Chinook
The Chinook is described by the AKC as devoted, smart, patient, a member of the Working Group, originally from United States.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55-90 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Devoted / Smart / Patient [1] |
| AKC group | Working Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 198 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
While they often appear relaxed and mellow around the house, Chinooks have a tremendous amount of energy, and they thrive on exercise and play. Because they bond strongly with their owners, they make great companions on long walks, hikes, bicycle rides, and camping trips. They even enjoy swimming and boating with their human family. [1]
Grooming
The Chinook's plush double coat is fairly easy to care for. Like all mammals, Chinooks shed a bit throughout the year. Weekly brushing will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Chinook is a robust, healthy breed, but there are certain health conditions that it is prone to. These include hip dysplasia, cryptorchidism (the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum), gastrointestinal disorders, and allergies. Some Chinooks suffer from a condition called 'Chinook seizures,' although it is generally thought to be a movement disorder and not true seizures. As with all breeds, a Chinook's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Chondrodysplasia (Karelian Bear Dog & Norwegian Elkhound) - DNA Test, Multidrug Resistance 1 (MDR1) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Chinook in 2013. [1]
- It ranked No. 198 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 177 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Chinook.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 5/5
Common questions
How long do Chinooks live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Chinook get?
AKC breed information lists height 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female) and weight 55-90 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Chinook?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Chinook, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.