Top Activities For Northern Inuit Dogs

Introduction

The Northern Inuit is a recently developed dog breed that closely resembles a wolf. With the intention of creating a wolf-like dog with domestic qualities, breeders used different dogs such as Samoyeds, Siberian Huskies, German Shepherds and some Inuit breeds to create the Northern Inuit. Developed in the United Kingdom, Northern Inuits are only recognized by their own independent club. However, thanks to the breed’s feature (the “direwolves”) in the massive hit show Game of Thrones, the Northern Inuit has seen a surge in popularity. Athletic, quick-witted and loyal, Northern Inuits can make for well-adjusted home pets. With the right activities, Northern Inuit owners can easily keep their dogs satisfied.

Canicross Running

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Cheap

Easy

30 - 60 min

Items needed

Dog harness

Bungee cord

Waist belt

Water

Food

Activity description

Canicross, sometimes referred to as CaniX, is a sport which involves cross country running with canines. The sport originated in Europe and was initially done as a training routine for sledding communities during the off-season. However, it started to become accepted as a standalone sport and eventually made its way across Europe, although it is most popular in the United Kingdom. The dog breeds that were originally used for canicross were sledding types, particularly Malamutes or Huskies. This is why the Northern Inuit is a great choice for this sport. This sport can be done in almost any type of weather, from summer to winter, provided that you have all the necessary gear.

Step

1

Get your gear ready

When it comes to canicross running, you will need the right kind of gear before you can start with the sport. If you think that your dog’s ordinary walking or car harness will be good enough, think again. These harnesses are not built for the sport. Instead, check out some outdoor gear stores or pet specialty shops and look for a harness especially made for sports. Also, get a waist belt and a bungee leash, which you will use to attach yourself to the harness. It might be on the more pricey side but think of it as an investment, especially since you can use these items for other sports such as skijoring, sledding and scootering.

Step

2

Do some running

When you have all the gear ready, set it up. Put the harness on your dog and wear the waist belt on you. Then, attach yourself to your dog via the bungee leash. Head out and find a place to jog in. While a run around your neighborhood will do, you may also go to a dog park or even a state park where dogs are allowed. Don’t forget to hydrate every now and then between your running sessions.

Step

3

Join a club

If you and your dog find yourselves enjoying canicross running, you may want to take things a little bit further by joining a canicross running club. While the sport is more popular in Europe, there are a couple of affiliate clubs in the United States that you can join. Just get in touch and find out how you can be part of the club.

Skijoring

Popular

0 Votes

Cold Day

Moderate

Normal

30 - 60 min

Items needed

Ski

Harness

Skijoring gear

Activity description

The Northern Inuit is a breed that is used to, and even thrives on, the cold weather. Take advantage of this quality by trying out skijoring with your dog. This winter sport, whose name comes from the Norwegian term meaning “ski driving”, involves a person on skis being pulled by a dog. This sport is somewhat similar to canicross running, but with the use of skis and the presence of snow. Again, the Northern Inuit is a top choice for this sport because of their pulling abilities and ability to last in cold weather. This sport is a fun way to stay active and bond with your dog.

Step

1

Prepare your skijoring gear

You would want to get the proper gear for your dog, especially if you are going to do skijoring often. If you have the proper harness for canicross running, you can also use it for skijoring. There are also lots of stores that sell skijoring starter kits. Invest in that and make sure that it will fit your dog comfortably. Also, don’t forget to get some booties to keep the ice off of your dog’s paws.

Step

2

Train your dog

The key to success in skijoring is having your dog understand the different commands that you will use. Your dog needs to fully understand and follow these commands because you will be using them a lot once you are out there in the slopes. For instance, the word “hike” is often used to get your dog to start running. “Gee” means turn left while “Haw” means turn right. When you make a kissing sound, that means you want your dog to go faster and when you say “Easy”, that means you want the dog to slow down. “Whoa” is also used to get your dog to stop. These are the basic commands used in most canine winter sports. Take time to teach your dog these commands for a safe and fun skijoring experience.

Step

3

Find a skijoring spot

Once you are confident in your dog’s abilities to understand commands, it is time to go out there and enjoy the winter snow. Find a dog-friendly park or ski-trail where you can go on your own with your dog. There are plenty of places like these in the United States, you just have to do your research. When you find the perfect place, have some fun!

Hiking

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Cheap

Normal

1 to 2 hrs

Items needed

First aid kit

Food

Water

Hiking gear

Waste bag

Leash

Activity description

Hiking is one of the best ways to exercise and test your physical limits while taking in the beauty of the outdoors. The only way to make your hike even better is to bring your pooch with you. Northern Inuits are an active breed that needs a substantial amount of physical activity. If you are a hiker, whether recreational or professional, your dog would definitely love to tag along as your hiking buddy. Exploring new places is an exciting prospect for dogs; for them, it is a whole lot of new sounds, sights and smells. You can also use your hiking trip as a way to bond and form a deeper connection with your furry friend.

Step

1

Choose a hiking spot

Before, the most challenging part that comes with hiking with your dog is finding a place to do it. Nowadays, however, state parks and hiking spots have now opened their doors to hikers’ four-legged buddies, as long as the rules are being followed. Just do a quick search of dog-friendly hiking spots in your area and you will surely find one that meets your needs.

Step

2

Pack the necessities

Before you go on a hike, you need to make sure that you are well-prepared for it. Pack enough food and water for both you and your pooch. Also, bring a first aid kit in case of emergencies or injuries. If you are hiking during the wee hours of the morning, make sure that your dog gets a poncho or jacket to keep them from getting cold. Finally, bring a leash as some parks require dogs to be kept on a leash while on the hiking trail.

Step

3

Go on your hike

After you have packed everything and are good to go, get out there to your chosen hiking spot and go on a hike. Do not push your dog too much and just take it easy. In fact, recreational hiking should not be too extreme. Take time to stop every now and then to rest, hydrate and appreciate the view. Also, don’t forget to clean up after your dog in consideration of the other hikers.

More Fun Ideas...

Dog Scootering

Scootering involves the use of dogs to pull an unmotorized scooter with a human riding in it. This activity is very similar to mushing, with the scooter in place of a sled. The same harness used by sled dogs are used in dog scootering, which is then attached to the user via a gangline. Northern Inuits are perfect for dog scootering because of their strength and high levels of energy.

Dine In

Contrary to popular belief, Northern Inuits actually have moderate exercise requirements. In fact, the breed will be more than happy to relax with their owners indoors after they have used up their energy or blown off steam. After an active day together, take this chance to unwind by preparing a home cooked meal for yourself and a special treat for your dog.

Conclusion

The Northern Inuit is a relatively new breed that needs an owner who asserts leadership. However, owners of the breed should also strike a balance between control and tolerance. Using the activity ideas listed above, Northern Inuit owners will be able to properly exercise their dogs and utilize their skills while having fun at the same time.