Carolina Dog

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Carolina Dog is a naturally selected or landracer dog that was discovered roaming around and living as wild dog in remote areas of Southern Carolina by Dr. Lehr J. Brisbin. It is also called the American Dingo, the Dixie Dingo, the Southern Dingo, the Native American Dog, the Indian's Dog or just O'll Yaller Dog. This is a medium size resembles a Jack or a Wolf with features of small sighthound. The head is wedge-shaped with pointed ears, long muzzle and dark, almond shaped eyes. It has a medium length straight back with strong and narrow chest. Neck is strong. Tail is thick and can hang low or curl in a hook. Overall the dog had a ruggedly handsome look. The dog stands between 17-24 inches and weighs between 30-44 lbs.

This breed was accidentally discovered by Dr. Lehr J. Brisbin, a senior research ecologist, while working at the Savannah River site. He saw a number of stray dogs roaming around. On hunch, he went to the pond and was astonished to see so many dogs with remarkable resemblance to the dingoes.

The physical appearance of the dog suggests a breed created by and preserved through natural selection to survive in the remote lowland swamp and forestland regions of Southestern United States.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by UKC.

Color

The dog is found in different colours. Among preferred colours is deep red ginger with pale markings. Acceptable colours are variations in colour, grading from straw coloured through wheaten to pale yellow buff.

Coat

The dog has a distinct coat that changes with changes in weather. The winter coat is distinctly heavier than the summer coat with a wealth of undercoat. On the head, the ears, and front legs, the hair is short and smooth. Coarse, longer guard hairs (longer than the undercoat) extend over the neck, withers and back. When aroused, this hair stands erect. The coat behind the shoulder blades is often lighter in color.

Personality

Being among the very few breeds that have been preserved through natural selection by nature, the Carolina Dog is not a fully domesticated breed. The dog is shy and of suspicious nature. The dog is not outgoing nor is it comfortable around strangers. This dog shows temperament that calls for an excellent family pet once the dog is properly socialized from a very young age. This highly adaptable and amenable to domestication dog is loyal to its master and family. A gentle and pack oriented dog, the Carolina Dog needs and enjoys being part of the family. It bonds very well with children and enjoys playing and taking part in activities with them. Very intelligent and responsive, the dog gets along well with other pets in the family if properly socialized with them from a very young age. It is an independent dog and needs a firm and experienced owner who can establish himself as dogs' packleader. With proper training and socialization, the Carolina Dog makes a very good family pet and watchdog.

Care

The coat is somewhat self-cleaning and will need only weekly brushing. Bathe when necessary.

Training

The dog is responsive and intelligent and can be trained easily provided the owner is ready to put in time and effort in training this dog. It needs consistent and firm trainer.

Activity

The dog is very active and needs jobs to do. It will need to be taken for long walks and allowed free running and playing time.