New Guinea Singing Dog vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

New Guinea Singing Dog vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed ComparisonNew Guinea Singing Dog is originated from Papua New Guinea but Catalan Sheepdog is originated from Spain. New Guinea Singing Dog may grow 17 cm / 6 inches shorter than Catalan Sheepdog. New Guinea Singing Dog may weigh 10 kg / 22 pounds lesser than Catalan Sheepdog. New Guinea Singing Dog may live 6 years more than Catalan Sheepdog. Both New Guinea Singing Dog and Catalan Sheepdog has same litter size. Both New Guinea Singing Dog and Catalan Sheepdog requires Moderate maintenance.

History

new guinea singing dog - historyIn 1957 the New Guinea Singing Dog was “discovered” in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea and he is found no where else. There is a lot of debate among scientists, taxonomists and biologist as to what is really a species and what is a subspecies. When the NGSD was found he was classified as a new canid species then in 2007 they were downgraded to a subspecies.

Today the NGSD is considered to be a wild dog and a primitive dog. They have lived in Papua New Guinea in the Highlands for thousands of years. They are closely related to other wild dogs, such as Australia’s dingo. They are today as they were a thousand years ago – wild. So wild that many counties have them in their zoos.

With the right care and enough socialization, they do very well as companion animals living with people. They are difficult to domesticate however and the person who owns one should be a part of the NGSD community in order to get support, share issues, and learn from others who have lived with these “wild dogs” for many years.

Any New Guinea Singing Dog found in North America or Europe is a direct descendent of two couples that were taken to zoos in China and Australia. The NGSD makes a howling sound that modulates and undulates through a wide series of tones. No other dog makes this musical sound. Rare even in New Guinea today, the Singer is thought to be the rarest of all dogs.

The only organization that recognizes the Singing Dog is the UKC and they are allowed in UKC competition. The NGSD now holds the classification of a domestic dog – a Canis lupus dingo - which is a subspecies of Canis lupus. In 2016 a group of 15 wild dogs were photographed for the first time ever. Prior to this the NGSD were never seen in more than pairs.

It is believed that they do not live and operate in packs, but rather solitary, pairs or family groups where both the parents do the work of raising the pups.

catalan sheepdog - historyThe Catalan Sheepdog, known also as the Gos d’Atura, hails from Catalonia, Spain. It is believed that the dog is related to the Portuguese- and Pyrenean Sheepdogs.

The standard for this breed was formulated in 1929. The sheepdog developed during Roman Empire times between 200 and 100 BC already, being used as livestock guard dogs. With the breed dwindling in the 1970s, Catalonian Sheepdog lovers started promoting it, but it remains a rare breed.

Description

new guinea singing dog puppy - descriptionThe New Guinea Singing Dog is a medium sized dog with short legs and a broad head. They are about average height and they are very limber and flexible. They can rotate their paws and spread their legs at much greater angles than the average canine. Thus, they can easily climb a tree. They can jump like a cat.

They have very reflective eyes that are shaped like almonds and have dark rims. The color of the eye can be dark brown to dark amber. It is also believed that they can see better than other domestic dogs in low light settings. Their pupils let in more light due to pupils that are wider than most other dogs.

The ears of the NGSD are lined with fur, pointed and erect. The are forward laying and can be rotated in order to hear even the farthest and faintest of sounds. There are dark guard hairs on the spine and back of the ears and tail. On young dogs the muzzle is black but by age 7 it is already beginning to turn gray.

catalan sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Catalan is a medium sized dog but gives the impression of being bigger than he actually is. He stands from 45 – 55cm in height and weighs between 20 to 25kg.

This breed also has double dew claws on the hind feet. He has a long coat which is slightly wavy and available in different shades such as fawn to brownish to dark grey to black. He has floppy, feathery ears and a fairly long, feathery tail. He has quite a bit of hair on he face too, so you’ll notice a beard, moustache as well as hair which covers the eyes somewhat.

Temperament

Brave and courageous, the Catalan Sheepdog is also intelligent, active and hardy. He has a round face with a friendly, amicable expression. He is totally pleasant and sweet natured. However, in his role as guardian of sheep he took his role seriously, forming a strong relationship with both shepherd and sheep.

He is wary of strangers. Early socialization and training is always important, and while he makes a wonderful family pet, this training and socialization makes him more relaxed and obedient and he gets on well with children in the home as well as with other pets. While he is a placid, docile and gentle pet, he is also looked upon as a protector, and will defend his family.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

new guinea singing dog dog - characteristicsThey could be, but it must be remembered that this is a wild dog.

Special talents

Varying the pitches when howling

Adaptability

It’s possible but not recommended. Leave them wild.

Learning ability

Highly intelligent but trainability is questionable unless well socialize and attached to their people.

catalan sheepdog dog - characteristicsThe Catalan Sheepdog is such an amicable character – he is going to make an awesome pet. He is an intelligent and obedient dog and is easily trained.

He has been used for guarding- and herding work and as a family pet makes a excellent guard dog as well. Capable of being gentle too, he is everything his human family wants him to be and just becomes a regular member of the family.

