Greenland Dog
The Greenland Dog originates from the coastal Arctic regions of Northern Siberia, Alaska and Greenland and is believed to be one of the most ancient breeds. It is thought that the breed arrived in Greenland about 4 - 5,000 years ago when they arrived with the Sarqaq people; they have only been known as the Greenland Dog since 1990 in the UK, having previously been known by a variety of names. The first Greenland Dogs were brought to the UK around 1750 and they were first exhibited at Darlington in 1875; they were amongst the first breed to be recognised by the Kennel Club at its foundation in 1880.
During the last century numbers have fallen dramatically as their function as sled dogs has considerably reduced. However, Arctic explorers have frequently favoured him over the other Spitz breeds and it is certain that Roald Amundsen used them in the race to the South Pole in 1910 - 12. The Greenland shares with other Spitz breeds a stubborn and independent nature with a strong desire for dominance; he must be firmly and consistently managed from a puppy to prevent him asserting himself; as a strong and substantial dog he has to perfectly clear about the boundaries. As an adult he will measure up to 70cm nd weigh 105lbs. He is not really a dog for the novice as he will continue to challenge through a very long adolescence and he will require plenty of stimulus to keep his alert mind occupied. As a pack animal he will respect his place in the family hierarchy once it is established; when he tries to push the boundaries he will back down when rebuked. He has a typically dense Spitz coat consisting of a thick double coat; the undercoat is up to 5cm long, virtually impenetrable with a straight, coarse outer coat, longest on the neck, withers and breeches and underside of tail. On the head and legs it is quite short. All colours and combinations are permissible. Click here to read the Greenland Dog Breed Standard.
Greenland Dog Breed Clubs
Greenland Dog Rescue and Rehoming
Contact a Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own pet, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.
Greenland Dog Breeders
If you are looking for a puppy contact the Breed Clubs and the Breeders listed and visit the puppyfinder website where there is a great deal of information on hereditary conditions. If you are a Breeder and wish to advertise your puppies puppyfinder is an excellent showcase. |
