Canadian Eskimo Dog (Quimmiq)

Origin & History

The Canadian Eskimo Dog (Canadian Inuit Dog / Qimmiq) is one of North America's oldest and rarest indigenous purebred dogs, developed by the Inuit people over 4,000 years ago. These powerful Arctic dogs were essential for survival in the harsh northern climate, used for pulling heavy sleds, hunting polar bears and seals, and as watchdogs for Inuit camps.

The Canadian Eskimo Dog and Greenland Dog descended from dogs associated with the Thule people, who relied on them for transportation from Siberia.

Renowned for their incredible endurance and strength, teams of Canadian Eskimo Dogs could haul loads up to 80 kg (175 lb) per dog over long distances in extreme conditions. Their numbers dramatically declined in the 20th century with the introduction of snowmobiles, bringing them to near extinction by the 1970s.

Formerly registered with American Kennel Club (AKC) but was removed from its registry in 1959 due to critically low population numbers.

Today, dedicated breeding programs work to preserve this national treasure of Canada, which remains an impressive working dog and loyal companion for experienced owners.

Stats:

• Height:  20-28 inches
• Weight:  40-90 lbs
• Coat:  Thick double coat with stiff guard hairs and dense undercoat
• Colors:  All colors and markings including white, black, gray, liver, red, sable
• Lifespan:  10-15 years

Note: While the CKC refers to this breed as 'Canadian Eskimo Dog', the government of Nunavut refers to it as the 'Canadian Inuit Dog', and made it the Canadian territory's official animal. In the Inuktituk language, it is reffered to as 'Quimmiq'