CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – The Chinook – a cross between a husky and a farm dog – soon could be New Hampshire’s official state dog.

The Senate approved the designation Wednesday. The House votes on it next.

A group of seventh-graders from Bedford are behind the move. The students say the Chinook was bred in New Hampshire and unlike other state symbols, reflects a unique aspect of the state’s history.

“Chinook” was the name of one of the dogs bred by Arthur Walden in Tamworth as he sought to develop a good sled dog and family pet. Chinook’s gentle disposition and success as a racing sled dog led to much acclaim and media attention in the 1920s. His name came to identify the new breed.

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