Bred to pair a wolf-like appearance with a companion-dog nature, it is usually friendly, bright and playful, and calm at home once its exercise needs are met.
Key facts
Size
Large
Weight
25 to 50 kg (55 to 110 lb)males 36 to 50 kg, females 25 to 38 kg1
Height
58 to 81 cm (23 to 32 in)males 58 to 81 cm, females 58 to 71 cm1
Bred to pair a wolf-like appearance with a companion-dog nature, it is usually friendly, bright and playful, and calm at home once its exercise needs are met.12
how to spot oneNorthern Inuit Dog coat and colours
thick double coat
A large, athletic dog bred to look like a wolf, with a dense weatherproof double coat, upright ears and a long, straight tail.12
Colourswhiteblacksable shades, with or without a white face mask1
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Northern Inuit Dog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
by countryIs the Northern Inuit Dog legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Northern Inuit Dog in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksNorthern Inuit Dog exercise needs
High. Needs a long, brisk daily walk or jog and room to move.1
the hands-on bitsNorthern Inuit Dog grooming and care
Brush and comb regularly, more often during shedding; bathe only when needed to protect the coat's natural oils.1
where they are happiestNorthern Inuit Dog at home
Suits an active home with adequate space; a large dog that does best with room indoors and a secure garden.1
where it all beganNorthern Inuit Dog history
Breeders in England began the Northern Inuit in the 1980s, crossing dogs imported from North America with Malamutes, German Shepherds and Huskies to create a wolf-like family dog. Disagreements among breeders later led to offshoots such as the Utonagan and, from those, the Tamaskan.123
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Northern Inuit dogs played the direwolves in the early seasons of the TV series Game of Thrones.2
2
The breed is a direct ancestor of the Utonagan and the Tamaskan Dog.3
3
It was deliberately bred to look like a wolf while having the temperament of a companion dog.2
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed was named 'Northern Inuit Dog' after the Inuit people of North America, Canada and Greenland, who legendarily mated dogs and wolves to create a working family pet. The name reflects the breed's wolf-like appearance and northern heritage.4
stars of the breedFamous ones
Dire Wolves in Game of Thrones Northern Inuit Dogs were used to portray the fictional Dire Wolves in the HBO series Game of Thrones.5
I wake with the dawn, stretching my long legs and giving a soft woof to the humans. They laugh and call me a sleepy wolf, but I know I'm just a big softie. After a quick breakfast (my favorite part of the morning), we head out for a long, brisk walk through the woods. I love the smells – pine, earth, and the faint trace of a squirrel. I trot beside my human, my tail waving like a flag. When we get home, I curl up on the sofa, watching the world go by through the window. In the afternoon, we play fetch in the garden – my human's throw is getting better. I bring the ball back every time, proud of my work. As the sun sets, I settle at their feet, content and happy. This is the life.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
Dog Registry of America (DRA)
Listed by the DRA; not a breed recognised by the FCI, The Royal Kennel Club or the AKC.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Northern Inuit Dog, and at what times?
Feed your Northern Inuit Dog at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Regular meal times help their digestion, so try to feed at the same times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.16Pet Wiki plan
What should a Northern Inuit Dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to their age and size is best. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.17Pet Wiki plan
How often should I bathe a Northern Inuit Dog?
Bathe your Northern Inuit Dog only when needed, about every 10 weeks, to protect their coat's natural oils. Over-bathing can dry their skin. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days.18Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Northern Inuit Dog need brushing?
Brush and comb your Northern Inuit Dog regularly, about every three days, and daily during heavy shedding. Their thick double coat needs this to stay healthy and reduce loose fur.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Northern Inuit Dog's nails, and how often?
Trim your dog's nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain. If unsure, ask a vet or groomer for help.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Northern Inuit Dog need?
This breed has high exercise needs and requires a long, brisk daily walk or jog, plus room to move. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily walks and play to keep them happy and calm at home.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Northern Inuit Dog's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth two to three times a week (daily is ideal) with dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without pushing anything into the ear canal. Never use human toothpaste.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Northern Inuit Dog live?
A Northern Inuit Dog typically lives between 12 and 14 years. With good care, regular vet checks, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long life.1
Is a Northern Inuit Dog good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are usually friendly, bright, and playful, making them good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their calm nature at home once exercised adds to their family-friendly temperament.12
Can a Northern Inuit Dog be left alone?
This varies by individual dog. They are social and may not do well alone for long periods. It's best to ask a good breeder or trainer for advice based on your dog's personality.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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