Canada is the birthplace of the ancient and pure Canadian Eskimo Dog breed. These dogs were highly valued by the Eskimo and Inuit people for their strength and skills as sled dogs. They were primarily cared for by women, which made them comfortable around children and naturally kind-hearted. This friendly trait remains in the breed today with proper socialization and care. However, they can show aggression towards unfamiliar dogs, but get along well with other dogs in their pack.
The Canadian Eskimo Dog is a highly energetic breed that needs plenty of exercise. They were specifically bred to pull heavy sleds across vast terrains. It’s important to remember that these dogs thrive in cold Arctic temperatures and struggle in hot weather.
Below, we look at Canadian Eskimo dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Canadian Eskimo, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Canadian Eskimos!
| Dog Breed | Canadian Eskimo |
| Size | |
| Weight | 55-70 lbs (average) |
| Height | 22-28″ (average) |
| Location | Canada |
| Ancestry | Spitz-type Dogs |
| Date of Origin | Ancient Times |
| Group | Working, Hunting |
| Life Expectancy | |
| Price | |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Canadian Eskimo Dog, a breed with an unclear origin, is believed to be descended from spitz-type canines and is closely related to the Greenland Dog. They have been predominantly found in the Arctic region for over 4000 years, particularly among the Eskimo people in Greenland and Alaska. These dogs, known as Qimmiq by the Inuit people, were highly valued by Arctic explorers and were used extensively for transportation and hunting. In the past, the Inuits even utilized the frozen urine of these dogs for medicinal purposes, and their fur was highly prized. However, the popularity of snowmobiles led to a decline in the need for these sled dogs, and their population dwindled drastically between 1950 and 1970 when the Royal Canadian Mounted Police started killing them. The reasons for this action are still debated, with some claiming it was due to health concerns and others asserting it was a form of intimidation against the Inuits.
Fortunately, a breeding program was established in the late 1980s by the Canadian Eskimo Dog Research Foundation, the Canadian Kennel Club, and the Canadian Government, which saved the breed from extinction. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the heritage and culture of the Inuit people in Greenland, leading to increased recognition of the Canadian Eskimo Dog. However, they are still considered a rare breed, despite their historical significance and remarkable abilities as sled dogs and hunters.
🐕 Canadian Eskimo Appearance
The Canadian Eskimo Dog resembles the Malamute or the Husky in look overall. The females have shorter coats and a little finer build than the males, who are huge and muscular. This purebred breed is able to withstand the bitter cold because to its naturally dense, thick coat and stiff hairs. A mane of fur around the neck, which is more noticeable in males than females, is another feature of the Canadian Eskimo Dog. They are strong dogs with deep chests, broad necks, wedge-shaped heads, and short, pointed ears that stand naturally. The almond-shaped eyes are either dark brown or amber in color. They have medium-sized legs. Like a regular Husky, these dogs have tails that curve over their backs. There are several colors available for the Canadian Eskimo Dog, including white, red, grey, sable, silver, black, and liver.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | White, Red, Gray, Sable, Black |
⚡ Fun Fact:
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Canadian Eskimo
These dogs are particularly friendly and compassionate companions since they have been linked to people for a very long time. They are obedient dogs who adore doing their owners’ bidding, yet they may occasionally be loud and talkative. Due to its alertness, bravery, and loyalty, this breed makes an excellent watchdog. They are very simple to train because to their high degree of intellect. They are engaging and vivacious among youngsters and suitable for a family with young children. They get along well with other dogs that respect their position in the pack and are likewise extremely pack-oriented. This dog may engage in physical altercations with other dogs that are not a member of their group. As these canines would view smaller creatures as prey, other pets should also be kept away. They are also capable of becoming destructive, which might result in gnawing and other undesirable habits. It’s crucial to give these large canines a lot of daily exercise.
🤝 Are Canadian Eskimos Friendly or Aggressive?
🐩 Canadian Eskimo Care & Maintenance
Regular brushing is normally sufficient for Canadian Eskimo Dogs, however you might want to increase the frequency when the weather warms and they start to shed. Mats and tangles must always be removed using a brush. Additionally, these dogs will require daily, or at least twice or three times weekly, dental cleanings. This will guarantee that their teeth and gums remain healthy and that they continue to have fresh breath. Depending on how active the dog is, they will also need to have their nails cut, most likely once or twice a month. Your dog’s nails need to be cut if you can hear them clicking on the floor while they’re walking. Every week, all dogs’ ears must also be delicately cleaned. This will aid in ear infection prevention or early detection of developing infections.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $1.50 – $1.90 daily, or roughly $39.00 – $52.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise:
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 14 miles per week, which equates to about 45 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know:
❤️🩹 Canadian Eskimo Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Canadian Eskimo Dog Breed can be:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Addison’s Disease
- Gastric Dilation Volvulus
While minor concerns include:
- Cataracts
- Allergies
- Hepatitis
🤧 Important: Is Canadian Eskimo hypoallergenic? .
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Canadian Eskimo.
⚡ Canadian Eskimo Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Canadian Eskimo a great choice for families with young children?
The Canadian Eskimo Dog is a great choice for families with young children because they are gentle and experienced around kids. They were traditionally cared for by women in the Eskimo and Inuit communities, making them well-suited for family environments.
Is the Canadian Eskimo breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Canadian Eskimo breed is not considered suitable for apartment living. These dogs are active and require lots of exercise, making them better suited for homes with a yard or access to outdoor spaces.
How much exercise does a Canadian Eskimo require compared to other breeds?
The Canadian Eskimo requires a significant amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They were bred for pulling heavy sleds across large areas, so daily exercise is crucial for their physical and mental well-being.
Is the Canadian Eskimo breed known for being good with other pets?
While Canadian Eskimo Dogs are generally well-behaved around other dogs in their pack, they can be aggressive towards dogs that they do not know. It is important to socialize them properly and introduce them to other dogs cautiously. They may not be the best choice for households with other pets, as they have a strong prey drive and may consider smaller animals as prey.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Canadian Eskimo?
Similar low-maintenance dog breeds to the Canadian Eskimo include the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky. These breeds also have sled dog origins and share some similar characteristics.
What are the common health issues that Canadian Eskimos are prone to?
Canadian Eskimos are generally a healthy breed, but they are prone to certain health issues. These may include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Regular vet check-ups and responsible breeding practices can help minimize these risks.
Are Canadian Eskimos known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Canadian Eskimos are known to be intelligent and easy to train. Their high intelligence level makes them quick learners, and they are responsive to positive reinforcement training methods.
Are Canadian Eskimos more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Like many breeds with strong pack instincts, Canadian Eskimos can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. It is important to provide them with mental stimulation and exercise, and gradually accustom them to being alone.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Canadian Eskimo that are suitable for people with allergies?
If someone has allergies, it is recommended to consider hypoallergenic dog breeds rather than breeds similar to the Canadian Eskimo. Breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, or Portuguese Water Dog are known for being more suitable for people with allergies.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Canadian Eskimo are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Canadian Eskimo may be a better fit. Breeds like the Shiba Inu or the American Eskimo Dog (Miniature) are smaller versions of the Canadian Eskimo and may be more manageable in smaller living spaces.
Is the Canadian Eskimo breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Canadian Eskimo breed is generally good with children, but as with any breed, it is important to supervise interactions between dogs and children. They can be playful and energetic around kids, but it is always important to teach children how to properly interact with dogs and respect their boundaries.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Canadian Eskimo?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Canadian Eskimo are quite high compared to some other breeds. They have a thick double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and shedding. During shedding seasons, they will shed heavily and require more frequent grooming to manage their coat.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Canadian Eskimo dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
