ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISTamaskan
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog tamaskan!
Here, you will find all the useful information about tamaskan. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
An extremely rare breed, the Tamaskan is still under development. Originating from Finland, it results from the crossbreeding of Nordic dogs such as the Husky, the Alaskan Malamute, and the German Shepherd.
The breed's creators aimed to produce a dog resembling a wolf while retaining good qualities as both a companion and a working dog. Mainly selected in Northern Europe, the Tamaskan is also found in the United Kingdom and the United States, with a few hundred individuals. Although the initial crossbreeding took place in the 1980s, few breeders integrated this breed into their programs. Nevertheless, its popularity has been steadily growing since the beginning of the century.
In 2006, the first official breed club was established in Scotland, the "Tamaskan Dog Register," where a group of breeders strives to define and preserve the breed's standards. To this day, the breed is still not recognized by the International Canine Federation.
The physical characteristics of the Tamaskan are similar to those of its ancestors, the Wolf, the Saarloos Wolfdog, and the Alaskan Malamute. It's a robust, solidly built, and well-proportioned breed. Despite its large size, it maintains clean and dynamic lines. Its height exceeds its length, and its body is square in shape. The backline is straight, with a slight curve at the loin. The tail is long, thick, and generously coated.
The Tamaskan possesses a sturdy bone structure, broad and powerful shoulders, and a well-developed hindquarters. This pronounced musculature gives it explosive energy. Its head is proportional to the rest of its body, resembling that of a wolf, with straight ears held erect on the skull and a shallow stop.
As for its coat and undercoat, they change with the seasons, typical of primitive canids. In winter, the coat is medium-long, dense, and compact, while in summer, it sheds to reveal a short and more airy coat. Coat colors accepted by the standard include black, wolf-grey, and agouti.
The temperament of the Tamaskan seems similar to that of its ancestors. It requires the presence of fellow pack members to flourish within a group and to understand hierarchy. However, human interaction is essential for its socialization and well-being. Without this crucial engagement, the wild and independent temperament of its ancestors could resurface. Consequently, this breed is not suitable for novice dog owners. Its stubborn nature requires consistent firmness and tenacity during training.
The Finnish Lapphund has difficulty tolerating solitude. Prolonged repeated absences of its owner could lead to anxiety. If left waiting for too long, it might become destructive or prone to escaping. Its predatory instinct is highly developed, making cohabitation with small animals rather complex, though not impossible, depending on its education from a young age.
Adopting a Tamaskan demands time, patience, and availability. Its daily exercise needs are high. Long walks and expansive spaces are necessary for its well-being. Energetic and robust, it's an extremely active companion who, with proper training, will willingly engage in a close bond with its owner, ready to accompany and protect them in any circumstance.
As an adult, the Tamaskan weighs between 30 and 50 kg (66 to 110.2 lbs) and stands between 60 and 85 cm (23.6 to 33.5 inches) at the withers.
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Origins
The Tamaskan is a relatively new breed of dog, originating from Finland. Created in the 1980s, this breed aims to resemble a wolf while having the gentle temperament of a family dog. Tamaskans are the result of crossings between various breeds of Nordic working dogs, including the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute, and the German Shepherd. Breeders carefully selected these breeds to get a sturdy, intelligent dog with a wild look, without the unpredictable characteristics of wolf hybrids.
History
The history of the Tamaskan begins in the 1980s when breeders in Finland set out to create a dog breed that would resemble a wolf while being an excellent companion animal. The initial crossings included Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, German Shepherds, and other Nordic breeds. The goal was to combine the robustness and appearance of the wolf with a gentle and domestic temperament. In 2006, the breed was officially named Tamaskan, and since then, it has gained popularity worldwide.
Standard
The Tamaskan breed standard describes a large, well-proportioned and muscular dog, with an appearance resembling that of a wolf. Males measure between 63 and 84 cm at the withers and weigh between 30 and 45 kg, while females measure between 61 and 81 cm and weigh between 25 and 40 kg. Their coat is dense and double-layered, with a color ranging from wolf gray to red gray. The eyes are almond-shaped and can be yellow, amber or brown. The ears are straight and triangular, adding to their wolf-like appearance.
Physical characteristics
The Tamaskan is a large dog with a very wolf-like appearance. Males measure between 63 and 84 cm at the withers, and females between 61 and 81 cm. Their weight varies between 30 and 45 kg for males and between 25 and 40 kg for females. The coat is dense and double, providing good protection against the weather. The color of the coat can vary from wolf gray to gray red. The eyes, almond-shaped, are often amber or yellow, while the ears are straight and triangular.
Character
The Tamaskan is an intelligent, loyal, and sociable dog. It is known for its balanced temperament and great adaptability, making it an excellent companion for families. Although it looks like a wolf, it is gentle and affectionate with loved ones. The Tamaskan generally gets along well with other pets and loves human company. It is an active dog that requires mental and physical stimulation. Its protective and vigilant nature also makes it a good guard dog, without being aggressive.
Life expectancy
The Tamaskan enjoys a relatively long life expectancy for a dog of its size, typically between 14 and 16 years. This longevity is attributable to good genetics and proper care. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and frequent veterinary visits are essential to maintain its health and prolong its life. By carefully monitoring its health and responding promptly to any signs of illness, owners can help maximize the lifespan of their Tamaskan.
Exercise and activity needs
The Tamaskan is a very active dog that needs a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. He requires at least one to two hours of intense activity per day, including long walks, interactive games, and mental exercises. Dog sports like agility or canicross are perfect for him. Without enough exercise, the Tamaskan can become bored and destructive. Providing this dog with regular physical and mental challenges is essential for his overall well-being and to prevent unwanted behaviors.
