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Chinook

Working Group

Intelligent, loyal and athletic

Chinook

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Breed Overview

Chinook is a versatile and family-friendly breed, embodying intelligence, athleticism, and a gentle temperament. They thrive in active environments where they can engage in regular physical activities and mental challenges. Perfect for those who appreciate a devoted and capable companion, the Chinook excels as both a working dog and a loving family member.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium to large
  • Height Males 24-26 inches (61-66 cm), Females 22-24 inches (56-61 cm)
  • Weight Males 70-90 lbs (32-41 kg), Females 55-70 lbs (25-32 kg)
  • Life Span 12-15 years
  • Coat Medium-length, dense double coat
  • Color Tawny, ranging from light honey to deep reddish-gold
  • Grooming Regular brushing and occasional bathing
  • Temperament Friendly, gentle, and intelligent
  • Energy Level Moderate to high
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Requires regular, vigorous exercise
  • Trainability Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Good with children and other pets; enjoys being part of a family
  • Grooming Regular brushing and occasional bathing
  • Health Issues Prone to hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, and eye problems
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Ideal for families; gentle with kids, loyal, enjoys being part of family activities, adaptable to various household dynamics
  • Suitable Living Space Best with yard space for exercise; adaptable to various homes if given enough physical activity and mental stimulation

About the Breed

Chinooks are known for their versatility, good-natured temperament, and strong work ethic. Originally bred as sled dogs, they are also excellent family pets, known for their loyalty and affectionate nature.

History of the Breed

Arthur Treadwell Walden developed The Chinook breed in New Hampshire in the early 20th century. The breed’s name comes from the original progenitor, “Chinook,” who was part of Admiral Byrd’s first Antarctic expedition. The breed was designed to be an all-purpose sled dog.

United States of American (USA)

Fun Facts About the Chinook

What To Expect When Caring For a Chinook

Health

Prone to hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, and eye problems. Regular health screenings and veterinary check-ups are recommended.

Grooming

Requires regular brushing to manage shedding. Occasional baths and attention to nails, ears, and dental hygiene are essential.

Exercise

Needs regular, vigorous exercise. They enjoy outdoor activities, making them great companions for active families.

Training

Intelligent and responsive to training. Benefits from early socialization and positive, consistent training methods.

Nutrition

A balanced diet is suitable for a large, active breed. Portion control and a regular feeding schedule are essential to prevent gastric issues.

Caring for a Chinook involves meeting their exercise needs, providing consistent training, and regular grooming. They thrive in environments where they can be active and engaged with their families. With proper care, including regular veterinary visits and appropriate nutrition, Chinooks make loyal and loving companions.

Chinook Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

Chinooks, known for their strength and friendly disposition, are generally robust but have certain health predispositions. Awareness of these issues and conducting recommended tests can help maintain their health.

Description: A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis.

Description: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist.

Description: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.

Description: Some Chinooks may be prone to epilepsy or other seizure-related conditions.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis.

Gastric Torsion (Bloat)

Description: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist.

Eye Problems

Description: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.

Seizure Disorders

Description: Some Chinooks may be prone to epilepsy or other seizure-related conditions.

Understanding these common health issues and adhering to the recommended tests and preventive care guidelines can help ensure a long, healthy life for a Chinook. Collaboration with your veterinarian is critical to developing a health care plan tailored to your dog's needs.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Chinooks

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Chinook?

Caring for a Chinook involves various expenses depending on your location, the dog’s age, health, and personal care choices. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

A purebred Chinook puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 2500

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Chinook enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food is suitable for a large, active breed.

Estimated Cost

$400 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Chinooks.

Regular grooming is needed for their coat maintenance.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Chinooks require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Chinook's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Chinook will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 999

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 200

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$3200 - $7899

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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