Four basenji puppies sharing a dog bed together

Welcome to
Bonanza Basenjis

Raising well-bred Basenjis for loving homes since 2009

At Bonanza Basenjis, every puppy is raised to be a wonderful family companion. Since 2009, our focus has been health, temperament, and matching the right dog with the right home.

Our Story

Our journey began when founder Bridgette Lesar welcomed her first Basenji, sparking a lifelong commitment to the breed’s preservation. With a deep respect for the Basenji’s heritage, Bridgette partnered with Cecily Rappe of Zindika Basenjis. Cecily Rappe is an American Kennel Club Breeder of Merit. Both Bridgette and Cecily are members of the Basenji Club of America whose legacy dates back to 1982.

Preserving Excellence

Our program is built on the foundation of Cecily’s vast experience, including the breeding of CH Zindika’s Johnny Come Greatly JC, an exceptional Basenji whose legacy informs our program today. Through this partnership, we’ve cultivated a breeding program focused on health, temperament, and sound structure. Every Bonanza Basenji is well-bred with careful attention to health, temperament, and genetic soundness — because a great companion starts with a great foundation.

A basenji puppy cradled securely in its owner's arms, gazing up at the camera with a trusting expression and gentle curiosity

Our Commitment

Choosing a Bonanza Basenji means joining a community that values the breed’s past, present, and future. We’re committed to:

  • Matching families with well-bred Basenjis who are first and foremost wonderful companions.
  • Offering lifetime support for every puppy and owner
  • Educating others about Basenji care and history
  • Acting as dedicated breeders to the AKC Basenji Breed Standard.

Whether you're a lifelong Basenji lover or new to this extraordinary breed, we’re honored to be part of your journey. At Bonanza Basenjis, we don’t just breed — we preserve. And every dog we raise is a reflection of that purpose.

Our Dogs

Our goal is to match basenji lovers with the ideal dogs and support the owners for the lifetime of their dogs.

Two different colored basenji dogs tilting their heads inquisitively in opposite directions A basenji standing on a rock while overlooking a forest Two basenjis looking alert while roaming around out in the desert Two basenjis running together in a grass Close up of a you basenji in a hardness while at a shoreline A basenji with it's ears perked up while sitting on a dog bed Four basenji puppies sharing a dog bed together A basenji puppy being held in its owners arm Two basenji puppies out in a yard with a plasstic step-stool, one sitting ontop of it and the other leaning on it with their front paws Close up on a young basenji puppies face A basenji resting inside a circular fabric dog house A basenji running through a field in a yellow pet dress