Recommended diet
The Tamaskan needs a balanced and protein-rich diet to support its high activity level and maintain its health. High-quality food, mainly composed of meat, is recommended. Owners can choose premium kibble or a raw diet, after consulting with a veterinarian. The monthly cost of food for a Tamaskan varies between 60 and 100 euros, depending on the brands and types of food chosen. A good diet contributes to its longevity and vitality.
Training and obedience
The Tamaskan is an intelligent and eager to please dog, making it relatively easy to train. It responds well to positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and encouragement. Early socialization is crucial for developing a balanced behavior. Training sessions should be varied and stimulating to maintain its interest. Due to its intelligence, the Tamaskan can excel in various canine sports and working activities. Consistent and patient training will help make this dog a well-behaved and obedient companion.
Behavior with children
The Tamaskan is generally very good with children. Its gentle and protective nature makes it an excellent playmate for the younger ones. It is patient and tolerant, but due to its size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid unintentional accidents. Teaching children to respect the dog and interact appropriately is crucial to ensure a harmonious coexistence. With proper socialization, the Tamaskan can become an affectionate and protective member of the family.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Tamaskan is a sociable dog that generally gets along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. Its friendly nature and balanced temperament make it easy to live with other animals. It is important to socialize the Tamaskan from a young age so that it learns to interact properly with its peers. Initial introductions should be supervised to avoid any conflicts. With proper socialization, the Tamaskan can live harmoniously with various pets in a loving home.
Grooming needs
The Tamaskan has a dense double coat that requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing is essential to prevent mats and keep the coat clean. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing is needed to manage hair loss. Baths can be given every two to three months, or more often if the dog gets dirty. It is also important to regularly check and clean the ears, eyes, and trim the nails. Occasional professional grooming can help maintain the appearance and health of the coat.
Health
The Tamaskan is generally a robust breed with few known genetic health problems, but like all breeds, it can be subject to certain conditions. Potential health problems include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and some allergies. Regular veterinary visits, balanced nutrition, and exercise are essential to maintain the health of this dog. It is also important to choose responsible breeders who perform health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases.
Average price
The price of a Tamaskan puppy can vary considerably depending on the breeder, lineage, and location. On average, a puppy of this breed costs between 1,200 and 2,500 euros. Puppies from high-quality lineages or intended for shows can fetch higher prices. It is crucial to choose a reputable breeder who tests their breeders for genetic diseases and raises their puppies in healthy and socialized conditions. This ensures a healthy puppy well-suited to its future family.
Expenses
Annual expenses for a Tamaskan include food, veterinary care, grooming, accessories, and health insurance. On average, you should budget between 1,000 and 1,500 euros (approximately 1,100 to 1,650 dollars) per year. This includes around 800 euros for food, 300 euros for routine veterinary care, and 200 to 400 euros for grooming and various accessories. These costs may vary depending on the specific needs of each dog and any additional expenses related to health or specific activities.
Name ideas
For a Tamaskan, names that evoke the wild nature and robustness are appropriate. For example, "Luna" means moon, reflecting its connection to nature. "Koda" is a Native American name meaning friend, ideal for a loyal companion. "Shadow" evokes discretion and elegance. "Thor" reminds of the powerful Nordic god. "Skye" suggests freedom and vastness. "Echo" is perfect for a dog with a strong presence. "Zephyr" means gentle wind, suitable for its graceful appearance. "Raven" evokes intelligence and mystery. "Dakota" means ally, and "Storm" suggests strength and dynamism.
Legislation and regulation
The Tamaskan is not subject to specific legislation regarding potentially dangerous dog breeds in France. There are therefore no particular restrictions on owning this breed. However, as with all dogs, it is mandatory to have them identified by microchip or tattoo, and to vaccinate them regularly. It is also recommended to check local regulations, as some municipalities may have specific rules regarding dog ownership, such as the use of a leash and picking up feces.
Official recognition
The Tamaskan is not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) but is recognized by several international registries and breed associations. In France, it is registered with the Tamaskan Dog Register (TDR). In the United States, it is recognized by the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA). The official organization of the breed in its country of origin, Finland, is the Tamaskan Dog Register, which plays a crucial role in maintaining standards and promoting the breed. These organizations ensure the purity and quality of the bloodlines.
Pedigrees
The pedigrees of the Tamaskan are available from various recognized breed clubs, including the Tamaskan Dog Register (TDR). In France, the Tamaskan France Club manages pedigrees and provides information on the pedigrees and backgrounds of registered dogs. In the United States, the Tamaskan Dog Registry (TDR) and the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) are responsible for registration. These clubs offer valuable resources for breeders and owners, ensuring the purity and quality of the breed. Pedigrees are essential for traceability and line improvement.
Destination and usage
The Tamaskan is a versatile dog mainly used as a pet because of its gentle and sociable temperament. It also excels in various canine sports such as agility, canicross, and sledding, thanks to its great endurance and robustness. Due to its wolf-like appearance, it is sometimes used in the entertainment industry and for photo shoots. Its protective and loyal nature also makes it a good guard dog, although it is not aggressive. The Tamaskan is ideal for active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Prohibitions
There are no specific restrictions on the possession of Tamaskan in most countries. However, it is essential to comply with local regulations regarding dog ownership, especially in terms of vaccination, identification, and public behavior. Some countries or regions may have specific rules on leash and dog control in public spaces. By following these rules, owners can enjoy their Tamaskan's company without facing any legal issues.
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