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Working · Canada

Canadian Eskimo Dog

A walker's guide to the Canadian Eskimo Dog: how much exercise they need, what to expect on and off the lead, and what to ask the owner before the first walk.

Large, 20 to 40 kgHigh driveSled dogVery high staminaThick coatStrong puller
Exercise a day2 hours plus
Energy5 of 5
Walk styleHard-pulling, relentless
With other dogsPack-minded, can be rough

Overview

The Canadian Eskimo Dog, or Qimmiq, is an ancient Arctic breed kept by the Inuit for hauling sledges, hunting seal and polar bear and guarding camps. It is a powerful, thick-coated spitz, heavier than a Siberian Husky, with a broad head, small ears and a tail carried over the back. The Kennel Club lists it in the Working group and it is rare in Britain.

This is a primitive working dog with strong pack instincts. It is loyal to its people, tough, independent and inclined to settle disputes with other dogs physically. It also has prey drive and almost limitless stamina. Owners in Britain are usually involved in sled-dog sport.

Exercise and walking needs

Two hours a day is a baseline, and more is better. The breed was bred to pull loads for hours in extreme cold, and ordinary walks leave it barely exercised.

Canicross, bikejor or scooter work are the natural outlets. If the owner does these, ask about joining in rather than relying on lead walking.

Daily minimum120 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeNot recommended

On the walk

  • Pulling: Constant and strong. The breed was made for it. A padded harness and a waist belt, or a headcollar the owner has trained, and never a retractable lead.
  • Recall: Treat as absent. Prey drive and independence mean the dog will not come back from a chase. On lead in public, always.
  • Other dogs: Pack hierarchy matters to them and they can be rough with unfamiliar dogs. Avoid group walks and busy parks.
  • Heat: A dog built for the Arctic suffers in a British summer. Walk early and late, keep it short and carry water.

Tips for professional walkers

  1. Walk at a brisk pace; the breed does not understand a slow stroll.
  2. Keep away from livestock and small animals; the hunting drive is strong.
  3. Check the thick coat for debris and the pads for cuts after rough ground.
  4. Expect howling and talking rather than barking, and plan for the noise.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.

What to ask the owner

  • Does the dog pull in harness for sport, and could you join the owner's routine?
  • How does it behave with other dogs, and is there any dog it must not meet?
  • At what temperature does the owner want walks shortened or cancelled?
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