This rare American worker was developed in the early 1900's by Arthur Walden through crossing St. Bernard with German Shepherds, Greenland Huskies, Belgian Sheepdogs and Canadian Eskimo Dogs. The Guinness Book of World Records listed the Chinook as the "Rarest Dog in the World" in 1965 and it is said that only eleven pure specimens were left in existence by 1981, when dedicated breeders from California, Maine and Ohio started a serious salvation program. The breed was successfully revived and was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1991.

Excellent sled-dog, the Chinook also makes a capable property guardian and family pet. Its versatility is making the breed popular in a number of duties, such as herding, assisting the disabled, skijoring, flyball, weight-pulling, agility, obedience trials and so on. Early socialization and proper training are important, due to the breed's headstrong personality and dog-aggressive nature.

The coat is dense and flat. Average height is around 25 inches.