Canadian Eskimo Dog

Canadas Last remaining land race species

The Canadian Eskimo Dog, also known as the Canadian Inuit Dog, is a breed with a rich history deeply intertwined with indigenous peoples of Canada’s Arctic regions.

The sad history of the Canadian Eskimo Dog

Recognized as the oldest Canadian dog breed, and the last aboriginal dog of the Americas, the Canadian Eskimo Dog has verged on extinction for almost four decades. In the early 20th century, it was estimated that over 20,000 Eskimo Dogs worked alongside their Inuit counterparts across the Arctic…..fast forward to 2008 and an estimate of only 300 purebred dogs remained on the CKC registry.

Did You Know?

The Canadian Eskimo Dog or Canadian Inuit Dog is a breed of working dog from the Arctic. Other names for the breedinclude qimmiq or qimmit

  • They were once used as the preferred method of transportation by Inuit in the Canadian Arctic
  • The Canadian Eskimo Dog dates back as far as 4,000 years ago to the Inuit or Eskimo people
  • The first dogs arrived in the Americas 12,000 years ago

Breed Standard

While there might not be a universally accepted breed standard, as there is no single breed authority for this dog, here is a general overview of the breed’s characteristics based on common standards as well as a link to the CKC Breed Standard here:

General Appearance:

  • Sturdy, robust, and well-muscled dog with a strong, balanced build.
  • Compact and medium to large in size.
  • Athletic and agile appearance, indicating its capability for endurance and strength.

Head:

  • Broad and wedge-shaped.
  • Powerful muzzle with well-developed jaws.
  • Dark, medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes, conveying intelligence and alertness.
  • Erect, triangular ears of medium size set high on the head.

Body:

  • Straight, strong back.
  • Broad chest and well-sprung ribs.
  • Strong, straight limbs with well-developed muscles.
  • Tail thickly furred, carried curled over the back when alert.

Coat:

  • Double coat consisting of a dense, weather-resistant outer coat and a thick, insulating undercoat.
  • Outer coat straight and coarse, providing protection against harsh Arctic conditions.
  • Profuse mane around the neck and shoulders, more pronounced in males.

Color:

  • Variety of colors including white, black, gray, and sable.
  • Often with distinctive facial masks and markings.

Size:

  • Height: Males typically range from 24 to 28 inches (61 to 71 cm) at the shoulder; females are slightly smaller.
  • Weight: Males typically weigh between 66 to 95 pounds (30 to 43 kg); females are slightly lighter.

Temperament:

  • Alert, intelligent, and independent.
  • Strong prey drive and high energy level.
  • Reserved with strangers but loyal and affectionate with family members.
  • Requires early socialization and firm, consistent training.

Movement:

  • Agile and efficient movement, indicating stamina and endurance.
  • Ground-covering trot with good reach and drive.
  • Legs move parallel to each other, with no tendency to toe-in or toe-out.

This breed standard reflects the typical characteristics and qualities of the Canadian Eskimo Dog, which has historically been bred for pulling sleds and enduring harsh Arctic conditions. However, it’s important to note that individual dogs may vary in appearance and temperament. A link to the CKC Breed Standard can be found here.