Chinook
Alternative names: No commonly known alternative names
History of the breed
The Chinook is a rare sled dog breed originating in the United States. The breed was developed in the early 20th century by Arthur Treadwell Walden in New Hampshire. He wanted to breed a dog that was both strong and fast, and able to withstand extreme weather conditions. The Chinook was primarily used for expeditions and sled pulling, but today it is also known as a reliable family dog. Due to its rarity, it is considered one of the least common dog breeds in the world.
Character and temperament
The Chinook is friendly, intelligent, and devoted to its owner. It is sociable and bonds strongly with its family, making it an excellent family dog. This breed is patient and playful, yet also has a calm, even-tempered nature. Despite its working background, it is less independent than many other sled dog breeds. It is generally friendly toward strangers and gets along well with other dogs and pets.
Physical characteristics
- Shoulder height: 53-69 cm
- Weight: 25-41 kg
- Coat: Thick, double coat that provides protection against the cold
- Colors: Light to dark gold
- Sizes for collars and harnesses:
- Collar: Neck circumference 50-65 cm (size XL)
- Harness: Chest circumference 75-100 cm (size XL)
Care and shedding
The Chinook has a dense double coat that requires regular brushing to remove loose hair. During shedding season, it sheds heavily, requiring daily brushing. This breed is relatively clean and doesn't require frequent baths unless it gets very dirty. Regular ear and nail checks contribute to its overall health.
Movement and activity
Although the Chinook is a sled dog, it has moderate energy needs compared to other working dogs. It enjoys long walks, jogging, and active games, but isn't as demanding as some other breeds. It loves interaction with its owner and excels in dog sports such as obedience and canicross.
Barking
The Chinook has an average bark and is generally not a noisy dog. It uses its voice primarily to warn its owner or when excited.
Good with kids?
The Chinook is an excellent family dog, known for its patience and gentle nature. It gets along well with children and is tolerant, provided it is properly socialized. Its playful and friendly nature makes it a good companion for active families.
Health
The Chinook is generally a healthy breed, but can be susceptible to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Cataract
- Epilepsy
- Stomach torsion (bloat), especially in fast eaters
The average life expectancy is 12-15 years.
Power supply
Due to its active nature, the Chinook requires a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats. An adult dog typically eats 600-900 grams of food per day, depending on its activity level and body weight. It's important to divide meals into two portions to reduce the risk of gastric torsion.
Training and socialization
The Chinook is intelligent and learns quickly, making it highly responsive to training. It is sensitive and responds best to positive reinforcement and reward-based methods. Early socialization helps develop its friendly and confident nature.
Suitability for owners
This breed is suitable for active owners and families who want to spend a lot of time with their dog. The Chinook is a good fit for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a dog that is both energetic and affectionate. It is less suited to an inactive lifestyle or a small living space without sufficient exercise.
Share your experience with us!
These dog breeds are rarely seen in Europe. Have you seen a Chinook? Send a photo of this dog to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!