The Northern Inuit Dog breeding began in the late-80's in an attempt to return a domestic dog breed to phenotypically resemble the wolf. 

History

In the late 1980s several rescue dogs of unknown origin or heritage (not purebred dogs) were used by the founder of the breed Eddie Harrison. Early Northern Inuit Dogs were produced by breeding these rescue dogs with the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, and German Shepherd. The German Shepherd was included for training purposes. After years of breeding the resulting dogs were named the Northern Inuit Dog, even though they are not northern in origin. The breed's intent was to create a dog that closely resembles a wolf in appearance but with the gentle character of a domestic dog. The Northern Inuit Dog like many other dogs needs a knowledgeable home, as their ancestry contains more primitive spitz type breeds. They do not enjoy being left alone for long periods which can lead to separation anxiety. Over the years various people have split from the Northern Inuit Society and formed their own groups, these include The Inuit Dog Association, The British Inuit Dog Club and The Utonagan Society. (The Utonagan Society has now also split) Each of these factions believe they are improving the breed by how they are now breeding. This is based on the beliefs of each individual club. Some problems have become apparent such as HC (Hereditary Cataract), HD (Hip Dysplasia) and epilepsy. Problems occur within all breeds of dog and any good breeder should have completed these health tests. It is important to note that Pedigree certificates for these dogs are not recognized by the Kennel Club. The first Inuit Dogs at Crufts were taken there in March 2008 to take part in the first ever canine cross event. The two dogs were a Northern Inuit that placed 6th (Akna Kennnels) and the dog that came first in the ladies event a British Inuit (Bred by Shoshone Kennels and trained by Akna Kennels). Visit the bbc website link for more information. Inuit Dogs can also be registered with the Kennel Club, in the Companion Dog Club. They can compete at Companion (Fun) Dog Shows and agility and obedience competitions. They cannot compete at sled dog events, pulling a rig (wheeled sled), as only purebred Kennel Club registered dogs can be entered onto the register, but they can compete in canine cross.

Appearance and Size

A dog of large powerful build, athletic but not racy. Slightly longer than tall (as 10-9), with leg length slightly longer than overall depth of body. Oval bone is neither too heavy nor too light. Head: Not too broad, skull slightly domed. Muzzle slightly longer than skull. Nose black (winter noses acceptable) Scissor bite.Eyes: Oval, forward facing and set at a slightly oblique angle. Any colour or colour combination acceptableEars: Set fairly high, not too large and carried erect.Body: Topline level. Tail set fairly high and reaching to the hock, carried down when standing, may be lifted when excited.Coat: Dense double coat, slightly harsh in texture, well defined ruff and breeches. Tail bushy.Size: Males: minimum 25 inches. Females: minimum 22 inches. - Overall balance more important than size.Color: Pure White or any shade of Grey and Sable through to pure Black. White faces and dark masks are permitted but any color change should be subtle.Faults: Curly tails, long soft silk coats, patchy/pinto or Black and Tan colours. 

Personality

Friendly, but stubborn and have a high activity level. Will submit to those who it deems stronger and superior to itself. It is an independent thinker and will sometimes disregard its master's directions if it does not see sense behind it. They are good with children, but are boisterous when young so should not be left alone with them, as with all large powerful breeds. They are very loyal and form a close bond with their owner and family. If it feels that they are in danger it will show protectiveness, which makes them reasonable guard dogs. If left alone for long periods of time they will be destructive, so it is best they are left with another dog or in a place where there are not any valuables to destroy. They need to be socialized early on; and training should be firm but kind. 

Wikipedia and GNU

The content of this entry is from the Wikipedia article "Northern Inuit Dog" licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.