 + an extra 5% off for subscribing. Cancel anytime. Use this link to get started!

Other Best Dog Food For Basenjis

  • Best dehydrated dog food for Basenjis. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Basenjis to digest. Additionally, if your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, dehydrated food can be easier for dogs to eat than traditional kibble.
  • Best food topper for Basenjis. Portland Pet Food Company offers a fantastic variety of tasty fresh dog food flavors you can add as a topper to your dog’s kibble meals.
  • Best health-specific custom diets food for Basenjis. JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Basenji has a medical need for a restricted diet.
  • Best dog food for Basenjis to lose weight. Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is great if your Basenji needs to lose weight.
  • Best dog food for Basenjis to gain weight. With 600 calories per cup, Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog Food is ideal for helping your Mastiff gain lean muscle mass.
Chapter 3: Tips, FAQs & More

Calories, Transition & Other Food Tips.

Ch 1 | Ch 2

Basenji Food Calorie Requirements

The caloric needs of dogs are based on their weight. An adult Basenji usually weighs between 20 and 26 pounds, meaning most Basenjis need between 585 and 713 calories daily. You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight.

How to Switch Basenji Dog Food

If you decide to switch your Basenji’s dog food to a new dog formula, it’s advised to adhere to the following recommendations by vets:

  • Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
  • Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
  • Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
  • Week 4: 100% new food

Pro tip: Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Only increase the weekly food percentage if your Basenji seems to be doing well during each transition. Monitor closely, and if you notice any adverse reaction to his new food, stop feeding it to your dog.

Health Dietary Changes In Basenjis

If your Basenji is struggling with the following health conditions, adopting a new diet or adding supplements can be beneficial to get these dog-related issues under control.

ConditionDietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color ChangesIncrease amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI SignsAvoid foods with tryptamine and histamine, such as dairy, fermented vegetables, and meats (yes, this includes bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and DermatitisFortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and ScalingAdjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and CrustinessAdd Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Best Dog Food For Basenjis — Conclusion

Nourishing our Basenjis with the finest food is a testament to the bond we cherish with these graceful dogs. As emphasized throughout the article, the distinctive dietary requirements of Basenjis demand a particular focus on quality proteins, beneficial fats, and the exclusion of unnecessary additives. Their joyful spirit and health directly reflect the nutrition they receive. As stewards of their well-being, we owe them to make informed choices. In the myriad dog food options, always let your Basenji’s best interests be your compass, ensuring they shine in health and happiness.


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Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.

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