A Breed Standard is a description of the appearance and characteristics of a breed. In the case of the Dingo, we have an excellent opportunity to preserve a true record of a pure breed of dog as yet unspoiled by man. It is an unfortunate reality that the appearance and temperament of many breeds have been changed almost beyond recognition within a few generations to comply with a fashionable trend.
The Dingo was a close companion of the original inhabitants of Australia. Forced into a feral existence following the European invasion, the breed has been naturally selected for its potential to survive in the wild. As has been said of the Canaan dog, the Dingo may have been fortunate in becoming a feral animal over the past two centuries, as it has been able to develop naturally into an incredibly efficient survival machine of beauty brains and health.
The first breed descriptions were recorded as early as 1788. However, these were restricted to the dog that inhabited the Sydney area, where the first vocabulary of the local Aboriginal dialect gives the word 'tingo' for the native dog in that area.
After this initial wave of interest, the Dingo was then relegated to the role of the 'unwanted'. General ignorance of the breed left it vulnerable to greatly exaggerated stories of destruction and pure supposition. Later descriptions which reflected the general feeling for the breed, simply refer to it as being 'a yellow dog with a bushy tail and evil expression'.
As a result of Australia's regional and climatic extremes, there are considerable variations to be found in the Dingo. The dog found in the tropical north with its short, single coat, very pliable skin and sinewy body, contrasts vividly with the fox or coyote-like dog of the cooler southern mountain regions which has a dense, double coat. Physical and behavioural characteristics also vary, as do hunting techniques. With the acceptance of this document, and hoped for approval for the legal and informed keeping of the Dingo by private individuals, the way will then be clear for the breed to participate in obedience training classes and trials run by the various controlling bodies. Familiarity with the breed could be developed by non-competitive displays or parades at official functions.
To protect its welfare it is recommended that the breed's participation in the Breed Ring be delayed until it is better understood. It is hoped that the Dingo, our National Dog, can be protected from becoming a fashionable pet. Only through education on the very special needs of this natural predator can this be accomplished.
The Dingo is a highly skilled hunting dog, a supreme sight hound which also uses scent and hearing to hunt. Being extremely intelligent, independent, cautious and agile, with strong reasoning powers, it is not suitable for pet owners generally. Successful integration into the domestic environment requires understanding, patience and dedication. It is a commitment for the lifetime of the Dingo.
Skeletal remains indicate that the Dingo has remained unchanged for over 3,000 years. Being Australia's native dog, breeders have an added responsibility to ensure that the dingo of the future will be recognisable as the dingo of the past.
A basic description of the Australian Dingo was first drawn up in May 1975 by Berenice Walters who later formed the Australian Native Dog Training Society of NSW Limited. The document was revised in 1976, and again in 1978, then tabled at a Committee Meeting of the Society on 12th August 1978, following a Breed Classification Field Day held at Headquarters, Bargo on 17th June 1978.
This event was attended by Mr Robert Curtis and Mr Peter Warby of the RAS Consultative Committee, All Breeds judges Mr W Spilstead and Mr F S Price and Obedience and Tracking judge Mr Graham Field. Those present had the opportunity to see some thirty Dingoes paraded along with Basenjis and Pharaoh Hounds. It was a most interesting and informative occasion.
Chairman of the Society's Consultative Committee, Mr F Wirrer, and Mr Warby then met to discuss the contents with Mrs Walters, and on January 5th 1979, with Mr Price in the Chair the revised document was further discussed. At the next meeting of the Society's Consultative Meeting on 19 November 1979 attended by Mr Curtis, Mr Warby, Society Secretary the late Malcolm Tellesson, Society Vice President the late Mrs Felicity Maclean the revised document was discussed with Mrs Walters.
After consultation with Society Veterinarian, Dr J Della-Vedova, Mr Wirrer, Mr Price, Mr C Walters and Mrs A Green, the document was again revised and tabled on March 22nd, 1980. Copies were sent to all members of the Committee and Society Consultants, requesting their further comments. We are greatly indebted to the late Dr H Spira B.V.Sc., MRCVS for his most valued assistance and comments in the drawing up of this final document. Dr Spira was a Councillor of the Royal Agricultural Society, and past Chairman of the RAS Kennel Control's Consultative Committee and Judges' Examination Committee.
Conservation Through Education>