The Greenland Dog is a powerful and independent sled dog breed originating from Greenland. They are affectionate with their families but require experienced owners due to their strong pack drive and high exercise needs.
Origin and Purpose
Developed by the Inuit people of Greenland, the Greenland Dog is a robust sled dog bred for hauling heavy loads over long distances in harsh Arctic conditions. They are known for their strength, endurance, and ability to work in packs.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
20-24 inches (51-61 cm)
55-66 lbs (25-30 kg)
Male
23-27 inches (58-68 cm)
66-75 lbs (30-34 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Any color, solid or particolored
Type
Double coat, with a dense undercoat and a straight, coarse outer coat
Length
Medium
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Heavy
Grooming
Regular, especially during shedding seasons
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Strong and wedge-shaped
Skull
Wide with a strong stop
Ears
Small, triangular, and erect
Eyes
Dark, preferably dark brown, and slightly slanted
Nose
Black or liver colored, depending on coat color
Muzzle
Strong and tapers towards the nose
Teeth
Strong with a scissor bite
Neck
Muscular and strong
Forequarters
Strong, well-muscled with straight legs
Fore Legs
Strong and straight
Hindquarters
Powerful and well-muscled
Hind Legs
Strong and parallel
Feet
Large, oval-shaped and strong with thick pads
Tail
Set high, thick, and carried curled over the back or hanging down
Gait
Powerful and tireless
Temperament
Independent, strong-willed, and intelligent, they are affectionate with their families but have a strong pack mentality and can be dominant. They are not natural watchdogs but very loyal to their owners.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Yes, very affectionate with their family
Good with Children
Generally good, but supervision is needed due to their size and strength
Good with Dogs
Can be good with dogs if raised together or properly socialized, but may exhibit dominance issues
Good with Cats
Not recommended, strong prey drive and not typically good with cats
Openness to Strangers
Reserved
Playfulness Level
Moderately Playful
Protective Nature
Loyal and protective towards family, but not a natural watchdog
Adaptability Level
Low, best suited for active owners in colder climates with plenty of space
Working Roles
Primarily a sled dog, historically used for hunting and transport
Exercise Needs
High, requiring extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation
Health
Generally healthy breed, prone to hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Additional Notes
Requires experienced owners with strong leadership. They are not suitable for apartment living and need to live with pack or family. They have a natural instinct to roam.
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