Chinook Breed Description
Working Group
The Chinook has a compact muscular frame that suits this gentle sled dog. Their bodies are well balanced, with a deep chest, moderate bone, and flexible musculature. The skin on the head is tight with no wrinkles. This breed has a powerful muzzle, and enduring teeth. Their teeth are almond-shaped and moderate size, with an intelligent expression.
Recognized Registries: UKC, ARBA, FORB, CKC, CWNBC, APRI, ACR
Country of Origin: United States
Life Range: 10 to 15 years
Height Range: 21” to 27”
Weight Range: 55 to 70 lbs.
Colors: Tawny (golden fawn)
Trainability: These are dedicated, hard-working and versatile sled dogs. They are calm, non-aggressive, and have a very friendly disposition. A tad strong willed, these dogs need to be taught early who is the leader. Chinooks are easily trained through positive reinforcement, but do not respond well to heavy handed training tactics.
With Children: Most Chinooks make excellent pets for children, especially when the dog is raised with the children.
Other Pets: Chinooks are bred to work in teams and do not exhibit dog-aggression.
Climate: These dogs adapt well to all climates.
Indoor / Outdoor: Chinooks make fine apartment dogs as long as the owner makes a commitment to regular exercise and walking. They do not bark often and can be left reliable, after puppyhood, for long periods of time. Unlike their northern breed counterparts, these dogs do not make good outside pets. They are very sensitive, and isolation from human contact triggers separation anxiety. These dogs should not be kept in a backyard and should always be considered a part of the family.
Exercise Required: Chinooks require moderate exercise. They really only require extended exercise sessions a few times a week and are just as engaged by obedience training as by running. Once exercise is over, the dog will easily entertain itself or rest.
Grooming Required: The coat of the Chinook practically takes care of itself and requires little to no grooming.