This short docu-fiction film illustrates how traditionally dogs were used by the Netsilik Inuit, in winter and summer. We see puppies and sled dogs used as pack animals. Eskimo dogs were also used for hunting, being particularly skilful at sniffing out seal blowholes when deep snow covered the winter sea ice.
Please note that this is an archival film that makes use of the word “Eskimo,” an outdated and offensive term. While the origin of the word is a matter of some contention, it is no longer used in Canada. The term was formally rejected by the Inuit Circumpolar Council in 1980 and has subsequently not been in use at the NFB for decades. This film is therefore a time-capsule of a bygone era, presented in its original version. The NFB apologizes for the offence caused.
Tuktu and his Eskimo Dogs, Laurence Hyde, provided by the National Film Board of Canada