Cocker Spaniel

Spanyells started in the 14th century and they eventually were divided into water and land types. Those spaniels since evolved somewhat differently in appearance and are now recognized as the English Cocker Spaniel. Their strong desire to hunt renders them capable gun dogs that can cover territory speedily and flush and retrieve game, when under command.
The Cocker Spaniel is in the AKC Sporting Group. He has a sturdy, compact body and a refined head, with the overall dog in complete balance and of ideal size. He stands on straight forelegs with his back sloping slightly toward moderately bent, muscular rear legs. They are capable of high speed, and have great endurance.
They commonly have a few health issues one should be aware of before deciding to get a cocker. One is ear infections, or otitis externa. They have floppy ears that like to trap moisture and that will cause infection. The folds of their ears can be thick, causing the same problem. A hereditary eye problem they frequently have is retinal atrophy, which affects their eye sight and can cause blindness. Both of these issues can be costly.
Most cockers are friendly with their families, but should be closely watched around small children. They don't have a high tolerance for the ear or fur pulling that young kids commonly like to do. They can be distrusting of strangers at first, but usually appropriate training and exposure to different situations when they are puppies can minimize the risk of them biting or being too fearful.

Basenji

The Basenji is a breed of hunting dog that was bred in Africa. Most of the major kennel clubs place the breed in the Hound Group; more specifically, it is in the sighthound classification. The Basenji does not bark like a typical dog would but produces an unusual yodel-like sound commonly called a "barroo", due to its unusually shaped larynx. It has been given the nickname of "barkless dog".
Basenjis have many unique traits. Basenjis, like dingos, come into heat only once annually, as compared to most other dog breeds which usually have two or more cycles every year. Both dingos and Basenjis share a trait of lacking a distinctive odor.
Basenji are small, short-haired dogs with erect ears, a tightly curled tail and a graceful neck. A Basenji's forehead is wrinkled, especially when the animal is a puppy or a senior citizen. Basenji eyes are typically almond shaped, which gives the dog the appearance of squinting seriously. They usually weigh around 25 pounds and stand 16 inches tall. They are structure is as long as they are tall. Don't let size fool you, the basenji is an athletic dog and is powerful. They have a graceful gait like a trotting horse, with their usually curled tail straightened out for greater balance, when running flat-out at their top speed.
The Basenji is alert, energetic, curious and reserved with strangers. The Basenji is somewhat aloof, but can also form strong bonds with its owner. They typically are one person dogs. Basenjis may not get along with non-canine pets. Basenjis dislike wet weather, can easily climb over chain wire fences, and are very clever at getting their own way. The Basenji has the unique property of cleaning itself like a cat. It can be described as frisky, tireless at play, and teasing the owner into play. Some will even stand on their hind legs when curious about something. Most Basenji problems involve a mismatch between owner and pet so it is important to understand all the characteristics of a Basenji before attempting to own one.