Image by Travis S. via FlickrKnown by several other names, including sleigh dogs, sleddogs, or sledge dogs, sled dogs are used to describe a group of dogs that pull a sled (a wheel-less vehicle on runners) over ice or snow by harnesses or lines. This unique mode of transport is said to originate in Siberia where tribes are long known for their nomadic winter travel.

Sled dogs are highly varied, encompassing several breeds. However, there are certain distinct breeds of dogs that have traditionally been used as sled dogs. Some well-known examples of sled dogs are the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute and the Mackenzie River Husky, all three of which share the same long-haired, hardy characteristic that enables them to survive in the harshest weather.

But sled dogs may include other breeds and even crossbreds. In the days of the Gold Rush, for example, many gold mining opportunists traveled across the Yukon Territory via sled dogs pulled by mongrel teams, teams of Foxhounds, and even Staghounds. Today, the preferred breed used as sled dogs are the hybridized Alaskan Husky and other crossbreds from the German Shorthaired Pointer. At least once in dogsled racing, a team of Standard Poodles were used.

Qualities

All sled dogs, no matter the breed, are known for qualities which are their major distinguishing characteristics as sled dogs. They ought to have a high level of endurance, sufficient to allow them to travel long distances. As sled dogs, this is expected of them. In fact, a typical sled dog should have no trouble covering five to eighty miles of dogsled travel.

The other important quality is speed. Sled dogs should be able to cover distances within a reasonable length of time and as such, speed becomes an important factor. Most sled dogs today are used in sled dog racing. The average racing sled dog should be able to travel up to an average of twenty miles per hour over distances of approximately 25 miles or more.

Strength

While sled dogs are expected to have endurance and speed, strength is also a valued quality. These dogs pull various sorts of sleds, ranging from 25-pound sleds to larger toboggan sleds. Sled dogs may also be used to pull skiers or draw wheeled rigs when there is no snow. So strength is definitely a major quality.

As Pets

Sled dogs are working dogs so you seldom see them as mere family companions. However, most breeds under this category are friendly with even temperaments. They are active and athletic, characteristic of their breed as working dogs, but they are quiet when indoors. With proper training, they can be good pets with energetic dispositions. But as working dogs, they need daily exercise to keep them healthy and active.