Some might describe the Tamaskan as a “breed-in-progress,” but others will insist that the dogs are well past that point.

Tamaskans were first bred in the early 2000’s from a blend of imported American sled type dogs, Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes and German Shepherd Dogs. Other feral-looking sled dogs were added by Finnish breeders to improve Tamaskans with the ultimate goal of creating a feral looking dog with working ability. Pinpointing the country of origin for the breed is tricky since Tamaskans were bred in Finland, Britain and America before the bloodlines were closed in 2006. It could mean that all three are the countries of origin. The breed’s name, however, is inherently American, as in Native American.  Tamaska means “Mighty Wolf” in a North American Indian language.

The first Tamaskan pups imported into America arrived in 2005 with a litter arriving in 2007. Since that time, Tamaskans have gained in popularity and some estimate that there are over 600 registered Tamaskan Dogs worldwide. In October 2007, a Tamaskan named “Genghis Khan” was portrayed as a wolf in a music video for the band Lucretia Choir, and in November 2013, Tamaskans were recognized by the American Rare Breed Association, as well as by the Kennel Club of the United States. One source we found suggested that the Tamaskan may yet be recognized by the American AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS), but we can’t as yet find verification for that.  As an aside, North Carolina State University has as its mascot, “Tuffy,” a Tamaskan.

The official registration body for the dogs is the Tamaskin Club of America based in North Carolina , and they’ve taken the unusual step of not only warning against substandard breeders, but of pinpointing Elizabeth City, North Carolina, as a particular problem area. 

Photo by Allison Laing via Wikicommons