Health Problems

Health Problems

new guinea singing dog puppies - health problemsThough the breed is not extinct – it is so wild and secretive that there is no history or record of any health problems. However, the small number of domestic companion animals have shown health issues in recent years.

Pancreatitis – can be chronic or acute. If chronic it needs to be treated and diet changed. If acute it is usually deadly.

Hip Dysplasia – can cause lameness or arthritis.

catalan sheepdog puppies - health problemsThe Catalan Sheepdog is a fairly healthy breed and has a life expectancy of 12, 13 or 14 years. Nonetheless you will still need to watch out with common dog ailments with him, particularly hip dysplasia.

Hyp Dysplasia:

This is a joint and hip disease which can start with symptoms from 6 months of age already. Your dog will be hesitant to play and jump, doesn’t like to go upstairs, tires easily during a walk and develops a hop-like way to walk. You’ll notice that when he lies down, he battles to- or is reluctant to get up again.

X-rays may be required to confirm the diagnosis of hip dysplasia. There are different treatment options, all with the wellbeing of your pet in mind. You don’t want him to have a life of pain and lameness.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

new guinea singing dog dogs - caringIn the wild both pups and adults are thought to eat small mammals and birds as well as fruits. In homes feed a high protein diet. Because of the tendency toward pancreatitis do not feed raw or under cooked meat. If feeding meet do so in small amounts well cooked, very lean. Stay away from the fat. Feed puppies very small amounts. ¾-1 cup high quality dry puppy food twice a day.

Feeding the adult

Same as the puppy when it comes to meat although you could give the adult a little more. 1 ½ cups od high quality medium breed dog food twice a day.

Points for Good Health

In the wild there is no indication of health issue. A very healthy breed.

Games and Exercises

The NGSD needs a lot of stimulation both mental and physical. They must have a daily walk and somewhere to run. They are escape artist in homes. Remember they can jump like cats and climb trees. If their head can pass through a hole, so can the rest of their body.

Exercise:

catalan sheepdog dogs - caringThe Catalan Sheepdog is a working breed, so he is going to need plenty of exercise. While he adapts easily to city- or country life, it will be to his benefit to have a garden to romp in. You will still need to take him for walks and play ball- and rope games with him. This will prevent boredom and destructive behavior from him.

Grooming:

The Catalan Sheepdog has long hair so he will need to be brushed twice a week to avoid matting. This will help to remove loose hair too, but also distribute natural oils through his coat, keeping his hair and skin healthy and free from skin rashes and itchiness.

This brushing ensures other benefits as you can simultaneously check him for parasites such as fleas and ticks.

Diet:

If you feed him commercial dog food, make sure its a high quality one. He is an active breed so will require high protein. Give him some homemade rice, vegetables and meat, and include raw meat in his food from time to time too. Always ensure that there is fresh, cool water constantly within reach.

Basic Information

Group:
Miscellaneous dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
Papua New Guinea
Spain
Height Male:
35 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
47 - 55 cm
18 - 22 inches
Height Female:
32 - 35 cm
12 - 14 inches
45 - 53 cm
17 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
8 - 15 kg
17 - 34 pounds
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 10 kg
13 - 23 pounds
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
15 - 20 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 6
4 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Hallstrom Dog, NGSD, New Guinea Highland Dog, New Guinea Dingo, Singer, New Guinea Wild Dog
Gos d'Atura Català, Catalan shepherd
Colors Available:
Black and tan with white markings, golden red.
Fawn, brownish, dark grey, black
Coat:
weather resistant coat double coat breed
Long coat - fairly wavy
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Curious, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Other - Breed Comparison
  2. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Olde English Bulldogge - Breed Comparison
  3. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Aussie Doodles - Breed Comparison
  4. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Indian Pariah Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Dingo - Breed Comparison
  6. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  7. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Sapsali - Breed Comparison
  8. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Peruvian Hairless - Breed Comparison
  9. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Lottatore Brindisino - Breed Comparison
  10. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Carolina Dog - Breed Comparison
  11. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Mountain Feist - Breed Comparison
  12. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Jonangi - Breed Comparison
  13. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Kuri - Breed Comparison
  14. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Perro de Presa Mallorquin - Breed Comparison
  15. Spitz vs New Guinea Singing Dog - Breed Comparison
  16. Schnauzer vs New Guinea Singing Dog - Breed Comparison
  17. Schnoodle vs New Guinea Singing Dog - Breed Comparison
  18. New Guinea Singing Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  19. New Guinea Singing Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  20. New Guinea Singing Dog vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  22. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  23. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  24. New Guinea Singing Dog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. New Guinea Singing Dog vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  27. Collie vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  28. Dutch Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  29. English Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  30. Catahoula Cur vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  31. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  32. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  33. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  35. Catalan Sheepdog vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  36. Catalan Sheepdog vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  37. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  38. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  39. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  40. Catalan Sheepdog vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  41. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  43. Catalan Sheepdog vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  44. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  45. Catalan Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) - Breed Comparison
  46. Catalan Sheepdog vs Black Norwegian Elkhound - Breed Comparison
  47. Catalan Sheepdog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  48. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  49. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  50. Queensland Heeler vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds