The Carolina Dog is a unique medium-sized breed that shares many traits with its ancestors. This breed is quite rare and not commonly found outside of the southern United States. Unlike other domesticated breeds, the Carolina Dog does not seem to suffer from the typical health problems associated with overbreeding.
Despite its rarity, the Carolina Dog is known to be great with children. However, it is important for this breed to be part of a family with a strong leader who can establish their position in the hierarchy. Additionally, the Carolina Dog tends to be wary of strangers and may not easily trust them.
Below, we look at Carolina Dog dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Carolina Dog, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Carolina Dogs!
| Dog Breed | Carolina Dog |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 33-44 lbs (average) |
| Height | 18-24″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Pariah Dog, Native American Dog |
| Date of Origin | 1200s |
| Group | Companion, Small Game Hunter |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Price | $800 – $1000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
Historians believe that the Carolina Dog, a breed with similarities to the Pariah Dogs from Asia, originated in North America around 9,000 years ago. Evidence of dogs with similar bone structure to the Carolina Dog has been found in ancient Native American burial sites. However, written records about the breed were not kept until approximately forty years ago. Dr. I. Lehr Brisbin, Jr. , a biology professor at the University of Georgia, began researching the breed and discovered Carolina Dogs living in remote swamp areas of South Carolina that strongly resembled Dingoes. While some of these dogs were not domesticated, breeders specializing in the Carolina Dog were also found.
It is believed that these dogs were trusted companions of Native Americans and migrated with the tribes. While retaining much of their wild nature, they also served as hunting companions and village dogs. The Carolina Dog is still considered a primitive breed, preserving many of its ancestors’ instincts. Currently, there are more domesticated Carolina Dogs than feral ones in the deep south of the United States.
Ecologists, including Dr. Brisbin, are leading expeditions into the swamps of the Savannah River basin to search for purebred Carolina Dogs. When these dogs are found, they are placed in pre-approved foster homes and trained for hunting and companionship. The United Kennel Club recognizes the Carolina Dog and allows it to compete in all UKC sanctioned events. As of July 2017, the American Kennel Club has accepted the Carolina Dog into their Foundation Stock Service.
🐕 Carolina Dog Appearance
The medium-sized Carolina Dog closely resembles the wild or Pariah canines that are still present in the wetlands of the Deep South. He has a long, curving tail that is big and upright, but not carried high like a Spitz breed. He has almond-shaped, dark brown eyes. He should have black eye rims. Although a brown or self-colored nose is appropriate in lighter-colored dogs, the dog has a big nose with wide nostrils. The thick, short coat of the Carolina Dog is. Compared to his bulkier, thicker winter coat, his summer coat is significantly sparser. Short, thick, and velvety describes his undercoat. Although his topcoat is longer than his undercoat, it is still seen to be short. He has coarser guard hairs on his back to protect him from the underbrush, and it is straight and rough to the touch. Black and tan, solid cream, red ginger, yellow, red sable, and orange are the available colors for the Carolina Dog.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Cream, Red, Sable, Fawn |
⚡ Fun Fact: Carolina Dog dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Carolina Dog
Until he forms a strong relationship with you, the Carolina Dog is not an excessively loving dog. He seems reserved and a little distant. He is naturally suspicious of outsiders and will keep a careful eye on them, but he should never behave violently toward others. He does need early socialization to prevent him from being extremely timid and resentful of any human contact. He does require a strong leader to work with him and correctly teach him so he may become a part of the family who fits in. He hunts naturally, and he frequently brings his family gifts of dead animals. Because he is a group animal, the other dogs in his home will get quite close to him. He thrives in a household with at least one other dog for company because he is such a sociable dog. When little pets are let out of their cages, the Carolina Dog has to be continuously monitored since it has a high predatory drive. He might get along with a cat that he has known since he was a kitten, but you should still keep an eye on him.
🤝 Are Carolina Dogs Friendly or Aggressive?
Carolina Dogs tend to get along well with other pets but may not be the most comfortable around strangers. They are generally friendly towards children, cats, and other dogs. Additionally, Carolina Dogs are known to be generally accepting of elderly people.
