Greenland dogs belong to a group of dogs known as spitz dogs. A spitz is a type of dog with pointy ears, a pointy muzzle, a bushy tail that curls up over the body and a thick, dense coat. Some other spitz dogs include the Pomeranian, the shiba inu, the Eskimo and the Siberian husky. Greenland dogs originated in the Arctic region more than 12,000 years ago. Throughout the centuries, the Greenland dog has been utilized as a draught dog for pulling sleds, and they were also used for hunting seals and polar bears. In the mid-1700s, the first Greenland dogs arrived in Britain. When the United Kennel Club was founded in 1880, the Greenland dog became one of the first recognized breeds.
A Greenland dog's appearance is similar to that of other sled dogs. The dog's head is broad, the triangular-shaped ears stand erect, and its bushy tail curls up over its back. The Greenland dog stands at a height of 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighs in at 66 to 70 pounds. The dog is protected from sub-zero temperatures by its thick double coat. The undercoat is dense and wooly, and the topcoat is coarse, thick and short to medium in length. The hair on the legs is feathered. The coat may be any color. The powerful body is built for endurance and strength for hunting and pulling sleds in polar climates. The Greenland Dog is a medium-sized, athletic breed that is muscular and very powerful thanks to their deep chest, and strong legs and bones. Its head is wedge-shaped, with a long muzzle and erect, triangular ears. Their thick double coats consist of a dense, fluffy undercoat and a coarse, profuse outer coat. Taking care of the coat requires some attention, as these dogs need to be brushed regularly.
Personality
Greenland dogs are active, and they require plenty of regular physical and mental exercise. They are boisterous and can be overzealous when they are in play mode. They are friendly dogs toward most people, and they do not make effective guard dogs. They are independent and stubborn, which can make training a challenge. The breed tends to wander and should be kept within the confines of a fenced yard when outdoors. Greenland dogs are still utilized primarily as working dogs, and they are also participants in dog sled racing. The Greenland Dog is loyal, active and friendly. They were bred as pack animals and therefore look to their owners to be their pack leaders. They are affectionate and loving. They need plenty of exercise and may not be suited for apartment living. They also don't tolerate heat. They are happiest outdoors. Greenland Dogs are intelligent, but sometimes independent and stubborn. They are friendly towards other dogs, but reserved with strangers.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12-13 years |
| Nicknames: | Greenland husky, Gronlandshunden |
Greenland Dog Build Information
A Greenland dog's appearance is similar to that of other sled dogs. The dog's head is broad, the triangular-shaped ears stand erect, and its bushy tail curls up over its back. The Greenland dog stands at a height of 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighs in at 66 to 70 pounds. The dog is protected from sub-zero temperatures by its thick double coat. The undercoat is dense and wooly, and the topcoat is coarse, thick and short to medium in length. The hair on the legs is feathered. The coat may be any color. The powerful body is built for endurance and strength for hunting and pulling sleds in polar climates. The Greenland Dog is a medium-sized, athletic breed that is muscular and very powerful thanks to their deep chest, and strong legs and bones. Its head is wedge-shaped, with a long muzzle and erect, triangular ears. Their thick double coats consist of a dense, fluffy undercoat and a coarse, profuse outer coat. Taking care of the coat requires some attention, as these dogs need to be brushed regularly.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Greenland dogs are active, and they require plenty of regular physical and mental exercise. They are boisterous and can be overzealous when they are in play mode. They are friendly dogs toward most people, and they do not make effective guard dogs. They are independent and stubborn, which can make training a challenge. The breed tends to wander and should be kept within the confines of a fenced yard when outdoors. Greenland dogs are still utilized primarily as working dogs, and they are also participants in dog sled racing. The Greenland Dog is loyal, active and friendly. They were bred as pack animals and therefore look to their owners to be their pack leaders. They are affectionate and loving. They need plenty of exercise and may not be suited for apartment living. They also don't tolerate heat. They are happiest outdoors. Greenland Dogs are intelligent, but sometimes independent and stubborn. They are friendly towards other dogs, but reserved with strangers.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The coat of a Greenland dog should be brushed out once or twice each week to remove dead hairs and minimize shed accumulation in the home. Brushing the teeth every other day reduces plaque, minimizes tartar buildup, prevents periodontal disease and helps to preserve overall health.
| Shedding: | Heavy |
| Grooming: | Low Mainenance |
Greenland Dog Common Health Conditions
Greenland dogs live average lifespans of 13 years. Since the breed is rare and has not been subjected to excessive breeding, it has remained relatively hardy with no known health problems.
Greenland Dog Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The Greenland dog is a rare breed. If you are lucky enough to acquire one of these friendly dogs, be ready to provide extensive opportunities for physical activity. The Greenland dog originated in the Arctic region. The Greenland dog is also known as a Greenland husky and a Gronlandshunden. The rare Greenland dog is a loyal and independent working dog. The Greenland dog stands 22 to 25 inches tall and weighs 66 to 70 pounds. The Greenland dog has a high energy level. Greenland dogs require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for a Greenland dog is 13 years.
| Training: | Hard |