Dogs

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Scandinavia

MOST SUITED AS Sledge dog.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is a minimum of 60cm (23 1'2in) for dogs and 55cm (21in) for bitches. There is no maximum height.

COAT
The Greenland Dog has a double-layered coat: the under-layer is soft and thick, the outer-layer protects well against the weather. All colours are accepted with the exception of albino.

CARE REQUIRED
This breed does not need much attention to its coat. During moulting, when the under-layer of the coat is shed, the best way to remove loose hairs is to use a comb with a double row of metal teeth.

CHARACTER
This breed is independent, equable, dominant, tough on itself, and has a mind of its own. The Greenland Dog rarely barks but howls quite a lot. This is definitely not a family pet for someone living a city. They have an amazing amount of energy with tremendous stamina.

TRAINING
Training this dog is not particularly easy due to its rather independent nature, with a mind of its own. This is a sledge dog, not a family pet, which can cover enormous distances and will do so given half a chance, staying away for days at a time - so that a good fence is essential. Pulling a sledge is when it is most in its element so this breed is ideal for someone wanting a dog for this very purpose.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
This breed does not like to be left on its own. If you decide to buy one, you should get two dogs. They are perfectly happy in an outdoor kennel. They do not usually get on well with either cats or other household animals. Friends and stran­gers alike will be exuberantly greeted, probably with howling. Consequently they are not suitable as watch­dogs in spite of their size.

EXERCISE
It must already be obvious that the Greenland Dog needs a great deal of exercise. The best form for them is pulling a sledge or wheeled cart. If you know that you will be unable to provide this dog with such exercise, it is better to take the choice for another breed. They are too strong to be exercised running alongside a cycle. Avoid much activity with them in warmer weather and do not let the dog work above a temperature of 15�C (59�F). If you live in a hot climate - choose a different breed.