Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is characterized by degeneration of the retina resulting in progressive vision loss leading to total blindness. This Basenji PRA is caused by a mutation in the S-antigen (SAG) gene.
Pyruvate kinase deficiency in the Basenji is a chronic, severe hemolytic anemia caused by defective production of the enzyme pyruvate kinase. Signs in affected dogs may include lethargy, low exercise tolerance, and fatigue.
Two variants in the Keratin-71 gene are associated with curly hair in dogs. Dogs with these curl variants have curly coats or wavy coats depending on how many copies of the allele they possess.