Overview
The Carolina Dog descends from free-living dogs found in the remote swamps and woodlands of South Carolina and Georgia, thought to be close to the dogs that crossed into the Americas with early peoples. It is a medium, ginger or fawn dog with a wedge head, prick ears, a fishhook tail and a short double coat, and it looks very like an Australian Dingo.
Primitive breeds keep their wild caution. Carolina Dogs are shy with strangers, bond tightly with their own people, have strong pack and prey instincts, and dislike being grabbed. They are also clean, quiet and athletic. Very few live in Britain.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes a day in two walks suits most adults. The breed trots tirelessly and enjoys long, quiet routes through woodland and open ground more than busy parks.
Let the dog explore on a long line where it is safe. Sniffing and investigating are how this type exercises its mind.
On the walk
- Recall: Unreliable with anyone but the owner, and often unreliable with the owner too. Prey drive and independence win. Secure areas only.
- Strangers: Expect the dog to shy away. Do not let people reach for it; let it keep its distance and keep walking.
- Escape: Primitive types wriggle out of collars and clear fences. Fit a snug harness and clip a second lead to the collar as a backup.
- Other dogs: Pack-minded, fine with known companions and wary or sharp with strangers. Avoid busy dog parks.
Tips for professional walkers
- Earn trust slowly over several walks; let the dog approach you rather than the other way round.
- Choose quiet routes and quiet times.
- Check the coat for ticks after walks in long grass; the breed is drawn to rough ground.
- Keep the lead secure around wildlife; rabbits and squirrels are irresistible.
What to ask the owner
- What does the dog do when a stranger tries to touch it, and how does the owner want you to handle that?
- Has it ever got out of a collar, a garden or a car?
- Are there dogs it already knows and likes, and any it has had trouble with?