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

In this episode of Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives, we explore the dog 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, Sibes 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. Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberi...

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: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/alaska...

Yakutian Laika
Yakutian Laikas were developed in ancient times by native people of Yakutia as indispensable assistants in conditions where the slightest demonstration of weakness (on the part of man or dog) often resulted in death. Yakuts always received a respectful attitude from their human family, which treated them as a family member rather than a simple domestic animal. This means that Yakuts developed into fabulous companion dogs, devoted, lively and biddable. Discover more about Yakutian Laikas: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/yakuti...

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: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/samoyed/

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: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chinook/

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 does not tolerate high heat well. Discover more about Chow Chows: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chow-c...

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: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pomera...