Snowmobiles and cross-breeding are fast leading to the end of the line for a dog breed called the Canadian Eskimo dog.

Dog breeders say extinction is a concern.

The Canadian Kennel Club says the worldwide population of registered Canadian Eskimo dogs has dropped to about 300 from 20,000 just 55 years ago.

Experts say the breed, which makes a good pet, is often confused with the husky and the Alaskan malamute.

The Canadian Eskimo dog boasts a thick, water-resistant coat and is one of three remaining breeds indigenous to Canada.

The other two are the Newfoundland and the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever.

Canada has already lost one indigenous breed: the Tahltan bear dog disappeared in 1974.