Northern Inuit Dog Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Northern Inuit Dog?

You may be surprised to hear that the Northern Inuit dog is a relatively new breed that has only been around since the 1980s. The breed was inspired by legends that describe how the Inuit people used to mate working dogs with wolves to improve their stamina and strength.

When creating the Northern Inuit dog, breeders in Britain specifically set out to breed domestic dogs that had a wolf-like appearance. This group of breeders established the Northern Inuit Society, which is still the main governing body and authority on the dog.

For the past two decades, Northern Inuits have been carefully bred with other dogs of the same breed, with any outcrossing strictly frowned upon. Thanks to this approach, the Northern Inuit dog can now be considered an established breed with its own distinctive look and character.

Who are Northern Inuit Dog dogs best for?

The Northern Inuit dog is characterised by its friendly, energetic, and loyal nature. Because of this, the breed is an excellent pet for kids and families. With good socialisation, Northern Inuit dogs will play with kids and other pets gently and lovingly.

When your Northern Inuit is a puppy, it's always best to keep an eye on them whenever they're around small children. Your dog will always have a kind nature, but their energy can sometimes overpower youngsters.

In addition, it's well known that Northern Inuit dogs are very difficult to train. Their combination of high intelligence and stubbornness means they are reluctant to do anything they don't want to. For this reason, the breed is more suited to established dog owners than those without training experience.

How much grooming does a Northern Inuit Dog need?

The Northern Inuit has a thick, warm coat that sheds heavily at different times throughout the year. During these "blow-out" periods, daily brushing is essential. Even when your dog's coat is shedding the most, regular maintenance is still required to keep it looking its best.

Aside from brushing, Northern Inuits benefit from frequent nail clipping.

Do Northern Inuit Dog bark much?

The Northern Inuit is a moderately vocal dog that is often keen to get its voice heard. A well-trained Northern Inuit will keep its barking to a minimum, but even then, you should expect some level of feedback from your dog at times.

Do Northern Inuit Dog bite?

There's a very low chance that your Northern Inuit will try to bite anyone aggressively. Keeping your dog mentally stimulated with a variety of toys is one of the best ways to avoid persistent biting.

What is the temperament & personality of a Northern Inuit Dog?

The Northern Inuit dog is loyal, caring, and energetic. Even though the breed has a wolf-like appearance, they are not menacing in the slightest. Northern Inuits are always a hit with visitors, thanks to their warm and welcoming attitude.

Northern Inuit dogs are fiercely loyal and have difficulty coping when left alone for extended periods. Regular contact with humans or other dogs is definitely one of the Northern Inuit's biggest living needs and is something that every potential owner needs to consider.

As we've touched on above, the Northern Inuit is an extremely intelligent and quick-witted breed. These dogs require a strong leader, not just to be kept under control but to also feel like they're part of the family.

What is the weight & size of a Northern Inuit Dog?

The Northern Inuit is considered to be a medium to large-sized breed. This size is similar to many of the breeds that the Northern Inuit descends from, such as the German Shepherd dog.

Weight

Male Northern Inuits weigh in at around 36-45 kg, whereas females are a little lighter, between 25-38 kg.

Size

Northern Inuits are between 58-81 cm tall at the shoulder when standing up. The average length of a Northern Inuit is somewhere in the region of 114-152 cm.

How much training does a Northern Inuit Dog need?

Even though Northern Inuits are quick-witted, they can be resistant to training. This is in part thanks to the stubborn streak that runs through their nature. Once more, we recommend these dogs to those who are experienced trainers or people who are willing to put a lot of time into the process.

The Northern Inuit is a very active breed that needs a good amount of exercise every single day. This means at least two long walks or extended runs in the park. A Northern Inuit can quickly get restless if it's not been exercised, so it's best to keep on top of this the best you can.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Northern Inuit Dog?

The Northern Inuit is a generally healthy breed, but there are a few issues that they may be more susceptible to than other dogs. These include the following:

• Glaucoma

• Achondrodysplasia

• Cryptorchidism

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• Hip dysplasia

Even an otherwise healthy Northern Inuit dog can develop these problems, so it's important to keep up with your vet trips.

What is the lifespan of a Northern Inuit Dog?

The Northern Inuit Dog has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

How much should you feed a Northern Inuit Dog?

Northern Inuits are very active and energetic. For this reason, they require a regular schedule of nutritious and protein-packed meals. A Northern Inuit will enjoy wet and dry food, and it's a good idea to keep their diet interesting by mixing them up.

What is the price of a Northern Inuit Dog in Australia?

Even though Northern Inuits are relatively rare in Australia, they don't command a huge price tag. Specifically, you should expect to pay anywhere up to $1200 from a trustworthy breeder.