A sturdy, athletic sled dog with a close-lying double coat: a straight, harsh outer layer over a short, thick, soft undercoat. It is shown natural, without trimming.43
Colourstawny, from light honey to deep reddish-golddilute tawny43
Personality what they are like
A calm, friendly and dignified dog that is affectionate and playful with its family and especially fond of children. It can be reserved with strangers but should never be shy or sharp, and it is keen to learn.432
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Built to pull sleds, so it enjoys regular exercise and work such as hiking with a pack, sledding, skijoring, weight pull, agility and obedience.25
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The natural double coat needs regular brushing, more often when the undercoat is shedding; no trimming is expected.4
Home where they are happiest
Adapts well to family life when it gets enough activity; its thick coat suits cooler climates and outdoor time.24
Company who they like around
A devoted family companion that likes to be included in household life.42
The story where it all began
The breed starts with one dog, Chinook, born in 1917 on Arthur Walden's farm in New Hampshire, who became a famous lead dog and stud. Walden's dogs combined freighting power with racing speed, and Walden drove on Admiral Byrd's Antarctic expedition. After Perry Greene's death the breed dwindled to only 11 breedable dogs in 1981 before dedicated breeders rebuilt it.325
I stretch in the crisp morning air, my thick coat ready for adventure. My human and I head to the trail, where I pull our sled just like my ancestors did. The kids run beside me, laughing, and I slow my pace to match theirs. After a long hike, we rest by a stream, I dunk my paws and splash them. Back home, I guard the yard with quiet dignity. At night, I lie by the fire, feeling the warmth and love of my pack. Life is simple and full.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
AKC
Working Group; became the AKC's 176th breed in January 2013, after the Foundation Stock Service (2001) and Miscellaneous Class (2010).2
AKC standard
Breed standard approved May 11, 2021, effective August 4, 2021.4
A typical home-care rhythm for a Chinook. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutTrim feathering and feet, or keep a short cutevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Eye wipeGently wipe around the eyesevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Chinook tip
Chinooks can be prone to weight gain and have sensitive stomachs, so choose low-calorie, single-ingredient treats like fresh fruits or vegetables. Always keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories to help maintain a healthy weight.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Chinook, and at what times?
Adult Chinooks do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feed at consistent times each day, and check the food label or ask your vet for the right amount.7
What should a Chinook eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for your Chinook's age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts; avoid these entirely.8
How often should I bathe a Chinook?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your Chinook gets very dirty or has skin issues.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Chinook need brushing?
Brush your Chinook's double coat every couple of days, and more frequently during shedding season. This keeps the coat healthy and reduces loose hair around the house.4Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Chinook's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Chinook need?
Chinooks are built to pull sleds and need daily exercise like hiking, sledding, or agility. Aim for at least a good walk or play session every day to keep them happy and healthy.25Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Chinook's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth ideally daily, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and gently dry them without pushing anything into the canal.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Chinook live?
The lifespan of a Chinook varies by individual, so ask your breeder or vet for an estimate. With good care, they often enjoy many happy years.
Is a Chinook good with children and other pets?
Yes, Chinooks are calm, friendly, and especially fond of children, making them wonderful family dogs. They can get along with other pets when properly socialized.432
Can a Chinook be left alone?
Chinooks are devoted family companions and prefer to be included in household life. They can be left alone for reasonable periods if they have enough exercise and mental stimulation.42
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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