15 things to know before getting a Northern Inuit Dog

The Northern Inuit Dog is a huge dog breed that resembles a wolf in both size and coloring. In recent years, these massive wolf-like dogs have gained popularity for playing the Dire Wolf in the HBO series Game of Thrones. Despite being called a "wolfdog" and looking like one, they don't have any wolf in their recent family tree. They resemble wolves and are striking to look at because of their muscular frame, broad shoulders, and narrow waist. The ears on their heads are perked up and they have a lengthy muzzle. Most experts agree that the Husky, Malamute, and German Shepherd Dog are all distant relatives of the Northern Inuit. While the exotic dogs' striking appearance is undoubtedly what initially piques people's interest, the breed has much more to offer than just its good looks. We're not simply talking about cute or stunning creatures here. The Northern Inuit Dog is a lot more complex than that. Here are 15 things you need to consider before taking one home!

They are often great family dogs.

Although superficially similar to wolves, Northern Inuit canines have a very distinct personality. They don't get aggressive with people, therefore they make good family dogs. When it comes to protecting their territory, Northern Inuit Dogs are more inclined to make friends with outsiders due to their amiable and loyal nature.

Northern Inuit Dogs are content both outside and indoors, so long as they get regular exercise. Because of their fun and gregarious nature, they benefit greatly from human company. They develop deep attachments to one particular human. Whoever does the bulk of the feeding, walking, and training. Despite this, they remain deeply devoted to their extended family.

Separation anxiety might result from an abnormally close attachment. When left alone, they became rowdy and destructive. Having a second dog in the house can help ease this worry. Because of their complexity, these hybrids are best owned by someone with experience. You shouldn't make this dog your first pet ever.

Northern Inuit don’t like to be alone for a long time.

Because of their susceptibility to developing separation anxiety when left alone for lengthy periods of time, Northern Inuit Dogs are best suited to households with at least one human resident or another dog partner.

They need to be with their people for the majority of the day or have a canine companion because they do not perform well when left alone for lengthy amounts of time and may develop separation anxiety.

The Northern Inuit dog can be a bit stubborn and difficult to train.

These dogs have a streak of stubbornness and may be challenging to teach, so only experienced pet parents should consider getting one. Although teaching them is a greater challenge, they do learn to respect authority after they've been taught, especially that of the person they spend the most time with.

Puppies of Northern Inuit dogs sometimes engage in rough play, and the breed as a whole has a reputation for being stubborn. For the best results, start socializing and teaching these dogs as puppies. With this breed, training might be more difficult, thus early intervention is recommended.

Although Northern Inuit Dogs are smart, they are easily bored. This makes them irritable during dog training sessions, which could lead to undesirable behavior. Treats and praise are the greatest way to maintain this breed's focus. You may keep them engaged in training by breaking it up into manageable chunks and incorporating some lighthearted exercises.

You need to be patient and refrain from ever punishing them. A harsh comment might hurt these dogs' feelings and set them back. Hiring a professional trainer or enrolling in lessons might help instill confidence in those who are hesitant to teach their canines.

This dog is not yet recognized as purebred.

Northern Inuit dogs are hybrids. The American Kennel Club has not recognized them as purebreds. The Northern Inuit Society has been attempting to have them recognized as a separate purebred breed by the American Kennel Club. It's worth noting that the Northern Inuit Dog is a rare exception to the rule that mixed breeds are only ever produced with more of the same mix.

Northern Inuit dogs get along well with children and other dogs.

In general, Northern Inuit dogs get along great with kiddos. Young children should be supervised when around these dogs because of their great energy and size. They are devoted, friendly, and entertaining companions for any family.

To prevent isolation and loneliness, a companion dog is a good idea for your Northern Inuit Dog because they get along very well with other dogs too. Their tremendous prey drive, however, may disqualify them from households with smaller pets such as cats and birds.

The Northern Inuit dog loves to howl.

They howl more than bark, just like the wolf they were intended to resemble. Their shrieking is one of the most annoying habits they have. These canines are prone to howl, and there seems to be no way to stop them. Training could help but not erase it.

This breed is generally healthy.