This breed is known for being:
- Loyal
- Gentle
- Adaptable
- Reserved
- Primitive
🐩 Carolina Dog Care & Maintenance
The Carolina Dog requires little upkeep. Unless he is constantly shedding, his coat is easy to maintain and just needs a brief brushing once a week. He does have periodic shedding, with the most intense periods occurring twice a year. To make sure all the loose and dead hairs are gone, brush him every day. When grooming, use a slicker brush or a brush with natural bristles. Another option is a deshedder. The Carolina Dog is not a hypoallergenic breed due to its significant amount of shedding. He often doesn’t have a strong fragrance and won’t need many baths. When he is severely shedding, a wash will be necessary to help release the undercoat and speed up the shedding process. He may be given a dry bath in between bathing with a dry shampoo or you can renew his coat by sprinkling baking soda and corn starch together. At the very least once every week, check on him, and wipe his ears as necessary. Every two to three weeks, he trims his nails.
Carolina Dogs experience moderate shedding, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Brushing their fur regularly can help minimize the amount of hair that is shed. The extent of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and breed. Additionally, it is recommended to give Carolina Dogs a bath every 6-8 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.4 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or around $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Carolina Dog dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 10 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Carolina Dog dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Carolina Dog Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Carolina Dog Dog Breed can be:
- Usually A Very Healthy Breed
While minor concerns include:
- Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
🤧 Important: Is Carolina Dog hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Carolina Dog.
⚡ Carolina Dog Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Carolina Dog a great choice for families with young children?
The Carolina Dog is a great choice for families with young children because they are good with children and have a natural instinct to protect their family members. They are also sturdy and can handle the energy and rough play that often comes with young children.
Is the Carolina Dog breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Carolina Dog breed is not considered a suitable breed for apartment living. They have a high energy level and require a lot of exercise and space to roam. They thrive in a home with a yard where they can run and explore.
How much exercise does a Carolina Dog require compared to other breeds?
The Carolina Dog requires a moderate amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They have a high prey drive and enjoy activities such as chasing balls, going for long walks, and participating in dog sports. Daily exercise is important to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Is the Carolina Dog breed known for being good with other pets?
The Carolina Dog breed can be good with other pets, but caution should be exercised. They have a high prey drive and may see small pets, such as rabbits or hamsters, as prey. Proper socialization and supervision are necessary to ensure compatibility with other pets. They may do well with a cat if they have been raised together from a young age.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Carolina Dog?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Carolina Dog include the Basenji, the Shiba Inu, and the Finnish Spitz. These breeds share some similarities in terms of primitive characteristics and independence.
What are the common health issues that Carolina Dogs are prone to?
Carolina Dogs are generally a healthy breed with few known health issues. Since they are not overbred, they do not have the same health problems commonly seen in other domesticated breeds. However, regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are still necessary to ensure their overall well-being.
Are Carolina Dogs known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Carolina Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. However, they can be independent and strong-willed, so consistent and patient training methods are important.
Are Carolina Dogs more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Carolina Dogs can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and provided with mental stimulation. They are social animals and thrive on companionship, so leaving them alone for extended periods can lead to anxiety-related behaviors.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Carolina Dog that are suitable for people with allergies?
There are no specific dog breeds similar to the Carolina Dog that are known to be hypoallergenic or suitable for people with allergies. However, individual allergies can vary, and it is recommended to spend time with a dog before bringing them into a home with allergies to ensure compatibility.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Carolina Dog are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Dogs similar in size to the Carolina Dog that are suitable for individuals or families with limited space include the Shiba Inu, the Basenji, and the Finnish Spitz. These breeds are medium-sized and can adapt well to smaller living spaces if provided with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.
Is the Carolina Dog breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Carolina Dog breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their natural instinct to protect and their gentle nature make them a suitable choice for families with children who have special needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Carolina Dog?
The Carolina Dog has a short coat that requires minimal grooming. They are moderate shedders and regular brushing is usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. They do shed seasonally, so more frequent brushing may be required during those times.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Carolina Dog dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
