Chinook
Alert Calm Dignified Friendly Great with kids High energy dog Intelligent Loves hot weather Sheds a lot Sled pulling Working

Chinook

Height 22 - 26 in (56 - 66 cm)
Weight 50 - 90 lbs (23 - 41 kg)
Lifespan 12 - 15 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Chinook Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Do you live in a hot climate?

Are you okay with a dog that sheds heavily?

Can you deal with a dog that drools frequently?

Breed Characteristics

Chinooks are described as extremely athletic working dogs that require at least an hour of exercise per day, with some sources suggesting up to two hours. The consensus leans towards a high exercise requirement, indicating a rating of 4.

How much exercise does Chinook need?

Low High
Chinooks require moderate grooming, with weekly brushing for most of the year and more frequent brushing during shedding seasons. Additionally, their nails need weekly trimming and baths are only needed every few months.

How much grooming does Chinook need?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that Chinooks are intelligent, eager to please, quick to learn, and generally easy to train using positive reinforcement techniques. They are described as trainable and reliable off-leash, with some sources mentioning their intelligence and quick learning abilities.

Is Chinook easy to train?

Low High
Based on the consensus from multiple sources highlighting the Chinook's high level of intelligence, ease of training, quick learning ability, and responsiveness to training. While some sources mention potential stubbornness, overall, the breed is described as intelligent, cooperative, and able to perform well in various working roles.

How intelligent is Chinook?

Low High
Chinooks are not known for excessive barking, but they may vocalize to alert their family or communicate. Some sources mention occasional barking when bored or full of energy, but overall consensus is that they are not excessive barkers.

Does Chinook bark a lot?

Low High
Chinooks are described as intelligent, trainable, eager to please, and loyal, but they may exhibit a stubborn streak due to their working dog roots. While they are independent, they also have a strong desire to work cooperatively and please their owners.

Is Chinook stubborn or independent?

Low High
The majority of sources emphasize that Chinooks need at least two hours of exercise daily to stay healthy physically and mentally. This indicates a high level of playtime requirement, hence the rating of 4.

How much playtime does a Chinook need daily?

Low High
Chinooks are active dogs that require daily exercise, but they can adapt to apartment life with enough exercise. While they thrive on outdoor activities and need at least an hour of physical activity per day, they can also be content with regular walks and playtime totaling about an hour daily.

Can Chinook stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that Chinook dogs are territorial and protective, with one source specifically mentioning that they are protective about their property.

Is Chinook protective or territorial?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that Chinooks are highly affectionate with family members, forming strong bonds and displaying deep loyalty. They are known to be gentle, loving, and excellent companions for families, especially with children.

Is Chinook affectionate with family?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Chinook prone to allergies?

The Chinook breed is generally healthy but is prone to specific health issues, including hip dysplasia, cryptorchidism, gastrointestinal disorders, and allergies. Allergies in Chinooks can manifest as both environmental and food allergies, with a higher occurrence of food intolerance/allergies leading to gastrointestinal problems. Some Chinooks may have skin allergies that pose the risk of secondary infections. While Chinooks are not hypoallergenic due to their shedding double coat, they may be less susceptible to allergies and atopy with proper care and nutrition. Overall, Chinooks are not recommended for individuals with allergies due to their shedding and potential for triggering allergic reactions.


Is Chinook a hypoallergenic breed?

Chinooks are not hypoallergenic dogs, as they have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, potentially triggering allergies in sensitive individuals. While there is no breed that is completely hypoallergenic, Chinooks are not recommended for people with allergies due to their shedding and dander. The breed is known to have both environmental and food allergies, with a higher occurrence of food intolerance that can lead to gastrointestinal issues. It is important to note that there are no dog breeds that are guaranteed to not cause allergic reactions, but some breeds are less allergenic for individuals with dog allergies.


What are common health issues in Chinook?

The Chinook breed is generally healthy but can be prone to certain health issues. Common conditions include hip dysplasia, cryptorchidism (retained testicles), gastrointestinal disorders, allergies, cataracts, and musculoskeletal problems. Other reported health concerns are drug reactions (Multi-Drug Resistance 1), paroxysmal dystonia, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, cardiac issues, anasarca, and a condition known as "Chinook seizures." Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor and address these potential health issues in Chinooks.


How often should a Chinook visit the vet?

Chinooks are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 12-15 years, but they are susceptible to certain medical conditions. For adult Chinooks aged 1-7 years, annual wellness exams are recommended by veterinarians to monitor their health and ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations. Regular vet visits are crucial for early detection of any potential health issues, and it is advised to contact the vet promptly if the dog shows concerning symptoms like frequent vomiting or vomiting blood. Puppies should be seen by a vet once a month from birth to four months of age to maintain their vaccination schedule and discuss their development. Overall, the frequency of vet visits for Chinooks, like other dogs, depends on factors such as age, breed, lifestyle, and overall health.


What is the average vet bill for a Chinook?

The average annual vet bill for a Chinook is estimated to be around $500 to $700 for routine veterinary care, including vaccinations, regular check-ups, and preventive medications. Costs can increase significantly if the Chinook encounters health issues common to large breeds. The national average cost for a routine vet visit ranges from $25 to $186, with a typical visit costing around $50. Spaying or neutering procedures typically range from $200 to $500. Annual exams with blood work can cost around $700, with a standard visit to the vet priced at $95 plus any additional costs involved. Core vaccines are administered in a series of three at 6, 12, and 16 weeks old, with an average cost of $75 to $100 per visit. Overall, Chinook owners should budget for routine veterinary care costs and be prepared for potential variations based on individual health needs and geographic location.


Join Our Pet-Loving Community

Get info from fellow pet owners, and help them by sharing your experiences, and get advice from experts and enthusiasts .

Share your pet's photos and stories
Get personalized breed recommendations
Ask questions and get answers from experts
Connect with local pet owners
Save your favorite breeds and articles

Join Now - It's Free!