Canadian Eskimo Dog

The Canadian Eskimo Dog is one of the oldest native dog breeds in North America, with a long history of working hard as both a hunting and draft animal in the Arctic Circle. Unfortunately, this breed is not only rare but also endangered; nonetheless, recent efforts to preserve it are starting to show signs of success.

The gentle and loyal Keeshond is more docile and pliant than other Spitz breeds, like the Greenland Dog. It’s also very trainable which makes it an ideal companion dog; however, given its athletic nature and need for vigorous exercise, many owners find it difficult to provide enough activity in a domestic setting – meaning that this breed is rarely kept as a pet.

With its strength and endurance, the Eskimo Dog was a great companion for sledding. However, it wasn’t as fast as other breeds like the Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute; this caused them to slip out of fashion during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Developed in isolation for hundreds of years, the Eskimo Dog has all the characteristics that are seen in other members of its Spitz family. It’s designed to pull sleds and harnesses, with an incredibly strong neck and deep chest cavity – both essential for providing hours-long strength needed to pull multiple times its own weight over snow or ice.

Often misclassified as a gentle wolf due to its wide, triangular head and plush muzzle, powerful jawline, bright brown or yellow eyes that are spaced apart from each other and two constantly-upright ears. Its overall look is one that evokes strength yet kindness.

The glorious Canadian Eskimo Dog is a large breed marked by its impressive double coat, comprised of both stiff outer hairs and an unyielding layer of softer ones. Males tend to possess longer hair than females, particularly around their neck and shoulders where it forms a majestic mane. All colors and patterns are accepted according to the breed’s standard. On average, these stately dogs weigh between 66 and 88 pounds.

It is no surprise that Eskimo Dogs are strong-willed and stoic. On the other hand, these Arctic breeds can be surprisingly submissive when around people – many describe them as being naturally inclined to comply with a human’s authority rather than challenge it. The hard workers have intense loyalty for their owners and love spending time in groups; therefore, Canadian Eskimo Dogs should not be kept alone but instead require companionship of their own kind.

Exercise is essential to the wellbeing of a Canadian Eskimo Dog. It requires and desires long periods of activity each day, meaning that a walk in the park just won’t suffice. Sledding or cart pulling should be encouraged as early on as three months old – which was when Inuit trainers would begin their pup’s education – due to its natural inclination to haul heavy loads.

Canadian Eskimo Dogs’ thick fur doesn’t require much effort, however brushing it weekly is beneficial for both hair growth and the removal of loose hairs. During the autumn season, shedding may become more frequent – consequently calling for daily brushed during this period. Aside from that, these dogs have a very mild scent so seldomly bathing them should be enough to keep their coats in excellent condition!