The Greenland Dog Community

The Greenland Dog, known in Danish as the Gronlandshund and in Greenlandic as the Kalaallit qimmiat, is one of the oldest and most genetically primitive dog breeds in existence, an ancient Arctic working breed that has been used by the indigenous peoples of Greenland for at least four thousand years for the vital task of pulling sledges across frozen terrain in conditions of extreme cold and physical challenge. Closely related to the Canadian Eskimo Dog and sharing a common ancestry with other Arctic spitz breeds, the Greenland Dog remains a functional working sledge dog in Greenland to this day and is one of the few breeds whose essential character and working form has remained relatively unchanged over millennia. Registered by the Kennel Club in the Working Group, it is an exceptionally rare breed in the United Kingdom. The Greenland Dog is a large, powerfully built spitz with the characteristic features of the Arctic working breeds: a thick, dense double coat providing protection against extreme cold, a broad wedge-shaped head, erect triangular ears, a moderately long muzzle and the typical spitz tail that curls over the back. The coat comes in a wide range of colours. Adults typically stand 55 to 68 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh 27 to 47 kilograms. The overall impression is of a powerful, weather-resistant working dog built for endurance rather than speed alone. The character is that of a primitive, independent working dog shaped by thousands of years of Arctic life rather than by selective breeding for domestic companionship. The Greenland Dog is highly intelligent but autonomous - it was bred to make working decisions independent of human direction, and this independence is fundamental to its character. It is not naturally inclined toward the close responsiveness and desire to please that characterises the more domesticated gundog or herding breeds. It can be deeply loyal and affectionate with its own people but on its own terms. Vocality is a defining characteristic. The Greenland Dog communicates extensively through howling - a functional communication behaviour in a sledge dog working in teams - and this is not trainable out of the breed. Prospective owners in urban or noise-sensitive environments need to understand this before acquiring the breed. Predatory drive is high and deeply ingrained. The Greenland Dog is not safe in a household with small animals and its recall in open areas around wildlife or small animals cannot be relied upon. Exercise needs are exceptional. The Greenland Dog was bred for sustained hard work in extreme conditions and requires very substantial daily exercise with a purpose. Canicross, bikejoring, sledding or other pulling sports provide the most appropriate outlets. Purchase prices where available in the UK range from £800 to £2,000. Monthly running costs average £120 to £200. Northern breed clubs and sledding communities are the primary resources for breed information and contact.