8 Sled Dog Breeds and Their Fascinating History
Sled dog breeds have been around for thousands of years! While their roles have changed over the millenniums, many communities in the Arctic Circle continue to rely on these powerful, thick-coated animals for a variety of transportation tasks.
The valor of pulling sleds over vast distances also continues through the dozens of long-distance racing events in the U.S. each year. The most famous of these events—the Iditarod—challenges teams of dogs and their handlers to travel about 1,000 miles across the Alaskan tundra every year!
From the fastest speedsters to the strongest haulers, we’ve rounded up the most intriguing types of sled dogs and their unique histories.
#1: Siberian Husky
They’re alert, they’re strong, and they’re one of the most recognizable sled dogs in the world. Siberian Huskies were first bred by the Chukchi people of northeastern Asia several thousand years ago, who treasured the breed’s ability to haul loads over long stretches of frozen tundra. In more recent history, Siberian Huskies were hailed as heroes in 1925 when teams of them traveled more than 600 miles to deliver life-saving serum to Nome, Alaska during a diphtheria epidemic, according to Britannica.
Although not as large as some other dogs on this list, Siberian Huskies have tremendous endurance and work exceptionally well in teams. Their cooperative nature makes them great family dogs, and they’re especially good with children.
#2: Samoyed
Another fluffy sled dog breed from Siberia, Samoyeds sport an all-white double coat that helps keep them warm in the harsh Arctic conditions. Their roles have included everything from herding reindeer and hunting bears to warming their human partners and transporting supplies. In 1911, a team of Samoyeds even accompanied Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen and his team on the first-ever expedition to the South Pole, according to Dogster.
Sammies are as mischievous as they are graceful, so it’s important to start training early and often. They have a happy-go-lucky attitude with a perpetual smile to match. By the way, that little grin serves a practical purpose in cold weather: it keeps their drool from freezing into icicles on their face!
#3: Norwegian Elkhound
These big-chested furry friends have been braving the Scandinavian climate since as early as 5,000 B.C. In addition to pulling sleds, Norwegian Elkhounds have been employed for hunting bears, wolves, moose, and even elks throughout the ages. They are so important to Scandinavian culture and history that they’ve appeared in Norse art and sailed with the Vikings, according to Rover.
Norwegian Elkhounds may look intimidating, but they’re quite shy around strangers and become friendlier once they get to know you. Their pointed snout and ears make these dogs look like foxes, and they have an alert, agile nature.
#4: Yakutian Laika
Developed in northeastern Russia, the Yakutian Laika has long been a faithful and functional companion. Like many dogs on this list, they have a rich history of herding, hunting, and moving supplies. They have been employed to pull sleds in teams throughout history, making them happy to work and communicate with other furry friends.
Yakutian Laikas are cherished in Russia, but they are seldom found in the United States. If you’re lucky enough to come across one, their striking white coat is sure to catch your eye. They’re affectionate with their family members, although they do have a strong prey drive and should be supervised around smaller pets.
🐕 Related: Sprints, Distance, and Trails: The Best Dogs for Runners
#5: Alaskan Malamute
The mighty Alaskan Malamute is a champion of cold-weather endurance. Rather than zipping through the snow at top speed, these “freighters” are built to pull heavy loads over long distances.
Despite their North American name, Malamutes are thought to have traveled from Siberia to Alaska across the Bering Strait thousands of years ago, according to the American Kennel Club. These dogs have since developed a strong cultural association with the Inuit people, who value their affectionate nature and sled-pulling abilities.
Mals are inherently hard workers who take their duties seriously, so they tend to be on the stubborn side. If you don’t train your Mal from the get-go, they might see themselves as the pack leader and ignore your commands. Tasty dog treats are key to training these headstrong pups!
#6: Chinook
If you’ve never heard of the Chinook before (pronounced sha-nook), you’re not alone. This rare dog breed almost became extinct in the late 20th century, although extensive breeding efforts have since helped them increase their population.
The Chinook’s history began with an explorer named Arthur Walden, who founded the breed in New Hampshire in 1917 and wanted to develop a dog with speed, power, endurance, and a good temperament. They can haul hefty loads through the snow and are accomplished sled racers, making them one of the most versatile types of sled dogs.
Despite their small population, Chinooks are the official state dog of New Hampshire—the only breed to have originated there, according to nh.gov. They get along well with children and other dogs, and they’re happy to obey commands. Their great physical and social abilities also make them strong candidates for search-and-rescue work!
#7: Bernese Mountain Dog
The term “gentle giant” is embodied by the imposing-yet-loving Bernese Mountain Dog. These natives of the Swiss Alps are distinguished farm workers with expertise in droving cattle, guarding livestock, and working as draft dogs (canines who pull sleds and carts). Since the 20th century, Berners have been widely adored as household companions and continue to thrive when given work.
Berners may be adapted to the cold, but they enjoy getting plenty of exercise in any weather! They make excellent hiking dogs and will accompany their pet parents just about anywhere. They experience heavy shedding year-round though and need daily brushing to look and feel their best.
#8: Greenland Dog
It’d be a challenge to find a Greenland Dog outside its namesake island, as frigid conditions and isolation have kept them mostly apart from the rest of the world. With centuries of experience working alongside Greenland natives, they are fast sled dogs with great hunting prowess. These dogs are so brave and muscular, they are reported to have provided protection from polar bears, according to Newsweek!
Greenland dogs need a lot of exercise to stay physically and mentally fit, requiring up to two hours per day. They do best in rural homes with plenty of space to roam, and their independent minds should receive training from a young age.
Dashing Through the Snow
Many sled dogs have one thing in common: they love a snow day. If you have one of these furry friends and you live in an area that gets below freezing, don’t shy away from playing with them in the snow. They’ll appreciate the opportunity to get in touch with their ancestral roots!
No matter what kind of Cadet you have, all dogs need exercise. Explore these ways to get active together:
