Utonagan Health issues

The conditions and disorders mostly known to be affecting Utonogans have generally only occurred in those lines where inbreeding (closely related dogs) and line-breeding (dogs from the same lines) has been rife.

Utonagan Temperament

The Utonagan is a dog with a superb and well balanced temperament making for a wonderful family dog and companion. They love the company of people and a quite good with children. They can also be well socialised with other household pets from an early age. They are not a dog that likes to be left alone and problems may arise if they are, such as destructive behaviour and escaping. They have a high pack mentality; they respect a pack hierarchy and need a firm, strong leader who they can respect. Training wise, they are quite receptive and are quick, intelligent learners. They respond best to a reward based training schedule. They are very intelligent dogs, who are given to being quite boisterous and energetic in play, and can do well at many activities such as flyball and agility when that energy is focused.

LAYKA

Suitability as a family pet

The Utonagan dog is very friendly and personable, and actively enjoys the company of children. They like playing and messing around with kids, and are one of the best dog breeds to introduce children to for the first time, as their temperaments are even and they are honest in terms of the body language and signals that they give off.

They do tend to be fairly dominant dogs, so it is important to ensure that they do not try to herd the children or harass them for treats and table scraps, but other than this, the Utonagan is an excellent choice for fit, active families. The Utonagan enjoys being involved in all aspect of family life, going out with the family, and being included in play in the garden and in the park with the kids too.

Connor