The Dingo, Canis familiaris: Breed: dingo is a member of a group of primitive dogs characterised by short coats, erect ears, characteristic skull shape and teeth and, most importantly an annual breeding cycle. It is a medium built, elegant and active dog of great nimbleness and agility with a head and body length of 860 - 980 mm and tail length of 260 - 380 mm. Adults generally weigh between 10 and 20 kg. The "typical" colour is ginger with white feet, chest and tail tip, although animals of other colours including sable, black, and white are often found.
Dingoes are predominantly carnivorous, but will eat a wide variety of foods including plant material and insects. Their annual breeding season commonly begins in earnest in autumn continuing into winter with litters averaging three to five puppies usually born April - August.
Australia's largest mammalian predator, Dingoes have been present in Australia for at least 3 500 years and perhaps as long as 11 000 years. They have an important ecological role, helping suppress populations of feral animals, and there is anecdotal evidence they help maintain populations of endangered species by excluding introuced feral predators like cats and foxes.
Characteristics
Highly intelligent, strongly individualistic, affectionate, but cautious, Dingoes are highly-skilled, natural predators. Senses of sight, scent and hearing are highly developed. They are strongly territorial and form lifetime bonds with family, either Dingo or human. Cat-like in their agility, Dingoes use their paws like hands, and like to survey their surroundings from a height.
Although they seldom bark, Dingoes have a wide variety of vocalisations from melodious singing (howling), to the high pitched yodel, yelp, crow and purr.
Australian Dingo Breed Description
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