Bellator Basenjis; pronounced belˈlaː.tor, a latin word meaning warrior, soldier, or fighter; was established in 2015. We chose this as our kennel name to signify and exemplify the hunter spirit of the basenji. They were originally bred in Africa to be hunters, and although ours are beloved couch companions, their instinct runs deep and they will never pass up a chance to chase a bird or squirrel from the yard. It’s a strong name that we chose to represent a strong and hardy little dog.
We are members of the BCOA (Basenji Club of America), the Rip Van Wrinkle Basenji Club, the Mid-Atlantic Basenji Club and all of our dogs and their offspring are AKC registered. We health test all of our dogs and puppies for the age appropriate and available health testings recommended by our Basenji Clubs, eventually reaching CHIC Certification (Canine Health Information Center) status which comes sometime after age two. CHIC certified means they have completed health tests recommended by the BCOA and OFA for DNA Fanconi, DNA PRA, OFA Hip X-Ray, CERF or CAER Certified Eye exam, and an OFA Thyroid Panel.
Our dogs current health testing statuses are displayed on the “Our Dogs” page with their names and pictures. All published testing information can be verified at Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website.
As stated on our home page, we are dedicated to promoting quality in breeding and AKC showing of pure bred Basenjis and to do all things possible to bring their natural qualities to perfection. We strive to produce healthy, happy dogs that are sound in both mind and body, with solid temperaments, while adhering closely to the basenji standard set forth by the American Kennel Club (AKC). We actively show in AKC conformation and hope to get into other AKC sanctioned performance venues in the future.
Bellator dogs and puppies live and are raised as members of our family, in our home, and generally right under our feet! Our puppies receive early socialization and stimulation while learning positive behaviors, training, and skills. Our pups remain part of our family even after they leave for their new homes and we strongly encourage new owners to keep in touch and update us. Any pup placed by us here at Bellator will always have a home with us and can be returned at any time, for any reason. Since we are the breeder, and chose to bring this puppy into the world, we feel responsible for the puppy for its entire life, and would never want it taken to a shelter or rescue; the pups safety and well being is our primary concern.
So what’s all this mean to you? If you choose to purchase a puppy from Bellator it means your puppy will be free from any genetic disease that a test is available for, with many generations of healthy relatives backing your puppy’s pedigree. All of our puppies are sold with conditional health guarantees and signed contracts that clearly outline all expectations. It also means you will have a lifetime, built in support system to help you and guide you along the way with a puppy that was given every advantage to be healthy, happy, and long lived well before it was even born. We want you to feel comfortable with purchasing a puppy from us knowing your puppy has been given the best start possible!
Further questions? Click on the “Contact Us” link above and send us a message!