The State Dog of New Hampshire has something to woof about these dog days of frigid January.On Jan. 1, the American Kennel Club (AKC) welcomed two new breeds into its doghouse, the Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (which is joining the hound group) and the renowned sled dogs known as the Chinook (becoming part of the working group). They were named the breed of the week recently as well, notes Patty Richards of the AKC, who added that there are “less than 1,000 registered Chinooks in the United States, two in the United Kingdom, and one in Australia.” Among those welcoming the designation was local historian, frequent New Hampshire Humanities Council Chinook history lecturer and Chinook dog owner Bob Cottrell of Tamworth.“I think it’s great for the breed. It’s a recognition of their proud history, and of their future,” said Cottrell, who is director of the Conway Public Library’s Henney History Room, and a past director of the Remick Country Doctor Museum in Tamworth.An expert on the colorful story of the Chinook, Cottrell and his wife Debra annually look forward to the Tamworth Outing Club’s hosting of the New England Sled Dog races on Lake Chocorua.Read more here: http://www.conwaydailysun.com/index.php/newsx/local-news/94932-the-chinooks-of-tamworth-sled-dog-races-celebrate-rich-local-lore
