The Calupoh is a wolf-hybrid-turned-actual-breed that was created, and recognized, in Mexico. Recognized by the Federación Canófila Mexicana in 1999, it was developed in order to recreate Mexican wolfdogs as depicted in various cultural artwork and stories. The breed has only been around since the 1990’s but has won the hearts of many! With a dignified nature and striking, wolf-like appearance, he can be a great companion for those who fit his unique lifestyle. The Calupoh is agile and athletic and does require daily exercise. And yes – he does howl!

The Calupoh is a large and leggy breed with a medium length double coat. This coat is rough textured on the outside while the undercoat is soft and plush, and a short mane on the neck is a distinctive feature. In terms of color, black or smoky black are the preferred colors although some dogs will be born silver, white or sable. These colors are accepted but not preferred. The ears are always erect and should be placed at an angle between 85 and 95 degrees, with the middle line of the eyes as the axis. This is part of the reason why the breed looks extra wolf-like. To add to the wolfy appearance, the eyes are very often a light yellow color (although dark eyes can appear).

Properly-raised Calupohs have even temperaments around their owners although many are very suspicious or even skittish around new situations. They can take a very long time to warm up to strangers and will often be extremely aloof (like a wolf). Their initial tendency when they are afraid is to back away or even run away. This means lots of early socialization is critical – and should be done on-leash (so they can’t dash too far) and with plenty of patience and understanding! Most are good with other dogs/pets and kids that they know as long as they were raised with them, although they may not be friendly with strange dogs. Take note this is not a guard dog and an owner will likely fail miserably trying to train one to fulfill this role.

During puppyhood and adolescence, the Calupoh can be destructive and may be prone to chewing up human belongings. Being fairly mouthy, he may also try to gnaw on on people as well! This is normal behavior however should be dealt with early in development so it doesn’t become a bigger problem as the dog matures. It is not a sign of aggression but rather just the breed’s mouthy tendencies.

The original kennel wherein all Calupohs stem from is called Criadero Caliente. All descendants therefore will go back to dogs from this kennel/breeder. Why is this important? It means that not every wolf-looking dog is a Calupoh, and a smart buyer should be sure to verify the pedigree before purchasing a puppy. Like similar breeds with recent wolf inclusion (such as the Czechoslovakian Vlcak and the Saarlooswolfdog), this is not the same thing as a random wolf-hybrid! Thousands of dogs went into the development of this breed so that it could be “come to be”, and the breed was put together with a lot of work, forethought and care. The same can’t necessarily be said for hybrids, which can be unpredictable in temperament and other traits.

The Calupoh needs ongoing training in order to be the best he can be. When training lessons are consistent, encouraging and fair the breed enjoys learning! Keep in mind that while this breed often loves to spend time with his owner, he is naturally independent-minded. This means that he is neither overly affectionate, nor is he a dog that lives to work. He wasn’t created in order to work with people so while he can (and should) be taught obedience, he might not be a star pupil. Some humans get dogs expecting them to provide endless affection and to have great desires to learn commands. That is not the typical temperament of this breed. The characteristic relationship between an owner and a Calupoh is one based on mutual respect and silent loyalty rather than one of exaggerated friendliness and perfect obedience scores. This is an important consideration for a prospective owner!

Calupohs require time and patience to raise, and despite being independent they do need plenty of owner interaction and care. A dog of this breed just left in the backyard all day will not bond with his owner, and may even become nervous around him/her! For this reason it is important that an owner spend a lot of time at home during not only puppyhood but the dog’s entire life. This is NOT a dog that thrives with owners that work all day. In addition, they require a home with plenty of room for them to move around and a securely fenced yard as they are escape artists. They aren’t generally difficult dogs to live with (after they get over the destructive phase) as they aren’t clingy, hyperactive, overwhelmingly needy (or even dirty) but they do need a specific type of owner/home.

