The Chinook is a rare, American-bred working dog known for its strength, endurance, and gentle temperament. Originally developed as a sled dog, the Chinook is a balanced, muscular, and athletic breed with a slightly rectangular build, a strong topline, and a smooth, efficient gait. These dogs exhibit intelligence, trainability, and a friendly disposition, making them excellent companions and capable working dogs. When looking at Chinooks, picture a dog that moves quickly while hauling heavy loads over a long distance.
The Chinook breed was developed in New Hampshire and became the State Dog in 2009. Chinooks are sled dogs whose unique function is drafting and sled dog racing. Bred to combine the power of freighting breeds with the speed of the lighter racing sled dogs, the Chinook is an athletic, hard-bodied dog showing excellent forward reach and rear extension in a seemingly tireless gait.
The Chinook is an impressive dog with an aquiline muzzle, dark almond eyes, black eye markings, various ear carriages, and a distinctive tawny, close-fitting coat. The saber tail is held in a graceful sickle curve. Males appear unquestionably masculine; females have a distinctly feminine look and are judged equally with the male. A dignified and affectionate family dog, Chinooks are known for their love of children. Chinooks are shown in a natural condition with no trimming.
Ears. The Chinook’s ears are medium-sized, set slightly below the top of the skull with a V-shape, and slightly rounded at the tip. The ear tip should be just long enough to reach the inside corner of the eye. Ears can be drop, prick, or propeller-shaped and maintain a fold when at attention. Matched ears are preferred, and dropped ears are desirable for historical reasons. Mismatched ears are not to be faulted. I like to tell judges and fanciers that we want two ears, preferably one on each side.
Hard-Bodied. The Chinook is a sturdy, well-muscled dog built for power and endurance rather than speed or brute strength. The body should feel firm and substantial, with a strong topline, deep chest, and well-developed musculature, allowing efficient movement and sustained effort.
Saber Tail & Graceful Sickle. The Chinook’s tail is set just below the topline, has a broad base, is moderately long, reaches at least the hock, and is tapering at the end. When the dog is at rest, the tail is carried in a gentle saber-like curve, hanging naturally with a slight arc. In motion or excitement, the tail rises into a graceful sickle, curving upward over the back but never forming a tight curl, being tucked or touching the back. The tail is well-furred but not overly bushy, maintaining the Chinook’s clean, functional appearance.
To learn more about the Chinook, please visit the Chinook Club of America’s website: www.ChinookClubOfAmerica.org
