New Guinea singing dog

Canis hallstromi (also classified as Canis familiaris or Canis lupus dingo; taxonomy debated)

Also called New Guinea Highland dog, Hallstrom's dog, NGSD

Alert, curious and independent, with a strong hunting instinct.

Size	Small
Weight	9 to 14 kg (20 to 31 lb)1
Height	31 to 46 cm (12 to 18 in)1
Coat	Short, dense coat
Origin	The highlands of New Guinea.1

Rare breedShort profile

unique, melodious 'singing' howl

very agile and able to climb

clever problem solver

1 2

Personality what they are like

Alert, curious and independent, with a strong hunting instinct. It can be very wary of new situations and strangers, yet with its own people it forms close, affectionate bonds and learns quickly.1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense coat

A slim, fox-like dog with upright ears and a short, bushy tail. Puppies start out a deep chocolate brown flecked with gold, and the white on the face tends to spread as the dog gets older.1 2

Coloursred/fawnbrownblack and tanwhite points1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a New Guinea singing dog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Agile and athletic, it needs plenty of exercise and mental challenge to match its problem-solving mind and climbing ability.1 2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat needs little grooming; owners mainly focus on secure housing, since these dogs are excellent climbers and jumpers.1

Home where they are happiest

Needs very secure, escape-proof space because it can climb and squeeze through gaps; it is not a typical easy family pet.1

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its humans but is territorial and does not naturally live in permanent packs.1 2

The story where it all began

The first specimen was collected on Mount Scratchley in 1897, and a pair captured in 1956 went to Taronga Zoo in Sydney, where scientists named them Canis hallstromi. Most captive singing dogs today descend from those zoo animals, and in 2016 researchers photographed wild highland dogs believed to be their close relatives.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Instead of barking, singing dogs produce a haunting howl that rises sharply in pitch and ends very high.1
2
They can splay their legs sideways and rotate their paws, which helps them climb trees.1
3
In 2016 a field team photographed a group of 15 wild highland dogs in New Guinea.1
4
A Spanish explorer noted small quiet dogs in New Guinea as early as 1606.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named for its unique and characteristic vocalization, which is unlike any other canid, and for its habitat in the New Guinea Highlands.3

Name ideas for your new friend

KiraEchoNovaZuriRikuMayaKaiLaniTaroSukiJasperNala

A day in the life told by a New Guinea singing dog

I start my day with a solo howl from my perch on the windowsill, a melody that says, 'Good morning, world!' After a quick breakfast, I explore every corner of the house, hopping onto the bookshelf, then the fridge top, just because I can. My human throws a puzzle toy, and I solve it in minutes, wagging my tail proudly. In the afternoon, we play chase in the yard; I'm always faster. I end the day snuggled in a blanket nest, purring softly, ready for tomorrow's puzzles.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

None (conservation population): Kept mainly as a conservation population; its classification as a separate species, subspecies or domestic dog remains debated.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my New Guinea singing dog, and at what times?

Feed your New Guinea singing dog at least two meals a day, as this helps match their natural hunger cycle. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily feeding, and you can set regular times that work for your routine.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

What should a New Guinea singing dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid alcohol, caffeine, and raw meat or eggs.1 5 Pet Wiki plan

How often should I bathe a New Guinea singing dog?

Bathe your New Guinea singing dog at least once every three months, or more often if they get very dirty. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a New Guinea singing dog need brushing?

Brush your New Guinea singing dog's short coat weekly to remove loose hair and keep it shiny. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days. This is a quick, easy task that also helps you bond with your dog.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a New Guinea singing dog's nails, and how often?

Trim your dog's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, usually every 3 weeks or so. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a New Guinea singing dog need?

This agile and athletic dog needs plenty of daily exercise and mental challenges to match its problem-solving mind. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and play. Secure, escape-proof space is essential since they are excellent climbers.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a New Guinea singing dog's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily with a dog-safe toothpaste, and never use human toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and gently dry them without pushing anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily teeth brushing and weekly ear checks.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a New Guinea singing dog live?

New Guinea singing dogs typically live around 10 to 15 years. Senior years usually start around age 10, so regular vet check-ups become even more important then. A healthy diet and good care can help them live a long, happy life.1 Pet Wiki plan

Is a New Guinea singing dog good with children and other pets?

This breed is alert, curious, and independent with a strong hunting instinct, so it may not be naturally good with other pets. It bonds closely with its own people but can be wary of strangers. Always supervise interactions with children and other animals, and ask a good breeder for guidance.1 2

Can a New Guinea singing dog be left alone?

This dog bonds closely with its humans and may not do well if left alone for long periods. It is territorial and needs secure, escape-proof housing. For specific advice on your situation, consult a vet or a good breeder.1 2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.