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The Swedish White Elkhound all started from a very pale puppy born into a litter of Swedish Elkhounds in 1942. Light colored puppies are rare now, although occasionally showed up in litters of the various elkhound breeds and is speculated to have come from an early cross with a Samoyed. It was said that these white puppies possessed special “powers” that would cause moose to stand stock still while this breed was nearby. Interested by this phenomenon, fanciers began to investigate whether the white dogs (from both Swedish and Norwegian Elkhound litters) were also skilled hunters in addition to having this moose-hypnotizing skill set. As luck would have it many of them were, which led to the continued breeding and eventual recognition of the breed by the Swedish Kennel Club in 1993. Despite the word ‘elk’ in the name, this breed primarily hunted moose and also occasionally lynx, bear and badger.

The double coat of the Swedish White is easy to care for although does shed regularly. The coat is dense, straight and coarse to protect the dog from the elements. As might be guessed from the name, the breed is always solid white but can sometimes have a faint yellow tinge to the coat. This is a rectangular, medium-sized spitz with characteristic prick ears and curled tail. Breeding for the proper conformation is important – so much so that the parent club insists that every dog bred must have at least a rating of “sufficient” at a dog show in order to even be considered as a breeding prospect. In addition, each dog must also pass a hunting test as well as several health tests. This is to ensure the breed stays healthy, retains its hunting instincts, and doesn’t deviate physically from the standard.

White Elkhounds are always alert to the goings-on of their surroundings but are fairly calm in demeanor. They can make wonderful companions in the right home although it is important to understand that they are hunting dogs that will not be happy without a job. This is not a breed for someone looking for a dog to lounge around the house all day! When matched with a knowledgeable active owner and given training and engaging tasks to do, this spitz will thrive. Despite being fairly young as a breed, the future is bright for this hardworking and adept hunting dog!

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The Tang Dog – named for the Tang Dynasty, is an ancient Chinese spitz breed said by some to be the oldest dog breed in existence! Like many spitz they were bred for a multitude of functions including use as companions, watchdogs, hunting as well as (unfortunately) meat dogs. To make things confusing – while Tang Dog, or Tang Gau and/or Tong Gau can also refer to an unspecified “local street dog”, a mixed-breed dog, or even as a catchall term for any spitz type of Chinese origin, it is also a real breed in itself. The Tang Dog Association was established in the 2000’s in order to promote the breed and serve as the governing body/parent club and in 2017, a Tang Dog won the World Dog Show held by the Chinese Kennel Union.

The Tang is a medium-sized dog with a coat that is normally cream, red or black. They are compact, short-bodied and square with thick coats that can be either short or long/full. The erect ears are small and triangular and they are set high on a flat, wide head. The eyes are slightly slanted and often dark in color unless the coat is light, in which case a lighter eye is allowed. Like other Chinese relatives a blue-black tongue is a distinctive feature.

Tang dogs are loyal, playful and make excellent companions for families as they tend to have balanced temperaments. While they should never be either timid nor aggressive, they become courageous protectors if they need to be. They can adapt to many different household situations and are capable of living as only-dogs or with other pets when introduced from a young age. They do need daily exercise although as long as this is fulfilled they are generally calm and easygoing in the home. Tangs are intelligent and highly trainable as long as the owner stays consistent and patient. They do learn quickly although can sometimes be hard-headed. It’s best to start training and socializing at a young age.

The Danish Spitz is said to have existed in Denmark for many years, and is one of the five national breeds of Denmark. Going under various names such as the Samoyed-Spitz, Greenland-Spitz, Wolf-Spitz and the official name in Denmark – the Dansk Spids, this breed is relatively unknown by most. This unassuming little dog was said to have frequently played the part of “children’s companion”, and as such his main role was that of a friend and cherished companion. His secondary role was that of a general farm dog. In the late 80’s, the Danish Kennel Club published a breed standard, although this is still an extremely rare breed even in Denmark. He is likely heavily related to the German Spitz, with some fanciers even claiming that this breed is, in fact, a German Spitz cultivated in Denmark. Whether or not that is true, at this point the Danish line is officially its own breed.

The Danish Spitz gets along well with most everyone he meets, including other animals. He is slightly reserved when meeting someone new but quick to make friends as he is social and friendly. With his family he is gentle and very loyal. He does exceptionally well with kids as he is playful, affectionate and tolerant. He does need to live in a home where he isn’t left alone too frequently as he is wired to be around humans, and greatly appreciates all contact – whether in play, exercise or training! The temperament of this little spitz is paramount and one of the most important features of the breed.

