The Canine Chronicles Directory
Chinook
The Chinook is a large dog that is able to pull light to heavy loads. They have
a broad skull and a tapered muzzle. They should have black markings on the inside
corners of the eyes as well as tawny to black markings on the ears and muzzle. The
almond-shaped eyes are dark brown to light amber and the ears are well-furred, medium-sized
and set wide apart on the head. The neck of this breed is strong and the skin is
pliable but does not form a dewlap. The topline of the back is straight and strong
with a slight arch over the loin. The feet are oval and firm and have moderately
webbed toes. The Chinook has a saber tail with an overall well-furred appearance.
When the dog is alert, it is carried in a graceful sickle curve. The double-coat
is medium in length and has a thick, soft and downy texture undercoat. The Chinook
is tawny in color.
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Temperament
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The Chinook is calm, a willing worker, friendly and not aggressive though he may
be reserved with strangers and unfamiliar surroundings. This breed is use to working
in team and is not dog aggressive. This breed has a strong sense of loyalty, is
highly intelligent and easily trained.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 23-27" ; Weight: about 70 lbs.
Female Height: 21-25" ; Weight: about 55 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Chinook is prone to cryptorchidism, hot spots (allergic skin disease), epilepsy
and hip dysplasia.
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Living Conditions
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The Chinook is a working breed and would do better living in the country or with
a large yard.
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Exercise
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This breed needs plenty of exercise to maintain their fitness level.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-14 years
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed should be brushed regularly.
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Origin
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The Chinook is an American breed that was developed by explorer and author Arthur
T. Walden during the early 1920s. Walden's goal was to create a new sled dog breed
that was friendly and powerful with a gentle nature. They also needed to be fast
and have great stamina. He began with Admiral Peary's famous lead dog and a mastiff-type
dog. From this breeding, a puppy named Chinook was born. Chinook was one of the
sled dogs who accompanied Admiral Byrd on his south Pole expedition in 1927 and
became the world's most famous dog of his time. This breed has been maintained by
a few dedicated fanciers. They were recognized by the United Kennel Club in March 1991 and have been recently been accepted by the AKC.
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Group
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AKC Working, UKC Northern Breed
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