Owning a Greenland Dog can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to understand the unique needs and characteristics of this breed.
Greenland Dogs are born to work, with a strong instinct to pull sleds and hunt. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
In terms of living arrangements, Greenland Dogs are best suited for homes with large yards or access to open spaces where they can roam freely. They need room to move and exercise, which is essential for their physical and mental health.
Greenland Dogs are highly social animals that thrive on interaction with their human family and other dogs. They make excellent companions for active families or individuals who can provide the necessary exercise and attention.
Puppies
Puppies of the Greenland Dog breed are often suited for experienced dog owners, as they require a lot of research and consideration before adoption.
They can be quite affectionate and gentle, which is a lovely trait.
Be prepared for lots of exercise with these high-energy dogs.
Temperament & Intelligence
Greenland Dogs are known to be independent and stubborn with high energy, making them not well-suited for first-time dog owners.
They need experienced and firm owners who can handle their temperament, but they're still great companions because they're affectionate, intelligent, and trainable.
Greenland Dogs are generally quiet and mild-mannered, but they can go off into a howling frenzy on occasion.
They're bred to follow a leader as a working dog, so you need to enforce some form of leadership to stop problem behaviors from developing.
Once they understand you're in charge, they become loyal companions.
They're sociable, making them an excellent choice for active people with backyards in their homes.
Greenland Dogs don't enjoy just lazing around in the house and need to be taken on strenuous activities like hikes to keep them mentally and physically engaged.
They'll be happier outside playing and engaging in physical activity, otherwise, they'll become bored.
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These dogs have been living and working alongside humans for thousands of years, and they need lots of company to prevent frustration.
Prolonged periods of solitude will drive them crazy, so make sure you can provide plenty of attention and interaction.
Expert trainers will really enjoy training this smart dog, but inexperienced owners will struggle to keep up.
Greenland Dogs are well-known for being vocal, with big barking and howling skills that tend to calm down as they mature.
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Suitability for Families
If you have a family with young children, a Greenland dog can make a great addition - but it's essential to socialize them early on to prevent biting behaviors.
Greenland dogs are natural playmates for kids, but it's crucial to teach your children how to engage with them properly.
They thrive in active families with plenty of outdoor activities, making them perfect for families who love hiking or running.
Greenland dogs are not suited for apartment living due to their size and need for space to run around.
They love a busy home with plenty of action, so if you have to leave them alone, make sure they have plenty of toys or consider hiring a sitter to keep them engaged.
If left to their own devices for too long, Greenland dogs can start acting out due to boredom.
Pet Compatibility
Greenland dogs can live peacefully in packs with other dogs, but it's essential to socialize them early to prevent conflicts.
They consider themselves the pack leader and may challenge other canines, so close supervision is necessary.
In a home setting, they can live comfortably with other dog breeds and cats, but introducing them to new animals and people in a controlled environment is crucial.
Greenland dogs don't mix well with cats, so it's best to keep them well apart.
They get on really well with other dogs, making them a great addition to families with multiple pets.
However, they can be too big and boisterous for families with toddlers, and their hyperactivity may overwhelm them.
Elderly people might also find it challenging to handle the energy and needs of a Greenland dog.
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Owning Essentials
Owning a Greenland dog requires a lot of commitment. You need to keep the dog in a comfortable space for it to be happy.
To ensure the pet's survival, you'll need to provide essential items such as food, grooming, exercise, training, and medical checkups.
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Lifestyle
Owning a Greenland dog requires a lot of space, so a flat is too small for this big dog.
They also need regular access to outdoor spaces, which is essential for their happiness.
A minimum of 2 hours exercise every single day is necessary, ideally split into two separate walks - one in the morning, then one in the early evening.
Greenland dogs are okay with short car journeys, but will struggle with longer road trips.
They're far too big to travel on trains or airplanes.
Remember, owning a Greenland dog is a big commitment, so make sure you have the space and time to provide the care they need.
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Purchase Price
Owning a dog can be a significant investment, and it's essential to consider the purchase price of your new furry friend. The initial price of a Greenland Dog puppy will be between £700 to £900.
You'll also need to budget for ongoing expenses, such as food and veterinary care. The monthly budget required to meet the needs of a dog this size is estimated to be around £55 per month.
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Exercise
Greenland Dogs are a high-energy breed that requires extensive exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They need about 2 hours of daily activity, including walking, jogging, or puzzles.
