Canadian Eskimo Dog Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Canadian Eskimo Dog, also called the Qimmiq, is a powerful Arctic sled dog developed by the Inuit. It is one of the oldest and rarest breeds in North America, adapted to pull heavy loads and survive in extreme cold.

Origins and appearance

Dogs of this type have lived with Arctic peoples for hundreds or perhaps thousands of years and were vital for hunting, hauling and travel. Canadian Eskimo Dogs are large and muscular, with a broad head, small erect ears, a thick double coat in many colors and a bushy tail curled over the back. Males are noticeably larger than females.

Temperament

They are strong-willed, independent and pack-oriented. They can be friendly with their people but are not always easy with strangers or other dogs. They have a strong prey drive. They need firm, experienced leadership. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need extensive exercise, with daily running, pulling and long outings. They are built for endurance. They need very secure containment and are poorly suited to small yards or apartments.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive, consistent methods and early socialization. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Pulling sports and sledding are natural outlets. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing several times a week, more in shedding seasons. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

The breed is generally considered hardy, but topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Heat intolerance. See heatstroke in dogs
• Hereditary conditions, with a small gene pool
• Dental care. See dental disease in dogs

Living with a Canadian Eskimo Dog

They suit experienced, active owners in cold climates with space and a working purpose. They are poorly suited to apartments, hot climates, first-time owners or homes with small pets.

A typical day

A working Qimmiq may travel long distances with a sled team. A pet needs several hours of structured activity, plus company and secure containment.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are strong and mouthy. Begin socialization, handling and training early. Provide chew toys. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food in volume, secure fencing and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They thrive in cold weather but overheat in warm conditions. Provide shade, water and a cool place. Travel is best done with a sturdy crate.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, poor socialization, keeping the dog in a hot climate and trusting it off lead.

Choosing a puppy or adult

The breed is very rare, with small numbers, and breeders prioritize working homes. Expect to talk with a breeder at length and to wait.

A breed with cultural importance

The Qimmiq is tied to Inuit hunting and travel. In the twentieth century snowmobiles and other changes reduced the number of working dogs sharply, and conservation efforts have been needed to protect the breed. In 2000 the Government of Nunavut formally recognized the dog as a cultural symbol, according to commonly cited accounts.

Pack behavior

Qimmiit were traditionally kept in teams with a clear hierarchy. Pet owners must understand that fights can happen, so introductions and supervision are important, and the breed is rarely a good fit for multi-dog homes with other breeds.

Daily care checklist

• Hours of structured activity, such as pulling or long hikes.
• Brushing, more in shedding seasons.
• A secure enclosure and fence checks.
• Fresh water, shade and company.
• Training with calm, firm leadership.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Canadian Eskimo Dog suits very experienced owners in cold climates who want to work with a rare sled dog. It is unsuitable for most pet homes. For a more adaptable sled breed, see the Siberian Husky.

The takeaway

Canadian Eskimo Dogs are rare, powerful Arctic workers, and they need cold weather, exercise and experienced handling.