Northern Inuit Dog: A Guide to History, Characteristics, and Care
Introduction
The Northern Inuit Dog is a unique breed that has gained popularity due to its striking resemblance to the wolf. This breed was originally created in the 1980s in an effort to produce a domesticated dog with the looks and temperament of a wolf. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and care needs of the Northern Inuit Dog.
Northern Inuit Dog History
The Northern Inuit Dog was developed by a group of breeders in the UK, who wanted to create a dog that looked like a wolf but had a friendly disposition and could be kept as a domestic pet. They achieved this by breeding together a variety of breeds, including the German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and Siberian Husky.
The breed gained recognition after it was used in the TV series Game of Thrones, where they played the role of the direwolves. Despite their newfound popularity, the Northern Inuit Dog is still a relatively rare breed, with only a small number of breeders worldwide.
Northern Inuit Dog Breed Characteristics
The Northern Inuit Dog is a large dog with a muscular build and a thick coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, grey, and red. They have a wolf-like appearance, with pointed ears, a narrow muzzle, and a bushy tail.
In terms of temperament, the Northern Inuit Dog is a friendly and sociable breed that thrives on human interaction. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. However, it is important to note that they do have a high prey drive and should be supervised around small animals.
Northern Inuit Dog Intelligence
The Northern Inuit Dog is a highly intelligent breed and is known for its problem-solving abilities. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Northern Inuit Dog Average Size
The Northern Inuit Dog is a large breed, with males typically weighing between 75-110 pounds and females weighing between 55-84 pounds. They stand at an average height of 23-32 inches at the shoulder.
Northern Inuit Dog Child Friendly
The Northern Inuit Dog is a great family dog and does well with children. They are playful and affectionate and enjoy spending time with their human family.
Northern Inuit Dog Health Needs
The Northern Inuit Dog is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Some of the common health issues seen in this breed include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.
Northern Inuit Dog Grooming Needs
The Northern Inuit Dog has a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. They shed heavily, especially during the spring and fall, so regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and keep shedding under control.
Northern Inuit Dog Amount Of Shedding
The Northern Inuit Dog is a heavy shedder and sheds throughout the year. They have a thick double coat, which contributes to their shedding. Regular brushing and grooming can help to minimize shedding.
Northern Inuit Dog Trainability
The Northern Inuit Dog is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy learning new things. They are eager to please and thrive on human interaction.
Northern Inuit Dog Exercise Needs
The Northern Inuit Dog is a high-energy breed that requires plenty of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy long walks, jogging, and playing games like fetch. A lack of exercise can lead to destructive behavior, so it is important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to burn off their energy.
Northern Inuit Dog Average Lifespan
The Northern Inuit Dog has a relatively long lifespan for a large breed, living on average between 10-14 years.
Conclusion
The Northern Inuit Dog is a unique and fascinating breed that has gained popularity due to its striking resemblance to the wolf. They are friendly, intelligent, and easy to train, making them an excellent choice for families with children. However, they do require regular grooming and plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. If you are looking for a loyal and devoted companion with a striking appearance, the Northern Inuit Dog may be the perfect breed for you.