Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Chinook?

The Chinook is one of a few American breeds of dog. The breed was developed in Wonalancet, New Hampshire by explorer/author ; Arthur T. Walden. The Chinook dog was Waldens' vision of the ideal sled dog. Originally, the breed was known as Waldens dog and later the breed took the name of Chinook from the name of the foundation sire of the breed. The Chinooks are most famous for their trip with Admiral Richard Byrd to Antarctica in 1927

What is the breeds origin?

Arthur Walden crossed a St. Bernard mix (Kim) with a descendent of a Greenland Husky (Ningo) which resulted in a litter born on January 17, 1917. From this litter Walden selected a puppy later named Chinook who became world famous as a lead sled dog. Walden bred Chinook to working class German and Belgian Shepherds. He then bred these offspring back to these progeny and the Chinook breed was born. The offspring resembled their sire and had his intelligence and gentle disposition. By selectively breeding Walden combined endurance, power and a friendly nature into this breed.

How long do they live?

The Chinook is a slow maturing breed; often puppy like into their 3-4th year of life. Chinooks average life span is 12-14 years and several have attained 14 years plus.

Do they make good family pets?

Chinooks adapt well to family life and prefer the company of their human family. Chinooks can be included in family activities such as camping, boating and vacations. Chinooks are fond of children and made ideal family pets. Often a Chinook will by pass an adult to get the attention of a child.

We work all day; can we leave our Chinook home alone?

Chinooks do poorly in environments where someone is not home during the day. Long periods of time without their family may lead to destructive behavior. Another family pet, such as another dog in the house can help this situation but if your family is absent most of the time a Chinook may not be suitable for your lifestyle.

Will my Chinooks get along with other family pets?

Chinooks must be introduced to other pets slowly. If introduced to farm animals, such as horses, cats and other dogs they do exceptionally well. Small furry, rodent like pets can be at risk (as with many other breeds also) and should be kept in a secure location from your Chinook.

Will they stay in a fenced yard?

Chinooks normally will not jump a four foot fenced yard. They are more likely to dig under a fence and this must be kept in mind.

Will they bark at strangers?

Yes, Chinook will alert you to unusual activities including stranger, however since they are not an aggressive breed they are poor guard dogs and should never be used as such. They normally will stand between a stranger and their family but will slowly retreat.

How much exercise do they require?

For a large working dog the Chinook requires little activity. They are content to settle in with their family for the evening, nap on the kids bed or keep you company reading. However, if you have an active lifestyle the Chinook willingly participates in hiking, jogging, backpacking, sledding and ski-joring.

Do Chinooks still pull sleds?

Yes! Many families recreationally "mush" their Chinooks. The Chinooks were bred to be a sledge dog and cannot compete successfully in races against the smaller Alaskans and Siberians. Matched against other Chinooks and larger breeds such as the Malamute. Chinooks do well. Since they are a slow maturing breed it is not recommended that a Chinook be asked to work hard until they attain their second year of growth. Younger dogs can tag a long for fun or do short sprints until they mature.

I live in a warm climate, can I own a Chinook?

Yes. Chinooks develop a thick double coat in Northern climates but in warmer climates have a much thinner coat.

What should I feed my Chinook.

Any high quality premium brand name dog food such as; (but not limited to) Iams, Purina One, Eukanuba, Pro Plan etc. Chinooks are not normally big eaters. Consult your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.

How big are Chinooks?

Chinooks are a rare breed and there is a natural range of size in the breed. Males average 25 inches at the shoulders and 60- 75 pounds. The average female is 23 inches at the shoulders and 50-65 pounds.

How would you describe their appearance & temperament?

The Chinook is a Tawny colored dog. All shades of Tawny, ranging from palomino, a reddish gold or a silver fawn color are acceptable. A Chinook should be alert and inquisitive by nature and is never aggressive. The Chinook is a loyal family dog, playful and wonderful with children and eager to please. The Chinook is an intelligent working dog that is easily trained to assist the handicapped or perform in agility classes. Intelligence, and a calm non -aggressive nature are prime characteristics of the Chinook. They are reserved with strangers but should not be overly shy.

Do they have any health issues?

Illnesses and disorders seen in Chinooks are no different than in the general population of dogs. The Chinook dogs are thankfully very healthy. Hip dysplasia is always a concern in a large breed and has been seen in the Chinook. Breeders screen their Chinooks for this inherited hip defect. While dysplasia has been diagnosed in Chinooks very few have shown any symptoms. Several registries for dysplasia have been established for the Chinook and Chinook Worldwide has appointed representatives with these organizations. (See related links homepage)

How do I acquire a Chinook?

Contact a breeder and establish a relationship with them. Meet their Chinooks if possible or another Chinook owner. Request a color brochure from the breed club. Ask for photos of the sire and dam. Since Chinooks are a rare breed and breeders are working slowly to restore the breed the number of litter per year varies but has normally been under a dozen litters a year.

What is the cost of a Chinook?

The cost of a Chinook is set by an individual breeder and does vary. You can expect to pay $600.00-$1,000.00 plus transportation costs for a Chinook. Factors affecting costs include the breeders determination of whether your Chinook is potential breeding stock. A breeder may ask to meet with you before acquiring a puppy and also may request that you pick up your puppy directly from the breeder. You will be asked to maintain vaccinations throughout your dogs life and may be asked to have your dogs hips x-rayed whether you breed or not.