Description

The NGSD is a small-to-medium-sized dog of fox-like appearance with a wedge-shaped head, prick ears, obliquely-set triangular eyes, plush coat, and a brushy tail. The NGSD is extremely agile and graceful. This breed is presented in a completely natural condition with no trimming, even of whiskers. The coat is average to long in length. Colors include red or shades of red with or without symmetrical white markings, black and tan. White markings are common, but should not form more than one-third of the body's total color. White markings are permissible only in the following areas and may not form spots or patches on the body: Muzzle, face, neck (may extend onto the shoulders), belly, legs, feet, and tail tip. The head is fairly broad and the body duly hindquarters are lean and the medium-length tail is soft and fluffy.

Origin

The second largest island of the world, the Island of New Guinea - is home to many strange creatures. This Island is one of the very few that have such a variation of temperature, from the Tropical climate of the lowlands to the mountainous cold on the higher elevations. The New Guinea Singing Dog dwells with natives in the lowlands as well as in the mountains. Explorers in the 1800's described the varying popularity of the dogs in the lowland villages of New Guinea. In some they were treated as pets, while in others they were abused. By this century, hybridization with imported dogs had made the native lowland New Guinea Dog almost extinct. However, in the 1950's two pure dogs were captured in the isolated Lavanni Valley in the southern highlands, and eventually sent to Taronga Park Zoo in Sydney, Australia. In the of Indonesia. Virtually all Singing Dogs in Europe and North America descended from these pairs. This dingo-type dog is a close relative of ancient dogs that were domesticated from Asian Wolves between 10,000 and 15,000 years ago. The breed acquired its name from its howl, which is an undulating and modulating series of tones that blends into a swelling portamento. The musical quality of the sound is unlike that of any other dog, even the most beautiful voices of the scent hounds. The breed is quite rare in New Guinea today, but can be seen in a number of zoos around the world. Today the New Guinea Singing Dog is kept as pets by some fanciers and is recognized by the UKC, which allows them to compete in competition.

Temperament

The New Guinea Singing dog use to be a wild dog, but today, if properly socialized, can be tame enough to tolerate the handling of humans. It is said, that if these dogs are properly socialized, they can be affectionate with their owners. The NGSDs most unique characteristic is its dramatic ability to vary the pitch of its howl. They do not bark repetitively but have a complex vocal behavior including yelps, whines, and single-note howls. NGSDs are active, lively, and alert. They are constantly exploring everything in their environment, using all five senses, including taste. Their incredible structural flexibility allows them to pass their bodies through any opening wide enough to admit their head. Their hunting drive is very intense and may overwhelm any training when prey is detected. They use their acute sense of hearing in addition to sight and scent to locate prey. Although gentle and affectionate with people they know, they can be aloof with strangers. NGSDs can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially of the same sex. Its howl has an eerie yet synchronized quality, which gives the breed its name. The howl can be spurred when the dog is disturbed or excited. One tone blends with the next, sending goose bumps up a listener's back. Opera singers have expressed a particular interest in this vocally skillful canine. This is a hardy and well-balanced dog. The relative. It possesses the erect ears and is a swift hunter with social instincts. Unlike the Dingo, the New Guinea female cycles twice a year in captivity.

Height

Height: 14-15 inches (35-38 cm.)

Weight

Weight: 18-30 pounds (8-14 kg.)

Known Health Problems

The New Guinea Singing Dog is a hardy breed.

Conditions for Living

The New Guinea Singing Dog is not recommended for most families. They are closely related to wild dogs and are almost extinct. However there are some fanciers who properly socialize this breed and they say, if done right, the New Guinea Singing dog can be a very affectionate dog. The Taronga Park Zoo in Sydney, Australia (along with a few other zoos) have a few of these dogs and are trying to prevent them from becoming totally extinct. It can thrive in cold climates and is versatile and adaptable.

Exercise Requirments

walk or jog.

Life Expectancy

About 15-20 years.

Grooming

The weather resistant coat of the New Guinea Singing Dog will take care of itself.

Group

Southern