The Chinook is an FSS (Foundation Stock Service) breed. That means it isn’t recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, but it will be soon. The breed has been recognized by the UKC (United Kennel Club) since 1991. Breeders of the Chinook and members of the Chinook Club of America (CCA) are committed to obtaining recognition of the breed as well as preserving and celebrating it.

The breed originated in New Hampshire, under the guidance and direction of Arthur Treadwell Walden – a Klondike gold seeker, dog driver and the lead driver on the Byrd Antarctic Expedition in 1929. Walden began developing the Chinook breed in 1917 using Husky stock from a North Pole expedition and Mastiff bloodlines.

Despite facing almost extinction in the early ‘80s, the breed has survived. There are currently just over 800 Chinooks registered with the United Kennel Club, with breeders hoping to expand and grow the breed further.

Typical of most sledding breeds, the Chinook is a hard-working and fiercely loyal dog that loves and adores and active and strong owner. Outside or inside, the Chinook is an agreeable breed that adjusts well, but they still require regular exercise and are happiest when there is a job to do. Though independent, the Chinook can be somewhat clingy and tends to attach itself to one, favored family member.

While the Chinook gets along well with children, they can sometimes have problems with other dogs that may not get their “pack” mentality. As sled dogs, Chinooks have a strong pack mentality and get along best with owners and other dogs that understand and respect that. Try pairing a Chinook with a more submissive breed of an opposite gender for a more harmonious household.

In terms of health issues, veterinarians and breeders suggest that you ask about the dog’s risk for progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, dermatomyositis, and hypothyroidism.

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Chinook - Dogs for Sale