Danish Spitz do tend to enjoy barking, particularly when they hear or see any change in their environment. They can function as a wonderful watch dog, and were even said to have originally played the guard dog role in their past! Although alert and lively in general, they are not likely to wander away or chase prey-like animals and would much prefer to stay around their humans and their home.

The Danish Spitz is easy to manage in the home and equally easy to train as long as training is kept relatively gentle. This sensitive breed also benefits from an early introduction to obedience so he knows what is expected of him from the start. His love of engaging in activities with his owner, his quick wit, and his problem solving abilities means that he’s usually fun to train in obedience! Furthermore he can be an excellent competitor in a number of dog sports!

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The Hmong (pronounced Mong) Stumpy Tail Dog is an exceptionally rare Vietnamese spitz breed. So rare, in fact, that it is only recognized by the Vietnam Kennel Association and nowhere else! An ancient dog, it one of Vietnam’s four national breeds. Like other multipurpose spitz, it was/is used for hunting, guarding, herding – and is even used for police and military work today. Their history is not fully known but they are thought to be the result of crossing naturally bobtailed dogs of China with Vietnamese jackals. These dogs accompanied the Hmong people that migrated to Vietnam, and in doing so became skilled at guiding their owners through complicated mountain paths. They have excellent memories when it comes to direction!

Mmongs are very intelligent dogs, however their ancient roots and jackal origins contribute to a primitive-type temperament. This has nothing to do with intelligence. Primitive types are more apprehensive, impulsive, independent and stubborn in general. That hasn’t stopped them from being trained by the police for border patrol and sniffer dog purposes however – so they are definitely trainable! They tend to learn quickly, especially when started at an early age, and have long memories. They are known to bark, so it is advisable to teach a quiet command while young.

The Hmong Stumpy is loving to his owner and develops a strong and loyal bond. When it comes to strangers, however, he is aloof towards them when off his property and can be very territorial when they encroach upon his home. He can make for a capable guard dog and may even be willing to die to protect his owner if he feels there is a true risk! While this is an admirable trait (in the right hands), it is vital to socialize extensively while young so he doesn’t become a liability. The breed is only recommended for experienced owners, for novices may find themselves in over their heads with a possessive and territorial animal that they can’t control.

Hmong Stumpy Tails are small to medium in size with a sturdy build. Their double coats are straight and stiff and come in brown, yellow, black or brindle colors. They are known for their cat-like faces, resulting from a large flat forehead and erect ears shaped like a cat’s. The most unique feature is the tail, which is a natural bobtail. Despite some substandard translations of the name which call the breed a “Hmong Docked Tail Dog”, most puppies are born without a tail rather than having it docked artificially. These dogs are very long lived, averaging 17-20 years, and are incredibly healthy. Most members are rugged, athletic and possess plenty of stamina and strength. They are hardy and are said to have extra strong immune systems.

The Hmong Stumpy Tail Dog is not known for getting along with cats, nor is he the best companion for children. A preferred home is a large one with a spacious yard, and devoid of small pets or small humans. An active dog, he does best in an area where he can stretch his legs and exert his energy. A favorite pastime is hunting, and he will likely spend much backyard time looking for small animals to chase! He does require regular exercise every day (up to an hour) to keep him from becoming frustrated, and this can range from a long walk to a sustained hiking excursion. Perhaps even memorizing the route as he goes, as did his ancestors!

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The Chukotka Sled Dog is an aboriginal spitz breed created in Russia by the Chukchi people. This breed was on the verge of extinction around the Soviet era, however was preserved and therefore still exists today. They are said to be the forerunner of the much more well-known Siberian Husky. These hardy spitzes were originally used to pull sleds in the extremely severe conditions of Siberia as far back as prehistoric times! Doing so would allow the sled-riders to hunt sea mammals in the icy terrain. Despite having been around for a very long time, it wasn’t until 1999 that they were officially recognized by the Russian Kynologic Federation.

The Chukotka is a strong breed with the capability for extraordinary endurance. This dog needs to be given suitable work in order to be happy, and unsurprisingly takes well to sled dog training as well as similar types of exercise. Most get along with other dogs naturally, a trait important for breeds that work in teams. They have tough foot pads that can endure the freezing ice and snow, a metabolism suited to an Arctic diet, and a thick weather-protective coat. Predictably, they are built to pull which means sledding teams utilizing this breed continuously win long-distance sled races!

