Northern Inuit Dog
Also known as Ni · Northern Inuit
United Kingdom, Spitz and northern dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 59–76 cm
- Weight
- 25–48 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Gentle
- Wolf-like
- Stubborn
- Sociable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Northern Inuit Dog
The Northern Inuit Dog is a large, wolf-like dog developed in the UK. It became widely known after dogs of this type appeared as the direwolves in a popular fantasy television series. It is a dog, not a wolf hybrid, though it was bred to look like a wolf.
Temperament
Northern Inuits are often gentle, friendly and very people-orientated, but they can be stubborn and easily bored. Many dislike being left alone and may howl, dig or chew when unhappy. Their size and strength mean they need a confident, consistent owner.
Exercise
Plan on at least one to two hours of exercise every day, plus mental challenges. They suit active homes with secure gardens.
Grooming
A thick double coat sheds heavily, particularly at the seasonal moults, when daily brushing is needed. Otherwise a couple of brushes a week keeps it in order.
Care & wellbeing
After their television fame, many were bought on impulse and later handed to rescues, so think carefully about the time and space they need. Choose a breeder who health-tests for hips, elbows and eyes. Large-breed puppies should be grown steadily, not rapidly. Seizures, weakness in the back legs or a swollen abdomen need prompt veterinary help.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 36.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.5 L–2.2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,660 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Northern Inuit Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Northern Inuit was developed in Britain from the late 1980s, mainly from Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes and German Shepherd Dogs, with the aim of creating a wolf-like companion. Some early accounts claimed imported Inuit dogs were involved, but this is disputed. Breeding disagreements led to splinter groups that went on to form related types, such as the Utonagan and Tamaskan. The breed is kept by its own societies rather than major kennel clubs.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Eye conditions
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
- Eye examination
- Degenerative myelopathy DNA test
Not every Northern Inuit Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Northern Inuit Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Northern Inuit Dog get?
Adult Northern Inuit Dogs typically stand about 59–76 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–48 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Northern Inuit Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Northern Inuit Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Northern Inuit Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Northern Inuit Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Northern Inuit Dogs shed?
A lot, especially in seasonal moults. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Northern Inuit Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Northern Inuit Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Northern Inuit Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, epilepsy. Not every Northern Inuit Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United Kingdom
- Type
- Spitz and northern dogs
- Recognition
- Kept by its own breed societies; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club