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Originating from the Canadian Arctic, the Canadian Eskimo Dog is called "Qimmiq" by the Inuit and is the oldest indigenous breed still in existence in North America. The breed was popular with Arctic explorers and had a reputation as the sled dog that could pull the heaviest loads, over the greatest distances, on the least amount of food. In the 1950’s it was estimated that 20,000 Canadian Eskimo Dogs lived in Canada’s North. However, when snowmobiles gained favour, the number of Eskimo Dogs declined almost to the point of extinction. In the 1970s, a project, funded by the CKC, the Canada Council and private individuals saved the breed. Still, today it is estimated that there are less than 300 purebred CKC registered Canadian Eskimo Dogs in the world making the breed one of the rarest.
The Canadian Eskimo Dog is a gentle and affectionate companion. The breed does not adapt well to temperate climates. He is primarily a working dog, born to pull and, therefore, needs plenty of outdoor exercise preferably in sub-freezing temperatures.
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Health Issues:
If you are considering the adoption of a Canadian Eskimo Dog puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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Grooming:
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes Grooming information, tips and techniques, as well as listings of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Canadian Eskimo Dog, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- History of the Canadian Eskimo Dog
- Canadian Eskimo Dog Foundation (CEDF) — Established to facilitate a better understanding of the Canadian Eskimo Dog, and to promote what is one of the last remaining strongholds for this extraordinary breed.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — See this section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for information on various dog sports and activities as well as listings to non-breed specific clubs from across Canada
- Working Dogs — If you would like to learn more about the many jobs that dogs are involved in, this section provides information on working dogs as well as listings to organizations across Canada.
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