Unfortunately there isn’t a lot of information on these beautiful ancient dogs seeing as how they are extremely rare. They are still recognized by the RKF but not by the larger FCI or seemingly any other registry. The vast majority of the breed’s population still exist in the harsh Siberian lands in which they have always lived. These dogs are still used for their original purpose and hopefully will always remain true to their working heritage.

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While the Northern Inuit Dog is a very rare breed, it’s possible you have seen one on TV if you watched Game of Thrones! Members of the breed played the Direwolves in the series (although the size was enhanced through CGI once the characters grew). The breed’s history dates back to the early 1980’s, when several dogs unspecified of origin were imported from North America into Britain. The goal was to create a breed which could work long hours as well as function as a pet – following the example of Inuit people who crossed dogs with wolves for a similar purpose. It should be noted, however, that Northern Inuits were primarily created as pets and while they can be given tasks their almost-entire purpose is that of a companion. While there is no wolf ancestry in the Northern Inuit, “wolf-like” breeds such as Siberians, Malamutes and Shepherds were definitely involved in the creation.

The Northern Inuit tends to do best in colder climates as he has a thick double coat and is highly related to Northern breeds, however he can live in warmer parts of the country with some care and common sense. Keeping him in air conditioning, making sure he always has water, scheduling walks for morning and evenings and giving him supervised access to a pool on extra hot days are all ways that can help accommodate this winterized breed to a warmer climate. Either way, make sure to never shave his coat as this will only make things worse for the dog!

Northern Inuit Dogs are intelligent but also known to become bored easily which means that training requires incorporating plenty of enthusiasm and diversity. They also are strong-willed, stubborn, and have a fairly high prey drive to boot. For this reason, they are not recommended for novice owners. That said, they are fully capable of passing a basic CGC test or reaching high levels of obedience when an owner puts in the work! They are also talented enough to participate in dog sports such as bikejouring, agility, sledding, scent work and canicross. Furthermore, some Northern Inuits have even been used as assistance dogs while others have done therapy work – which speaks as much as to their sociability as their trainability. Because they can reach giant-status in terms of size, every Inuit must be given basic obedience training at the very least!

Northern Inuits are often great with children although are not recommended for small kids because of their size and strength. Many also do well with other dogs who can put up with their rough (not aggressive) play style. They do have prey drive and may not be great around small pets although many owners with cats have had success integrating the two. Socialization to cats while the dog is still a young puppy can help encourage a smoother interaction down the line.

The Northern Inuit Dog, despite his intimidating wolf-like appearance, is not a guard dog for he is far too friendly and trusting. He should never be outright aggressive without very good reason. This loyal, friendly and affectionate dog is overall a lover and not a fighter. This said, he is likely to make noise which may deter some would-be intruders. Although he doesn’t bark much, many Northern Inuits howl – loudly! Which is something to consider if one is living close to neighbors…

Northern Inuits only require a moderate amount of exercise. One long walk a day is sufficient for most, although they can enjoy longer excursions with their owners such as hiking. Like all giant breeds, care should be taken when they are puppies not to over-exercise them as their growing joints are not built to handle super strenuous tasks. Along with physical exercise, they also need mental exercise as well which can take the form of training or interactive “brain games”. This breed is active outdoors although has the capability of being calm and relaxed in the house.

Northern Inuit Dogs exhibit some characteristics of other Northern breeds such as digging in the yard, but overall do not have all of the Northern spitz traits. This includes a lack of both typical “bad behaviors” of spitz breeds (wandering, hyperactivity), as well as “good features” such as sled pulling abilities. While a Northern Inuit Dog can pull a sled, it is unlikely he will possess the same endurance as his cousins who were bred for this particular task. This breed was created to be a pet rather than to be a workhorse, which puts him in a different category when it comes to dog ownership.

Northern Inuits are extremely social animals and known for following their owners from room to room. They are also less likely to try to escape and wander the neighborhood since they prefer to be in the company of “their people”. While flattering to many, be aware that this high social desire also makes them more prone to separation anxiety – the downside to dogs with “velcro personalities”. They will not do well in households where everyone is at work for long hours!

