In this article, we’re going to discuss the Chinook dog breed, not the twin-engine helicopter made by the Boeing corporation, or the Salmon hunted by Kodiak Bears somewhere up in Alaska, or even the Yeti from the ice planes of the North Pole as its name suggests! While it’s true that a “Chinook” is all of these, we’re here to talk about the hardy farm dog with a passion for pulling sleds and working hard.
Now, if you’re not…
If you know precisely what a Chinook dog looks like, don’t fret because you’re not alone. You see, the Chinook is a “relatively” rare dog breed that is still easily recognizable once you know what to look for. You see, all Chinooks are going to have a “classic” fawn-colored “double coat” and a set of “perky” ears, which will quickly flatten on his head once he thinks he’s done something wrong. and while it’s not known for sure, most believe that the Chinook dog breed originated when a Husky and a “must” or “mongrel” farm dog breed together sometime during the 20th century in the state of New Hampshire.
Now, in most cases, when two random dogs get together and create a “mutt,” few people will take much notice; with this particular pairing, what resulted was a working dog of such caliber that a great many folks did take information, which is why we find ourselves writing about this specific pairing today.
Origin of the Chinook Dog Breed.
The Chinook Dog Breed is a northern dog breed created when Arthur Walden of New Hampshire bred his mixed breed farm dog with what he described as a ‘northern Husky.’ The already mixed breed mother was thought to carry the genes of:
- German Shepherds,
- Belgian Sheepdogs
- and Canadian Eskimo dogs
And what resulted was a litter that sported one pup good enough to father a long line. His name was Chinook, and that is from whence the breed takes their name today.
The Chinook was bred to be the lead dog on a sled team, pulling his weight and more. He is also a favorable family pet as he loves companionship and has always been around humans, making him lacking in that stubborn streak some breeds carry.
The United Kennel Club…
“Officially” allowed this breed in 1991, while the American Kennel Club set up the Breed Standard for the Chinook in 2010, which is pretty quick given how the AKC can often drag its feet recognizing different dog breeds. There is also a Chinook Owners Association for those utterly devoted to the species and looking for others who share their passion.
Physical Characteristics
The Chinook is a tall dog, with some males standing nearly 30 inches from the ground. He’ll have a tawny-colored coat that lies in a double layer – an outer skin to keep him warm, a little rough, and an under coat that is soft and wispy. This northern breed has a short muzzle that the AKC describes as “aquiline,” he has almond-shaped eyes that sometimes come in black! They are solid, steady-built dogs with strong, muscular bodies that can come in at the hefty weight of 90 pounds – so be prepared to sport a healthy food bill if you decide to invest!
Personality and Temperament
The Chinook has the intelligence of a terrier but without the tendency to bark. They will be alert to everything around them and are likely to leap up and chase – more because of their copious amounts of energy than because they want to kill anything. But be warned, while these dogs can be housed in an apartment, they need to run and get all that pent-up energy out – or your furniture, shoes, or anything else they can get their jaws on will likely suffer the consequences!
Chinooks and kids
Chinooks are perfect family dogs. Their kind and gentle nature makes them an ideal companion animal for any family, including those with small children. They are also extremely loyal and will be there to protect and serve your family for life. So, if you’re looking for a working dog that will still be the perfect family pet, the Chinook might be just the breed you want. Strong and capable, yet flexible and endearing, this breed will fit into your family so quickly that you wonder how you ever managed without him.
Can you tell…
That we’re a bit “sweet” on this particular dog? If not, let us confess that we here at IndulgeYourPet love the Chinook breed. But remember… if you’re having problems with your Chinook, it’s probably because you’re not the “right” owner for them.
Chinooks need plenty of exercise and time just to run around and play. So… if you don’t believe that you’re going to be able to provide this for the Chinook you’re thinking about adopting, don’t adopt them. Because if you do, you’ll probably regret your decision six months from now why your Chinook is “acting up” because they aren’t happy!
Potential Health Concerns
The Chinook tends to be reasonably healthy on account of his mixed breeding. The Chinook’s history shows the “flip side” of over breeding… under breeding. You see, back in ’65’, the Chinook held the Guinness World Record as being the rarest breed worldwide – and ever since then, it has dipped up and down in population terms.
Despite this lack of breeding (for a better term), the Chinook has a few health worries you should look out for. He is prone to:
- Hip dysplasia,
- and also cataracts.
Both are treatable conditions if detected early enough; your biggest medical concern if you purchase a Chinook puppy will be the risk they may face due to injury. Remember, this is a very active dog; any time you have an active dog, they will face an increased risk of suffering from an accident or injury.
This is why…
Suppose you are considering purchasing a Chinook puppy or, better yet, adopting a Chinook rescue dog. In that case, we strongly encourage you to also look at what it might cost to buy a pet insurance policy for them.
For more information about pet insurance policies, check out our Best Pet Insurance article, where we outline some differences between some of the “best” companies and links to pricing for your dog breed.
