Abby, the Chinook dog, showed she didn’t care much for Senate hearings by letting out a quiet whimper during a hearing on a bill to name her breed as the state dog.

But the senators on the committee didn’t hold it against her and voted unanimously to recommend passage of Senate Bill 13 after hearing compelling testimony from a group of seventh- graders from Bedford on Tuesday, Feb. 3.

“The Chinook represents courage, endurance and strength and perfectly defines our state,” said Thao Traun, 12, of Ross A. Lurgio Middle School.

Thao was one of four students, accompanied by their teacher Jennifer Wells, to testify at a hearing before the Senate Executive Departments and Administration Committee. The Chinook dog was bred in New Hampshire and unlike other state symbols, reflects a unique aspect of New Hampshire’s history, Emma Benson, 13, argued.

The seventh-graders worked with Sen. Sheila Roberge (R-Bedford), who agreed to sponsor the bill.

“I am proud to represent these young people, who have nominated the Chinook as the state dog. This is an opportunity to learn about the legislative process. And if this passes, the new law will be a source of pride and show our young people that they can make a difference,” Roberge said.

“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. A cross between a husky and a farm dog, 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.

Abnaki, nicknamed “Abby” came to the Senate hearing to represent the Chinook. She is one of only 33 Chinook dogs registered in New Hampshire and one of about 800 Chinook dogs nationwide.

“I think it’s great that our school children are getting so involved in our history,” said Sen. Sharon Carson (R-Londonderry). “I was won over the minute I saw those big brown eyes,” Sen. Betsi DeVries (D-Manchester), said with a nod to Abby.