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!
Because while it’s true that…
A “Chinook” is all of these, what we’re here to talk about today is the hardy farm dog that has a passion for pulling sleds and working hard.
Now if you’re not…
Super familiar with exactly what a Chinook dog looks like don’t fret because you’re not alone. You see, the Chinook is a “relatively” rare dog breed but one 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 things he’s done something wrong.
And while it’s not…
Know for certain, most believe that the Chinook dog breed originated when a Husky and a “mut” 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 really take much notice, however with this particular pairing, what resulted was a working dog of such caliber, that a great many folks did take notice which is why we find ourselves writing about this particular pairing today.
Origin of the Chinook Dog Breed.
The Chinook Dog Breed is a northern dog breed that was created when one 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, and to pull his own 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 who are utterly devoted to the breed, and are looking for others out there that share their same passion.
And what will he look like?
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 coat to keep him warm that is a little rough, and an under coat that is soft and wispy.
This northern breed has a short muzzle that the AKC describe as “aquiline” and he has almond-shaped eyes that sometimes come in black!
They are solid, steady-built dogs that have strong, muscular bodies and 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!
And will he behave himself?
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 actually want to kill anything.
But be warned…
While these dogs can be housed in an apartment, these dogs need to run and get all that pent up energy out – or your furniture, shoes or anything else he or she can get their jaws on are likely to suffer the consequences!
Chinook’s and kids
Chinooks are perfect family dogs. Their kind and gentle nature make them a perfect companion animal for just about any family including those with small children. They are also extreme loyal and will be there to protect and serve your family for life.
So…
If you’re on the lookout for a working dog that will still be the perfect family pet then the Chinook might be just the breed you are looking for. Strong and capable, yet flexible and endearing; this breed will fit into your family so easily that you will wonder how you ever managed without him.
Can you tell…
That we’re a bit “sweet” on this particular dog? If not, let us just confess for the record that we here at IndulgeYourPet love the Chinook breed. But just remember… if you’re having problems with your Chinook, it’s probably because you’re not the “right” owner for him or her.
Chinooks…
Need plenty of exercise and time to just 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 him or her. Because if you do, you’re probably going to find yourself regretting your decision 6 months from now why your Chinook is “acting up” because he or she isn’t happy!
Is the Chinook dog breed a healthy one?
The Chinook tends to be reasonably healthy on account of his mixed breeding. The Chinooks history actually 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.
In spite of this…
Lack of breeding (for want of a better term) the Chinook has a few health worries you ought to look out for. He is prone to:
- Hip dysplasia,
- and also, cataracts.
Both of which are treatable conditions if detected early enough.
Which is why…
Your biggest medical concern if you do decide to purchase a Chinook puppy will be the risk he or she may face due to injury. Remember, this is a very active dog, and any time you have an active dog, he or she will face an increased risk of suffering from an accident or injury.
This is why…
If you are considering purchasing a Chinook puppy or better yet adopting a Chinook rescue dog, we would strongly encourage you to also look at what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy on him or here.
For more information about pet insurance policies, feel free to check out our Best Pet Insurance article where we outline some of the differences you’ll find between some of the “best” companies out there as well as links to pricing for your particular dog breed.