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The history of the Hallefors Elkhound goes back to a litter sired by an elk-hunting mixed breed and out of a Russian sled dog. Born in Hallefors, Sweden in the 1930’s, both parents had well-known hunting backgrounds. At least one of the puppies was later crossed with other prized elk-hunting dogs, and later Finnish Spitz blood was infused into this new breed as well. These new spitzes were prized for their hardiness, hunting ability and intelligence. They are said to be “one man dogs” but are adaptable and well-prized in their country of origin – even known for their bravery when facing bear! They were recognized by the Swedish Kennel Club in the year 2000 although are practically unheard of in most of the world as they are extremely low in numbers.

Because the gene pool is so small, any single Hallefors is not permitted to be bred any more than three times in its lifetime. Furthermore, the breed has an open stud book at the moment which means that any dog (whether or not a purebred Hallefors) which meets the criteria set by the breed club can potentially be used in the bloodline – as long as it has been given permission. The criteria include having a traceable pedigree (so that health and hunting ability can be monitored), an appearance very similar to that of the Hallefors (rated at special shows), health tests with passing scores, and must be proven to have very good hunting ability. The Hallefors bloodline is constantly monitored and the breed club may make additional suggestions as time goes on to ensure the breed remains healthy and keeps the important traits necessary for continuation as a whole.

The Hallefors Elkhound is a squarely built spitz with a tail carried loosely over the back. It is a medium sized dog with a short yet thick and harshly textured coat. The color is always red in a variety of shades, with or without a dark muzzle. There should be lighter coloration on the underside of the dog. For a breed with an open studbook, fanciers are doing a great job keeping members of the breed fairly uniform and standardized.

The Hallefors is very cooperative when hunting with his owner, and is a loyal friend at all times. Aggression towards humans is really not seen, although of course prey drive is alive and well in the breed! The Hallefors is alert, lively and usually very excited to work and hunt. He is said to be fairly submissive and easy to keep in a household setting as he understands his place in the hierarchy of the home. This is a great family dog as he is friendly and social with those he knows, although is much more reserved when around strangers. Hallefors Elkhounds take well to training and learn easily. It is hoped that the breed will continue to grow under the watchful eye of the parent club, for this is a spitz that is worth preserving!

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The Indian Spitz – while virtually unheard of in America – became one of India’s most popular breeds because of the country’s strict importation laws in the 1980’s and 90’s which made importing dogs into the country difficult. Citizens turned to local breeds because they were easier to access as pets. Where did this breed originally come from? It is said that during the 19th century, British people brought dogs into the country which were descended from the German Spitz. These dogs were bred with the goal of making them more suited to living in the hot climate of India. The adaptable and highly intelligent Indian Spitz was born! Recognized by the Indian Kennel Club, they are not recognized by the FCI or elsewhere in the world.

Indians can easily live in apartments if necessary, but do require some exercise every day. Active and lively, they are also happy to live in larger properties. There are two sizes of the breed – the “lesser” which is no larger than 15 pounds and the “greater”, which can top out at 44 pounds! Either size can live in any type of home as long as their exercise needs are met. Overall, however, even the greater size is still a relatively small dog and exercising this spitz is generally easy. Most mature dogs (read: out of the puppy stage) will spend large portions of the day napping. In general, with only moderate exercise and plenty of care, Indians are very healthy as a breed and usually live 12-14 years on average.

The Indian Spitz often get confused with a Pomeranian and although the breeds are related, they are two entirely separate breeds. It doesn’t help matters that many people in India actually refer to their spitz as Pomeranians or Indian Pomeranians. This isn’t the case! Indian Spitz are bigger in height and weight and have less coat – both in terms of length and density. Furthermore, they have more elongated faces and pointier ears. Finally the Indian’s fluffy double coat can only come in one of three colors – white, black or brown. This differs from the rainbow of colors that the Pom is allowed to appear in.