Generally speaking, Northern Inuit Dogs have good health and a rather long life span for their size. Most are perfectly healthy, but a few may have health problems that can be avoided with preventative care and regular veterinary checks.

The Northern Inuit Society performs routine eye exams and hip and elbow grading on all breeding canines. However, visual problems including glaucoma and dysplasia of the hip and elbow do occur in this breed.

Dwarfism, cryptorchidism, degenerative myelopathy, and epilepsy are all less prevalent disorders that have been observed. Fortunately, though, these situations are rather uncommon. Any health issues that run in the dog's family tree should be detailed by the breeder.

Northern Inuit dogs are pretty low-maintenance.

Nails should be trimmed as needed, which is usually once or twice a month, either by you or a groomer. You should also look in their ears once a week for signs of redness or inflammation.

It's also a great idea to have them brush their teeth at least twice a week. Your veterinarian will gladly demonstrate any of these procedures for you.

Taking care of their double coat is necessary. Regular brushing will encourage shedding and remove dirt and debris from their coat. In the spring and fall, when your pet is most likely to shed its winter coat, brushing more frequently will be beneficial.

Personal interaction with you is also beneficial to their well-being since it fosters emotional bonds that promote contentment and health. When they get enough exercise outside, they do quite a fine lounging around the house with the family.

Their dietary needs change as they age.

Ideally, a Northern Inuit Dog's diet would be designed for a breed of dog that falls between medium and large size but has a lot of energy. The nutritional requirements of the Northern Inuit Dog, like those of all dogs, vary from being a puppy to an adult and then again in old age.

Additionally, these canines may have digestive issues. Since there is so much variability among individual Northern Inuit Dogs in terms of weight, energy, and health, you should consult your veterinarian for advice before making any changes to your dog's diet.

They have waterproof fur.

They have a double coat that is thick, rough, waterproof, and soft to the touch. Their fur possesses an oil that keeps it waterproof, so they don't need baths very often but do require them whenever they get dirty.

They will lose a fair amount of weight, especially while changing seasons. Their fur is as thick as a sheep's. It's best to let the coarse coat grow to around two inches in length. In the fall, these canines lose their coats so that they can grow back thicker for the winter.

The Northern Inuit dogs are best suited to colder temperatures.

The thick, warm coat of a Northern Inuit Dog is ideal for chilly climates. Despite their high heat tolerance, they shouldn't spend any more time than necessary in extreme heat. If it gets too hot, bring them inside where there is air conditioning.

If you have the option, swimming is a great activity to do with your Northern Inuit Dog.

These dogs are shedders.

The Northern Inuit dogs tend to shed a lot. They constantly shed hair all through the year, with the spring and fall being the heaviest.

Consider looking elsewhere if the prospect of a house covered in dog hair makes you look the other way. They're extremely devoted, but heavy shedders. Your clothes, furniture, and hair will all be collecting dog hair.

The Northern Inuit breed is not aggressive.

They're not aggressive at all and are widely regarded as a docile breed. They exude an air of assuredness and seem at ease in any setting.

These canines may seem like wolves, but you can rest assured they are gentle and calm. Despite first impressions to the contrary, they are much more friendly and affable than dangerous.

The Northern Inuit dog is sociable and friendly.

Because of their self-assurance, they tend to open up to strangers quickly. In the wild or at home, they will enthusiastically approach and greet newcomers. Likewise, they don't make great guard dogs because of this issue.

However, they have proven effective as therapy dogs. These dogs are excellent therapeutic companions due to their low energy levels and high intelligence. Training them to be therapy dogs is not something you should attempt without assistance from an expert. They are required to follow certain very stringent regulations.

They don’t need much exercise.

They don't require a lot of activity, but it's good for them to live in an active family. When it comes to exercise, the Northern Inuit Dog only needs two daily walks. Their routine should take about an hour and a half per day.

In summary, the Northern Inuit Dog makes a wonderful pet. When raised properly, they can become exceptionally bright and loyal companions. Sometimes they can even become spoiled and silly. While they get along famously with kids, you shouldn't leave them alone with children. Although they require a bit more effort while training than the usual puppy these dogs are worth it because they are devoted and cheerful. You can't help but fall in love with these pups!