Chinook
Quick Summary
Intelligent working breed ideal for active owners. Best suited for spacious environments with regular exercise opportunities. Key consideration is meeting high activity needs.
Contents
Weight Range
50-90 lbs
♂ Male: 55-90 lbs
♀ Female: 50-65 lbs
Height Range
56-66 inches
♂ Male: 24-26"
♀ Female: 24-26"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Developed in New Hampshire during the early 1900s as a sled dog breed, combining power and speed for freight pulling across challenging terrain
Popularity
#190
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 24"-26" |
| Female Height | 24"-26" |
| Male Weight | 55-90 lbs |
| Female Weight | 50-65 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1500-2500 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary expenses typically range from $500-800 for routine care.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Combines intelligence with a patient, devoted nature. Shows high energy levels balanced by good-natured temperament. Excellent working ethic and strong desire to please make them responsive to training.
Social Needs
Thrives on family interaction and forms strong bonds. Generally good with other dogs and children. Can handle moderate alone time with proper training, but prefers company and engagement.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Chinook showcases a tawny coat with distinctive dark markings. Their athletic build combines strength with agility, featuring a deep chest and well-muscled frame. Distinguished by their gentle expression and intelligent eyes, these dogs carry themselves with dignity while maintaining an approachable demeanor that reflects their friendly nature.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent working companion
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Highly trainable
- ✓ Athletic and versatile
Cons
- ✗ Requires significant exercise
- ✗ Seasonal shedding
- ✗ Not suited for apartments
- ✗ May be reserved with strangers
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Smart, Patient, Devoted |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including hiking, sledding, or jogging. Thrives with high-intensity activities combined with mental stimulation. Best suited for active owners who can provide varied exercise routines.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 3-4 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Active working dogs may need increased portions. Special attention to weight management and joint-supporting nutrients recommended.
Feed 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Include protein-rich foods to support muscle maintenance and joint health supplements for active lifestyle.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to spacious homes with fenced yards. Ideal for suburban or rural settings with room to roam. Tolerates cold climates exceptionally well due to their sled dog heritage.
Requires substantial space with minimum yard area of 500 square feet. Thrives in homes with secure outdoor access. Adaptable to various climates but needs room for exercise and activity.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Born from the vision of Arthur Walden in New Hampshire, the Chinook breed emerged from a single foundation sire named Chinook. The breed was developed to create the perfect sledding dog, combining speed, power, and a gentle temperament.
Historical Purpose
Developed in New Hampshire during the early 1900s as a sled dog breed, combining power and speed for freight pulling across challenging terrain.
Fun Fact
The Chinook holds the distinction of being the official state dog of New Hampshire since 2009.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise routine. Monitor joint health due to working dog heritage.