The Indian can make a great watchdog because of his alert nature and eagerness to bark, but is a gentle companion with his family. He is loyal and playful – always up for spending time with those he loves. Most get along well with seniors and children although should be supervised when around young kids as he is unlikely to defend himself if treated unfairly. An owner must always be ready to advocate for their dog’s safety! This spitz also usually gets along with other pets including other dogs. A highly social breed, he doesn’t thrive when kept in a home where he spends lots of time alone and can be prone to separation anxiety.

The Indian Spitz is intelligent and learns easily when taught obedience or tricks. He is generally regarded as being easy to train and was even used as a circus dog in the past! If anything, this breed can be too clever and will get bored quickly if trained in the same routine every time. For this reason, mix it up to keep him on his toes! Because of his ease of training, this breed can be recommended for even novice dog owners.

Indians do need regular brushing twice a week to keep their glorious coats from matting. As they do shed (particularly during the summer), brush-outs will also help to pull out loose hair to minimize the amount that will drop all over the house. Keep in mind this is a high-shedding breed and no amount of brushing will completely stop this process, however. Baths can be given every 3-4 weeks or when needed although they tend to keep themselves fairly clean. Grooming shouldn’t be too daunting or difficult to keep up with. Keep the nails clipped, the teeth brushed, and use a preventative for fleas and ticks. Many Indian Spitz enjoy grooming time if the routine is started early and kept positive.

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The Nenets Herding Laika is an aboriginal spitz from Russia, said to be relatively unchanged from the Prehistoric era! This very old breed is the ancestor to many well-known spitz breeds today including the Samoyed. While virtually unknown to most of the world, they are recognized by the Russian Kynologic Federation who accepted the standard in 1994. Despite surviving near-extinction during the Soviet era, they are still low in numbers and not recognized by the FCI or the major registries in the United States. As evidenced by their name they were originally created to herd – particularly reindeer, although were sometimes also used to pull sleds.

Nenets Herding Laikas are intelligent and were bred to make their own decisions when needed. This means that obedience training may have some rocky moments when the dog decides there are better things to do! This said, with a bit of patience on the owner’s part, the breed actually can be very trainable and learns quickly. Make sure to stay firm yet fair, and be consistent in training. Furthermore, he is adaptive and versatile to enjoy a variety of dog sports including carting, herding, sledding, agility, conformation, tracking, flyball and competitive obedience.

Nenets are ultimate outdoor athletes and able to succeed in a number of physical tasks including search-and-rescue, customs services, police work, and service dog work in addition to their sled-pulling and herding capabilities. They were designed to work with people and therefore don’t do well in homes where they will be left to fend for themselves most of the day. They can be prone to separation anxiety. This breed can live happily with a large family or a single person, just as long as there is enough interaction to keep him happy.

Nenets Laikas are alert and curious by nature and may bark to alert when people come to the door although are not guard dogs. They enjoy meeting people and are fairly friendly when introduced to new humans (including kids) and animals alike. For best results, they should be socialized from an early age and exercised frequently to keep from becoming too hyper. This is a high-energy breed but not an aggressive one. In fact they are known for their pleasant temperament.

As might be surmised from their glorious coats, Nenets do shed a lot and need daily brushing when actively blowing coat! Despite their small-medium size they do have an abundance of hair after all. The double coat consists of a coarse outer coat and a thick, water resistant undercoat. The coat tends to be on the longer side and includes a visible neck frill as well as thick hair underneath the paw pads which allows the dog to move easily in snow. Other physical traits of this breed are the wedge-shaped head, small erect ears covered with thick hair, and slightly slanted eyes. Colors include grey, fawn, black, brown, red, white, black/tan, piebald or patched. The overall impression of the breed should be that of an enduring and energetic dog that can easily perform it’s duties.

The Nenets Laika is not an apartment dog as he is too high energy and playful to be content in a small space. He needs lots of room to stretch out and run, in addition to regular structured exercise. Making sure he stays physically fit will help to keep him healthy throughout his 13-14 years of life. In general the breed is hardy and no health issues plague this spitz in particular, but exercise is important to make sure he gets the most enjoyment out of life! Furthermore, while he was developed to live in a cold and icy climate, he can live in any climate as long as his owner uses common sense. Air conditioning, frequent brushing and keeping him out of the sun in hot temperatures will help keep him happy.

Image By Sergey.vlad.popov