The Journey to my first new guinea singing Dog
“Once I realized they were not the wild dogs I was lead to believe, my real journey began”
I was first introduced to the New Guinea singing dog through a Dogs 101 episode over 12 years ago. I was instantly captivated, drawn in by their natural look and their beautiful singing, but my quest to own one would start much later. In my initial introduction to the breed, New Guinea singing dogs were always made to seem difficult to own and were even described as wild. Once I realized they were not the wild dogs I was once led to believe, my real journey began.
That journey started 6 or 7 years later when I was searching for training advice for my current modern breed, the German Shorthaired Pointer. I connected with a trainer who was part of the primitive dog community. To my surprise, they, along with various others in this community, had owned New Guinea singing dogs. This renewed my quest for more knowledge and understanding of these dogs. I followed the singing dog community for many years, asking questions, gaining knowledge, and seeking out the truth behind these melodious pets..
Throughout my years, I gained a lot of information and learned that many articles and websites were inaccurate. They claimed I would need bars on my windows and could never expect a singer to be fully housebroken. But, I knew a group of passionate individuals who raised and owned Singers alongside other pets and children. I quickly saw that they were NOT the wild dogs Dogs 101 and others made them out to be. It was during those years and conversations I knew that I would one day bring a Singer into my home. I wanted to immerse myself in ensuring the future and well-being of this breed.
Now, over 12+ years from my initial introduction to the New Guinea singing dog, I am finally 1 week away from bringing home my first pure singer puppy. To say I am excited is an understatement. I have been prepping and shopping for weeks, counting down the days until I can finally hold her in my arms and welcome her home.
Thanks to years of mentorship and an amazing group of long-time singer owners at my disposal, I feel prepared for this. Although, I am a bit cautious and nervous, as with any new experience.
I wonder what her personality will be. Will I be successful in raising a good ambassador for the breed? Will we be able to continue to spread awareness and interest for potential future owners? Will I be able to make the community proud and grateful they chose me to bring this little girl home and raise her?
It will take time to know the answers to those questions, but I do know she’ll be loved and so spoiled.
What am I expecting in bringing my first singer home?
As with any puppy, I expect a few sleepless nights. It will be the first time she’s away from her mom and the people she has known and loved for her first 8 weeks of life. I’m sure I’ll spend many hours comforting and loving her as she transitions to her new normal and adjusts to her new environment.
Knowing she is a primitive breed, I expect to have to build some engagement early on and put the time and effort into building a bond that allows us both to communicate our expectations and needs. This won’t happen overnight and will be a training journey we go through together.
New Guinea singing dogs can be at times aloof with strangers and unfamiliar dogs, so I expect to have to work on socialization skills and some skills in being neutral in new environments. We’ll plan some training outings and socialization days to meet and spend time with new people.
Additionally, I anticipate some unique challenges as I welcome this rare breed into my home. Their distinct vocalizations might take some getting used to, and I'll need to be patient and understanding as she expresses herself through her singing. I also plan to provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys and activities to satisfy her primitive instincts.
Most of all, I am expecting a dog who enjoys the comforts of a warm fireplace and a fuzzy blanket and, of course, the love and compassion of her new family. As we embark on this journey together, I am eager to witness the growth of our bond and the unique personality that will undoubtedly make her a cherished member of our household.
