Greenland Dog
Complete Breed Guide
"Icicles make great toys. Don’t you think?"
Quick Facts About Greenland Dogs
Working
66–70 lbs
2–25"
No
Overview
Greenland Dogs are originally from Siberia. The frozen tundra in the middle of nowhere? Yes, that Siberia. So you know these dogs have to be a tough, hardy, determined breed. In fact, Greenland Dogs have been helping native peoples hunt and haul seal and polar bear for thousands of years. They love having a job to do for their owners but aren’t particularly affectionate.
Siberia is famously known to be one of the most desolate places in the world and also one of the coldest; it's also where Greenland Dogs are from. Needless to say, they are tough cookies. They have been best friends of the Eskimo and native peoples for more than 12,000 years - helping them hunt and haul seal and polar bear. These hardworking, hardy dogs are rarely seen outside of the Arctic and rarely kept as family pets.
Temperament and Behavior
Greenland Dogs usually work together in packs and develop close relationships with one another. Human companions, on the other hand, they do not bond with quite as much. Greenland Dogs tend to keep to themselves but are generally receptive to people. Although they are brave, they do not have protective instincts and aren’t guard dogs. Greenland Dogs think they know best and will take charge if no one else does. It’s always best to begin training with them early. If you do, they will be more than willing to work extra hard for you.
Coat & Grooming
With their amazingly thick double coats, Greenland Dogs can live outdoors in unbelievably cold conditions. It’s recommended to brush them a couple times a week to ensure their fluffy fur doesn’t become matted.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Being from a region where water quickly become frozen Frisbees, Greenland Dogs aren’t comfortable in warm weather. Independent and high-energy, they can do well as outdoor dogs. If you choose to bring them inside, they will need daily access to a large, large… large backyard. Consider adding a fence, too, as they tend to roam. Greenland Dogs are strong and strong-willed and might prove challenging as a first dog. They also prefer not to be the only dog.
Exercise & Activity
Greenland Dogs are the opposite of lazy and can work hard for more than few hours at a time. They are natural sled dogs and will race you to the finish with giant grins on their faces. They also enjoy a good hike and will happily tow any supplies. Overall, an exercised Greenland Dog is a happy Greenland Dog.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Greenland Dog FAQs
Common questions about the Greenland Dog breed, answered by our editorial team.
Find Greenland Dog Puppies