Northern Stars: Spitz-Type Breeds and the Story of Human-Canine Cooperation

Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast

In this episode, we explore the breeds that have made the difference between life and death in some of the planet’s harshest conditions, the spitz-type dog breeds of the north.

Northern breeds provide one of this planet’s great survival stories. For tens of thousands of years, these dog breeds outlasted the worst cold, snow, and ice our planet can impose. And, with their human partners, they’ve survived disease and deterioration. It was tangible needs that brought humans and spitz dogs together, but it’s the intangibles that have bound us since. Join us as we get all mushy (see what we did there?) and tell the inspiring tale of an indispensable partnership.

Bonafide Bits:

• Many spitz-type dog breeds use their curved tail to retain a blanket of heat around their face while they sleep.
• It is theorized that humans and dogs migrated to North America together.
• A Yakutian Laika was the first living creature to travel in space.
• In 1909, Robert Peary reached the North Pole with the aid of 40 dogs pulling sleds.
• In 1925, during the Serum Run, Togo, a Siberian Husky, led his team 261 miles carrying a diphtheria antitoxin.

Featured Breeds:

Siberian Husky

• The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, and convey a keen but amiable, and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. Tipping the scales at no more than 60 pounds, they are noticeably smaller and lighter than their burly cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky Breed Biography.

Alaskan Malamute

• A powerful, hard-working spitz type, the Alaskan Malamute is known for being affectionate, loyal, and playful. One of the oldest sled dog breeds, the Mal has strength and stamina, which allows them to slowly haul heavy loads over long distances. Loving family dogs, Mals are also independent and energetic. Discover more about Alaskan Malamutes at AKC’s Alaskan Malamute Breed Biography.

Samoyed

• The Samoyed is a substantial but graceful dog standing anywhere from 19 to a bit over 23 inches at the shoulder. Powerful, tireless, with a thick all-white coat impervious to cold—Sammies are perfectly beautiful but highly functional. Even their most delightful feature, a perpetual smile, has a practical function: The upturned corners of the mouth keep Sammies from drooling, preventing icicles from forming on the face. Discover more about Samoyeds at AKC’s Samoyed Breed Biography.

Chinook

• Chinooks were conceived as dual-purpose haulers, with the power of freighting dogs and the speed of sled racers. They are the picture of stouthearted dignity, with a kindly twinkle in their dark, almond eyes. Chinooks are calm, people-oriented dogs with a special feel for children. They are trainable workers who aim to please. Sledding, carting, obedience, agility, search-and-rescue work, and herding are a few pursuits they've mastered. Chinooks are not particularly busy dogs, but they need consistent exercise to stay in proper hard condition. Discover more about Chinooks at AKC’s Chinook Breed Biography.

Chow Chow

• The Chow Chow is instantly recognizable because of their lion’s mane ruff, blue-black tongue, and powerful but compact physique. The breed is known for being attentive to cleanliness, calm, and loyal, but often also aloof, stubborn, and serious. With that thick coat, the Chow Chow does not tolerate high heat well. Discover more about Chow Chows at AKC’s Chow Chow Breed Biography.

Pomeranian

• The fluffy Pomeranian is one of the world’s most popular toy breeds—and for good reason! These dogs may weigh less than seven pounds, but they have a commanding presence and a big personality. Unlike many spitz dogs, the Pom has always been a companion breed and royals and notable historical figures, including Marie Antoinette and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, were enthusiasts. Discover more about Pomeranians at AKC’s Pomeranian Breed Biography.

Basenji

• The Basenji, Africa's “Barkless Dog,” is a compact, sweet-faced hunter of intelligence and poise. They are unique and beguiling pets, best for owners who can meet their exercise needs and the challenge of training this catlike canine. Basenjis are small, graceful hounds standing 16 or 17 inches at the shoulder. They are recognizable by their glistening short coat, tightly curled tail, wrinkled forehead, and expressive almond-shaped eyes that convey a variety of subtle, humanlike emotions. Basenjis are a lovely sight at a standstill but more impressive yet at a fast trot when they exhibit the long, smooth strides of a mini-racehorse. Discover more about Basenjis at AKC’s Basenji Breed Biography.

Yakutian Laika

• Yakutian Laikas are used for herding, pulling sleds, and hunting. They were developed in ancient times for natives of Yakutia as indispensable assistants. This versatile dog will be happy by your side or participating in agility, coursing ability, herding, or sledding. The breed is extremely gentle and considerate with children to whom it commonly establishes especially tight bonds. Discover more about Yakutian Laikas at AKC’s Yakutian Laika Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• The earliest known evidence of people putting dogs to work can be found on Russia’s Zhokhov Island.
• During the Great Serum Run of 1925, Togo was crucial in delivering the diphtheria antitoxin to Nome.
• A dog’s inclination towards peace rather than conflict distinguishes them from their wolf relatives.