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About the Northern Inuit Dog

 

The Inuit Dog has existed for thousands of years.  The Inuit people needed a dog to suit their lifestyle, and as a working companion.  Legend has it, that for this they staked out several bitches to be bred with wolves.​

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By selective breeding and culling of the offspring, they eventually got what they wanted - a dog that could work long hours in cold temperatures, would live as a family pet, and be obedient and loyal.

 

In the early 1980's, a few Inuit type dogs were imported to Britain, and by following the Inuit peoples' example, and by using Northern Breeds of dogs, we have arrived at the Northern Inuit Dog we have today.  They withhold the original characteristics and traits of the original Inuit dogs, ie, a willingness to work and to please.

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Although originally having to battle against the elements for survival, they have fitted in well with our modern day lifestyle, as a loyal pet, capable of competing successfully in obedience and agility, as well as their original job of pulling sledges.

Where the Northern Inuit has not proved a success however, is as a guard dog, due to their friendly manner and a willingness to greet any visitor as a long lost friend.

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The future of the Northern Inuit looks bright.  With their incredible sense of smell and eagerness to please, they could provide future services, such as search and rescue, guide dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for the deaf.  Some are already registered PAT dogs.  First and foremost, they are the pride and joy to all who have the priviledge to own one.  They are most certainly a breed apart.

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The Northern Inuit dog is non aggressive.  They are the most versatile of dogs, but they are not for the novice dog owner, as they can be very stubborn and quick witted.  The owner of an NI, must show themselves to the Alpha Leader of the Pack, or be prepared to be the Underdog!  A firm hand is most definately needed, however, the pluses far outweigh the cons of owning and NI.  They are a joy to live with and attract attention wherever they go.

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NIs love to dig, so nice gardens don't usually exist alongside them. They will eat any variety of garden plant.  Most owners have gardens consisting of slabs or concrete.

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Some NIs if introduced to livestock at an early age, will grow up not wanting to chase sheep etc, but 2 or more NIs can become a pack, and pack instinct takes over.  Their hunter drive is high, so caution should be taken at all times, when out near sheep, horses or cattle.

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Common sense dictates that children and dogs should never be left unsupervised.  The NI can be quite boisterous at play, and although they wouldn't bite intentionally, they do sometimes like to "mouth" things like arms or legs.  They could easily knock over a child.

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Another dog as a companion is a great idea as NI's are very sociable and love the company of other dogs and people.

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The NI Breed is very addictive. ​

 

 

 

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We are affiliated with the Northern Inuit Society  

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