When you think of sled dogs, do you imagine Huskies pulling a sled through snow-covered, bitterly cold landscapes? Yet even in the United States, sled dogs were known until the 1960s as “the poor man’s horse.” Strong working dogs transported carts loaded with goods and equipment, pulling a sales cart from door to door.

In snowy regions, carts on wheels were converted into sleds on runners. However, modern sled dog sports, as practiced today, have their origins in the fast-paced sled rides that mushers (the professional sled drivers in the far north) organized as early as the 1960s.

Are there ideal dog breeds for sled dog sports?

For many, Nordic breeds, especially Siberian Huskies and Malamutes, are the ideal sled dogs. Bred for centuries to pull sleds, they possess all the qualities necessary for professional sledding or cart pulling: agility, lightness, endurance, undemanding nature, tough paws, affection for humans, and above all, boundless enthusiasm for running and pulling.

But modern sled dog sports, which are not conducted on snow, can generally be practiced by all healthy, physically fit, and energetic dogs. Breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback, Doberman, Labrador Retriever, Beagle, and any slightly larger mixed breeds make excellent sled dogs.

The most important prerequisites for sled dog sports

The health and your dog’s enjoyment of running are the most important prerequisites for this sport. A veterinary examination of the prospective sled dog is essential before starting. The veterinarian checks the dog’s cardiovascular system and overall organ condition. Only when the results confirm a healthy, resilient dog can training begin.

Prerequisites for Sled Dog Sports:

Facts about sled dogs and pulling vehicles

Dogs with potential as sled dogs primarily have one thing: they love to pull and run for their lives. In technical terms, this is known as “desire to go,” which means “desire to pull/run.” Experts estimate that every adult, healthy dog can pull approximately four times its body weight. However, this does not determine how long or how willingly a dog can pull this additional weight.

Useful Information:

What you should know about harnessing methods

There are essentially only two types of harnessing methods that you should know about in sled dog sports: line harnessing and pulka harnessing, which can have some modifications. The choice of harnessing depends on the type of dog pulling sport you want to engage in with your dog or dogs.

The simple line harnessing is primarily used in:

In all three variants, the dog is directly connected to the sports vehicle or jogger by a towline with a shock absorber. A special guiding rod (antenna) mounted on the bicycle/scooter prevents the towline from tangling.

In pulka harnessing, the dog is attached to a central or two outer fixed guiding rods, known as single-tree, using a specialized harness. The central double tree is used for carts that several dogs can pull. A pulka harness with a towing bar above the dog is common in Sacco carts or trike teams.

The most important sled dog sports commands

Commands are crucial in sled dog sports. Knowledge and unconditional obedience to the commands given by the musher, the sled dog driver, protect him, his dogs, and possible passersby from dangerous accidents. While you can still brake one dog if necessary, this maneuver is hardly manageable with two powerful sled dogs.

The most important commands include:

Interview with an Expert

Who hasn’t seen the image of Huskies eagerly pulling a sled? But not only Nordic dogs can engage in sled dog sports, but also any slightly larger, healthy dog. Expert Annick Busl explains in the interview how the sport works.

What is Sled Dog Sports?

Sled dog sports is an umbrella term encompassing various activities rooted in carting or sled dog sports. The number of dogs and their breed are irrelevant; what matters is the dog’s drive and willingness to work. There are different types of pulling activities: Canicross involves the dog pulling the human while jogging. In Bikejoring, the dog pulls the human on a bicycle. Dogscootering entails the dog running in front of a scooter. Dogtrekking/Doghiking involves the dog pulling the human during hiking. In the discipline of dog carting, the dog is harnessed to a cart or wagon. Specifically for winter, Skijoring involves the dog pulling the human on cross-country skis, while traditional sled dog sports entail the dog pulling a sled.

How has sled dog sports evolved to this day?

Today, there are versatile options and variations for active leisure activities with dogs involving pulling work. A wide range of modern equipment, such as dogscooters, some of which have been specifically developed for sled dog sports, has made this canine sport popular and attractive. Canicross and Bikejoring are gaining more and more followers, ranging from recreational athletes to competitive sports enthusiasts. The best sled dog sport for each team must be decided individually, as it depends on many factors. Sled dog sports are not a new invention; dogs are the oldest draft and pack animals of humans.

How does the dog learn this sport?

Training a sled dog is as diverse as dogs and people are. Almost any dog can learn it. The human must show trust and empathy toward their dog and be ready for teamwork. Regardless of the breed, size, or temperament, suitable equipment and harnessing can be found for every dog. Regardless of the specific sled dog sport one wants to pursue, the most important aspect is introductory training with an experienced sled dog trainer at one of the many sled dog schools or clubs. This is about the dog’s health, which is paramount. Furthermore, one must consider which sled dog sport suits the team; the dog’s weight and pulling power also play an important role.

What does sled dog sports look like in winter?

In winter, the dog pulls its owner, for example, on a sled. This requires some practice, as braking and steering, in particular, must be mastered. Another winter pulling variation is skijoring, where high speeds can be achieved, and one must be stable on the skis. However, finding the right training location is often a challenge, as not all areas permit sledding. Nevertheless, there are already specific trails where dogs are allowed.

What should one consider when engaging in the sport in winter?

Pay attention to the ground conditions. The dogs’ paws can be heavily stressed in snow and ice. Additionally, the cold temperatures should not be underestimated. Snow training is much more demanding, and dogs should already have good pulling condition when transitioning to winter training.

What are the positive effects of sled dog sports on the dog?

Sled dog sports provide excellent exercise for many active and hunting-minded dogs. It greatly enhances the bond between human and dog, promotes teamwork, and allows for shared experiences in nature. Even large breeds can benefit greatly from sled dog sports, such as dog carting or wagon pulling. Dogs become more balanced and content, gain more confidence, and subsequently become more self-assured. Sled dog sports provide an ideal outlet for both the body and mind of the dog.

Thank you for the interview, Ms. Annick Busl.