Carolina Dog

Found living semi-feral in the American Southeast (notably the Carolinas and Georgia), these pariah-type dogs were noted for survival savvy and social structure. Fanciers stabilized the type into today’s Carolina Dog, retaining a natural look and cautious, observant temperament. The breed is recognized by several registries (e.g., UKC) and appears in AKC’s Foundation Stock Service. In the right hands, they’re devoted companions, sport partners, and enthusiastic hiking buddies.

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A medium, lightly built, square dog with a wedge head and pricked ears.

• Weight: 30–55 lb (14–25 kg)
• Height: Females 17–19 in (43–48 cm); males 18–20 in (46–51 cm)
• Coat Type: Short to medium double coat; harsh, straight outer coat with dense seasonal undercoat
• Coat Colours: Ginger/red to buff/sand; cream; sable; occasionally darker with light points; small white markings permitted
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Large mobile prick ears, almond eyes with dark eye-liner, fishhook/sickle tail (often curled with a hook), tight catlike feet, efficient floating trot

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Simple upkeep most of the year; plan for seasonal sheds.

• Brushing: 1×/week normally; daily during spring/fall coat blow (use undercoat rake/comb)
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed; fully dry to the skin
• De-shedding Focus: Neck/ruff, breeches, tail base, behind ears
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Check ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week; trim nails every 3–4 weeks
• Coat Note: Do not shave the double coat; it regulates heat and protects skin
• Shedding: Moderate, heavy seasonally

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A nimble, smart athlete that needs body + brain work.

• Daily Exercise: 60–90 minutes (split walks, hikes, free running in secure areas)
• Great Activities: Hiking, tracking/nose work, recall games on a long line, agility (moderate), rally/obedience, flirt-pole in short sets
• Suitability: Houses or apartments with robust daily outlets; secure fencing is recommended (prey drive/curiosity)

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Independent, sensitive, and highly observant—clarity and patience pay off.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; short, varied sessions; emphasize relationship and engagement
• Focus Areas: Recall around wildlife, boundary training, door manners/impulse control, “quiet” on cue, calm place/settle
• Socialization: Early, gentle exposure to people/places/sounds; avoid overwhelming situations—build confidence in layers
• Cooperative Care: Normalize handling (paws/ears/mouth) and muzzling for vet visits

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Keep them lean and field-ready.

• Food Type: High-quality all-life-stage/active-breed kibble or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~2–3 cups/day total, split into two meals (adjust to size/workload)
• Diet Advice: Maintain BCS 4–5/9; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; count training treats; fresh water always

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Research, transparency, and socialization plans are key.

• Breeders: Choose preservation breeders who provide orthopedic/eye (± thyroid) results, thoughtful socialization, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Carolina Dog–specific and primitive/spitz rescues; many dogs originate from Southeastern U.S. shelters—ask about temperament and history
• Canadian Resources: Not CKC-recognized; Canadian owners often work with reputable U.S. breeders/rescues. Join local scent-work/obedience clubs (ON/BC/QC/AB) for training and community; review import/transport requirements

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Generally a hardy, long-lived breed; still screen responsibly.

• Orthopedic: Hip dysplasia (screen), occasional patellar luxation
• Eyes: PRA/cataracts reported in some lines—annual CAER exams advised
• Endocrine/Immune: Autoimmune thyroiditis occurs in some dogs—thyroid panel as indicated
• Parasites/Environment: Tick/heartworm prevention for outdoor adventurers
• Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Hips (± elbows), CAER eye exams, thyroid panel where indicated; share multi-generation health history and temperament notes

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Are Carolina Dogs good apartment dogs?
Yes—if you provide 60–90 minutes of daily exercise, enrichment, and consistent training.

Do Carolina Dogs shed?
Yes—moderately year-round with heavy seasonal sheds; regular brushing helps.

Are Carolina Dogs hypoallergenic?
No. They are not hypoallergenic.

How much exercise does a Carolina Dog need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily plus brain work (nose games, obedience, puzzle toys).

Can Carolina Dogs be off-leash?
Use caution—prey drive and independence are real. Practice long-line recalls and choose safe, enclosed areas.

Do Carolina Dogs bark a lot?
Moderate. They’re alert watchdogs; teach a reliable “quiet” and manage door/window triggers.

Carolina Dog vs Basenji—what’s different?
Both are primitive, but Carolina Dogs bark (Basenjis typically yodel), carry a fishhook tail, and have a double coat suited to varied climates.

Are Carolina Dogs good with kids and other pets?
Usually devoted to family with early, gentle socialization; supervise around small pets due to prey drive.

What health tests should breeders do?
Hips (± elbows), CAER eyes, and thyroid panel where relevant—ask to see documentation.

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