I worked with a few at the kennel. They're quite common around here. I consider what they do to be a bark, an odd bark, but close enough. I don't get why people call them barkless. The majority I've met were quiet, but some of them love the sounds of their own voice. They can be as noisy as a pack of huskies, and they can make a screaming sound like a toller.

They are quite difficult to work with. Affectionate if you can get their attention, but that is rare. Usually they are off like a shot exploring on their own. I don't even think they notice the humans with them at all. All the other dogs would at least show some sign that they knew I was there when I opened the door to slip the leash on or feed them, the basenjis didn't. They are independent to an extreme. I know some hound breeds are called independent, but they've got nothing on the basenji.

As for shedding, they do shed, much less than huskies though. This is a breed to avoid topical flea treatments or harsh shampoos on because of their grooming.