Do you like sled dogs? They are fascinating and precious animals! We're used to seeing them in movies, but what are these dogs really like? If you want to find out more about them, read on! We have a lot to tell you about these mind-blowing dogs.
What sled dogs look like?
Sled dogs are strong and resistant, able to withstand really low temperatures and direct contact with rain and snow. These dogs of Nordic origin were already trained thousands of years ago to support and transport both people and goods, which was especially useful for connecting small isolated mountain villages with larger urban centers. In cold countries, the management of human life would have been impossible without the invaluable help of these four-legged heroes.
The origin of sled dogs is found in The Nordic and Polar Wolves, although later these ancestors crossed with different dogs, which resulted in lots of different breeds that we have present today.
Dog sledding is believed to be one of the oldest modes of transport in the world, the pioneers were the Eskimos as early as 1000 BC.
Sled dogs have literally saved people's lives on various occasions. In the 1920s there was a horrible outbreak of diphtheria in Alaska and only dogs were able to transport the drugs where it was needed. Other means of transport already existed, but they were not useful at all for that mission.
Today, some Nordic and polar tribes continue to use sled dogs as their main transport. However, there is also mushing, a sport in which dog sledding becomes a mode of exercise and leisure.
Sled dog breeds
According to the FCI, the ones that are officially considered sled dog breeds are:
Siberian husky: originating in Siberia, they are loving, faithful, curious dogs and have great physical endurance. For both mushing and pet life, huskies are truly popular dogs all over the world.
Samoyed: this Russian dog is an excellent working dog, besides being sweet, beautiful and very sociable. Although they are stubborn and difficult to train, they can become excellent sled dogs.
Greenland dog: it is believed that this breed still bears much similarity with its ancestors wolves; indeed, instead of barking, howls. It is really resistant, strong and able to withstand low temperatures. It is a stubborn and independent dog.
Alaskan malamute: very similar to husky in appearance, although larger, Alaskan malamute is perhaps the oldest sled dog and the most popular for its great abilities.
Although these are the breeds recognized as official for sledding, there are other dogs of similar characteristics that are also used. Moreover, these dogs are excellent life partners.
Do you have any of these dogs and would you like to mush with him? Check out our tips!