Chinook dog
Originally a sled-dog, Chinook is a rugged working dog, who loves children and is usually known for its affection, patience and intelligence.
Breed Profile
Height
20 – 27
Inches
Weight
50 – 90
Pounds
Life Span
13 – 15
Years
Health
health
Hip Dysplasia
What is it?:
This genetic health issue is the one where the hip joint loosens up which causes dysfunction and pain. Over time, this may result into arthritis, muscle atrophy and limitations in mobility
Clinical signs
Staying in bed instead of going out
Decreased range of motion
Difficulty or reluctance in climbing stairs, rising up, jumping or running
Loss of muscle mass in the thighs
Noticeable enlargement of the shoulder muscles as they compensate for the hind end
Flinches when the lower back muscles are touched
Treatment
Treatment may include surgery and chiropractic therapy.
Eligible vet bill
$3,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Calm
Chinooks do not have a lot of aggression towards other dogs or pets given their history of working mostly in a team
Enthusiastic
These dogs are always willing to learn and train and possess high energy levels for the same
Family Dogs
Chinook Dogs are great family companions with a special thing for children as they love being with them
Lifetime Care
Coat
Chinook dogs have a double coat with medium length hair on the outside and a thick but soft undercoat beneath
Colors
Chinooks can be found in fawn, red gold, silver fawn, tawny, palomino and grey red shades
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
An easy to care dog breed, Chinooks only need a weekly brush to keep them fresh and young looking. Higher frequency may be needed during shedding season. Nails should be trimmed regularly.
Training
Always eager to train, obedient and agile, Chinooks are very easy on the training front. You can start training them once they are 6-8 weeks old. Just remember to limit the training to not more than 10-15 mins per day as they even get bored easily.
The word Chinook is an Inuit word for ‘Warm winter winds’ and was first developed by a polar explorer Arthur Walden back in 1900s in New Hampshire in the United States. He used him majorly for sled-driving. At a point of time, this species was almost extinct and was even listed in the Guinness World Records Book as the rarest dog breed. Even today, only about 100 new Chinook puppies are born every year.
Chinook Dog: Introduction to the Breed
There is nothing much that would worry you if you are planning to adopt one of the heelers. But it is important to know more things before we make the decision. Key features to note here are -
Chinook Dogs are generally:
Highly energetic and active
Very calm and obedient
Highly trainable and agile
Natural hikers, trekkers, climbers and swimmers
Sensitive with a pleasant demeanor
Chinooks are best suited for –
Experienced dog owners
Families with kids
Individuals into sports who can feed the sporty trait of these dogs
Cautions as a Chinook Dog parent
Experienced breeders recommend that only high-quality dog food should be fed to these dogs as they are known to getting over-weight. The calorie consumption should be properly monitored and high protein content in the meals should be ensured. Giving treats during training is normal but limit them to avoid obesity. There are several human foods that dogs can eat in general but do ensure that you read about the risks and advantages of each before feeding them.
How to train a Chinook Dog?
You can start training your Chinook puppy as early as when it is a mere 6-8 weeks old.
In the beginning you can teach him basic stuff like to sit, come and stay.
Just like human babies, Chinook puppies are very easily distracted. So, make sure you keep the toys away.
You can start potty training once it is 10-12 weeks old.
Once they enter adulthood, you can start challenging their agility skills by training them on more difficult tasks and tricks
Always use positive reinforcement to train them
Train them in batches of 10-15 mins instead of one long session
Things to watch-out before deciding to own a Chinook Dog
The Chinooks are a beautiful companion, no doubt. But there are some things one should consider before deciding to adopt.
They cannot be left alone for a very long time
Although very good watch-dogs, they are not known to be protective or aggressive as they will leave it at barking as a warning
They need consistent training. If not fulfilled, they can get depressed or hyper-active
They have a natural instinct of pulling. So don’t be surprised to see it pulling on your pants
If Hollywood has made you want to play fetch with your dog in a park, then a Chinook might not be a great option
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a gentle, calm, loving and affectionate dog, the Chinook is a good choice. It will be a perfect companion to your family and especially kids and is welcoming towards guests as well. Keep them satisfied with sufficient physical activities and they will be happy. Just don’t leave them alone for a very long time. But don’t worry for a few hours as they even enjoy some relaxing lounge time.
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