If you bring a Greenland Dog home, be prepared to run around with them, as they are sled dogs and require hours of activity to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They'll easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive if they don't get enough exercise.
Engaging in dog sports and brain games is a great way to keep your Greenland Dog happy and entertained, as they are intelligent breeds. This can include activities like agility training, obedience training, or even just playing fetch.
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Greenland Dogs are built for endurance and can traverse difficult terrain with ease. They're especially valued for their physical strength and endurance, making them a great companion for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're looking for a low-maintenance dog that's happy to lounge around the house, a Greenland Dog is not the best choice. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Training
Training a Greenland Dog requires patience and consistency, as these intelligent breeds can be stubborn and independent. They were bred to work hard and follow a firm handler, so you'll need to establish clear rules and be a firm leader.
This breed comes with a strong alpha instinct, which means they can be overwhelming for inexperienced owners. You'll need to be dominant and set clear boundaries for the dog to follow.
Positive reinforcement and reward-based training are effective methods, using verbal praise and treats to encourage good behavior. Anger and yelling, on the other hand, can slow down the training process.
Training should start early, ideally when the dog is still a puppy, to make things easier. Consistency is key, and involving the rest of the family in the training process can make it easier for everyone.
If training becomes challenging, consider enlisting the help of a professional trainer, but be sure to stay involved so the dog recognizes you as the leader.
Health
The Greenland Dog is a very healthy breed with an average life expectancy of 10 to 14 years.
They're also one of the toughest breeds out there, with a strong, well-built body and plenty of stamina.
However, they don't do well in hot temperatures and can become very uncomfortable.
On the other hand, they're built to withstand extreme cold, thanks to their thick, double coat that's both windproof and waterproof.
One thing to be aware of is that they can be prone to certain health issues, including luxating patella and hip dysplasia.
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Here are some specific health issues to watch out for:
- Luxating patella: a condition where the kneecap slips out of place
- Hip dysplasia: a joint issue that can cause limping or lameness in the rear legs
It's essential to monitor your Greenland Dog's behavior and movements to catch any potential issues early on.
Three Little-Known Facts About
The Greenland Dog is an incredible breed with some fascinating characteristics. They were originally bred to hunt polar bears.
One of their most impressive features is their incredible endurance. They can run for hours at a time in the harshest of conditions.
The Greenland Dog's thick coat is a key part of their survival strategy. It's designed to keep them warm in freezing temperatures.
These dogs are incredibly strong and can pull heavy sleds for miles. They're a true marvel of nature.
AKC Non-Recognition
The AKC Non-Recognition of the Greenland Dog is a notable aspect of this breed's history. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has not officially recognized this breed.
Despite its lack of recognition, the Greenland Dog has gained acceptance from other kennel clubs, such as the FCI, British, and Canadian clubs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Greenland dogs rare?
Yes, the Greenland Dog is a relatively rare breed. This is due to its limited geographical range and traditional use as a working dog in the Arctic region.
Do Greenland dogs bark?
Greenland dogs do not bark, but instead use other vocalizations like howling and screaming to communicate.
Are there Huskies in Greenland?
Yes, certain breeds of Huskies are allowed in Greenland, specifically in East Greenland and the northern part of West Greenland. These include the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Husky, and others.
What is happening to sled dogs in Greenland?
Sled dogs in Greenland are facing a decline in use due to climate change, as the lack of sea ice forces hunters and fishermen to switch to boats
Sources
- A post shared by Ikihallan Greenland Dogs 🐺 (@greenlanddogpack) (instagram.com)
- "GRØNLANDSHUND" (fci.be)
- "Arctic-adapted dogs emerged at the Pleistocene–Holocene transition" (ox.ac.uk)
- Paleoeskimo Dogs of the Eastern Arctic (jstor.org)
- The Greenland Dog Club of Great Britain (greenlanddogclub.co.uk)
- "Antallet af grønlandske slædehunde er halveret: Her er redningsplanen" (videnskab.dk)
- "Hold af slædehunde" (sullissivik.gl)
- National Geographic gallery of the breed in Greenland (nationalgeographic.com)
- Greenland Dog - Breed Standards (ukcdogs.com)
- Greenland Dog - Brit (brit-petfood.com)
- Greenland Dog: Health Issues, Characteristics, Price (wamiz.co.uk)
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