Read About Chinook

A rare but wonderful dog, the Chinook is intelligent and dedicated to people. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Large dogs

2. Weight:

   Average weight of 65-76 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Chinooks have medium-length double coats.

4. Shedding:

   Seasonal shedders -- for about a week, twice a year, the dog will shed a lot; otherwise, very low-shedding dogs.

5. Temperament:

   Calm, non-aggressive, willing, and friendly, the Chinook is a solid working dog. Unlike other Northern breeds, the Chinook needs to be a house dog; left alone or kennels, the breed will develop neuroses and separation anxiety.

6. Obedience:

   Chinooks are quite obedient, and

7. Ease of Training:

   The breed is docile and easy to train.

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   These Northern group dogs are not AKC recognized yet, but are currently accepted as one of their Foundation Stock Service® dogs.

2. Size & Weight:

   Average height of 23-25", and average weight of 65-76 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Chinooks have medium-length double coats.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The most obvious feature of a Chinook will be the intelligent expression in his well-set, almond-shaped, dark eyes. Sometimes the eyes can be as light as amber, but they should not be blue or different colors. Thick, mobile ears (not over large, and with a rounded tip) and a slightly domed skull set off the dog's head. The nose is large, solid black, and projects over the mouth.

5. Body:

   Strong, working-dog body with a compact, muscular frame.

6. Colors:

   The breed standard states that "All shades of tawny from palomino, to silver fawn to reddish gold are allowed. White or buff markings on the face, throat, chest, underside, breeches and toes are acceptable as is white on the tips of the toes. Black masking and black ears are preferred. Overall, the color should appear solid and no white or buff markings other than those listed are allowed. No other colors are allowed."

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-15 years

8. Popularity:

   The Chinook is a very rare dog, indeed. Popularity numbers are not readily available.

9. Habitat:

   The Chinook will be comfortable in most settings, as long as he is with family and walked regularly.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   North America

2. Historical Information:

   Chinooks, as a breed, all spring from the dog named "Chinook," born in New Hampshire in 1917. The pup was unlike his other two littermates or his parents. The sire was a large, mixed-breed dog from Peary's North Pole team and the dam was a "Northern Husky" female. Chinook's offspring bred true to him, and have been bred since by a small group of dedicated fanciers.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Calm, non-aggressive, willing, and friendly, the Chinook is a solid working dog. Unlike other Northern breeds, the Chinook needs to be a house dog; left alone or kennels, the breed will develop neuroses and separation anxiety.

2. Behavior:

   Well-behaved, gentle dogs, Chinooks are intelligent and responsive.

3. Habits:

   Chinooks can be a little sensitive emotionally, while they have enormous physical strength. Training must be gentle but firm to avoid any dominance issues. They do not bark a lot, and can be left alone during the day, but not abandoned.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Few cases of heritable diseases have been reported; of those, the most common are hip and eye disorders.

2. Exercise Needs:

   The Chinook has moderate exercise needs, but should have a relatively long exercise/play session a few times a week.

3. Grooming Needs:

   The breed has minimal grooming requirements.

4. Travel Needs:

   As with any large dog, care should be exercised when transporting Chinooks.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Excellent with other pets and with children.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, double coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.