Tamaskan
Description
The Tamaskan is a striking breed designed to look like a wolf, with roots tracing back to Finland in the 1980s. It’s a blend of Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, and German Shepherd, carefully bred to combine wolf-like looks with domestic dog traits. Their medium-length, dense double coat comes in shades like Wolf Gray, Red Gray, and Black Gray Agouti, often marked with distinctive masks that vary from full to minimal. These dogs weigh between 50 and 99 pounds, making them solidly built yet agile. Tamaskans are known for their spirited nature and vocal tendencies, so they need an owner ready for an active, talkative companion. They thrive in homes where they get plenty of exercise and mental challenges, and early training helps manage their stubborn streak.
Grooming
Tamaskans have a medium, dense double coat that sheds heavily during spring and fall. To keep their coat healthy and minimize loose hair around the house, brushing three times a week is essential, with daily sessions during heavy shedding seasons. Use an undercoat rake to remove dead fur effectively and prevent matting. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps maintain coat cleanliness, but always follow up with a thorough blow-dry to loosen and remove dead undercoat hair. - Brush 3× weekly; daily in shedding season - Use an undercoat rake for dead fur - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, then blow-dry - Pay attention to mask areas for dirt buildup Pro tip: Blow-drying after baths during spring and fall is the best way to manage heavy shedding and keep your Tamaskan’s coat looking its wolf-like best.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Tamaskans require about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to burn off their abundant energy. A morning walk of 45 minutes followed by a 55-minute evening stroll works well to keep them physically and mentally satisfied. These dogs enjoy varied routes and opportunities to sniff and explore, which helps reduce boredom and curb excessive barking. Example routine: - Morning: 45-minute brisk walk with some off-leash time in a secure area - Evening: 55-minute walk including obedience training and scent games Consistent walking routines help channel their energy positively and strengthen your bond.
Boarding
When boarding a Tamaskan, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their size comfortably. They thrive with two active play sessions daily, combined with scent and brain games to engage their sharp minds. Staff should be prepared for their vocal nature and ensure plenty of physical activity to prevent restlessness. These dogs enjoy interactive toys and puzzle feeders during downtime. Because they can be stubborn, consistent handling and positive reinforcement are key to keeping them happy and cooperative while away from home. Regular socialization with other dogs helps maintain their friendly demeanor.