Choosing a dog for pulling
Choosing a dog for pulling is usually between the traditional sled dogs. They are the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Samoyed and Eskimo dog. Alaskan Huskies is a cross between these dogs and these days they are even crossed with some Euro hounds and pointers. What Alaskan people have perfected over the years since mushing first started as a means of transport of people and food supplies, is a dog with high drive. Meaning they are focused on what they want to "achieve" at that moment. They also bred the Alaskan Husky to have boundless energy and endurance. This could go as far that a Husky would go much further and faster then he is suppose to as they don't easily give up. For this reason the driver/musher must be aware of his team and in what mental and physical state they are. This is where bonding with a Husky is just as crucial so that the musher is able to know the dog’s limits. Alaskan Huskies are not bred for their looks, but bred purely to be a sled dog. What is a sled dog? Well it's not just Huskies; it's any dog that pulls a sled or other rig. This can be your pet dog too, from Labradors, Collies, Pointers, German Shepherds and St. Bernard’s. Most working dogs will be suitable...As long as he has heart. Heart to want to run and pull. A bigger dog can pull a bigger load most of the time, this is usually double the dogs own weight. But smaller dogs most of the time make great sprint dogs. Top racing dogs require all these things that I mentioned and a deep chest, long legs and an over all well built body. Looks really has got nothing to do with it, in fact breeding a Husky based upon his looks can leave serious lack on other criteria, for instance health, speed and endurance. Lance Mackey, Iditarod and Yukon quest winner; breeds his dogs to have an intense energy. Not something most people want in an average pet dog. So how do you then have a Husky as a pet dog, well you have to be able to provide him with much needed stimulation and bond with your husky. This can take months... a big yard is not the answer. It's what you do with your husky in the yard and out side of the yard that makes the difference. You need to be active to be able to have a sled dog. But remember any dog, whether it's your pet dog or a Husky will be a better sled dog if he is not free to roam all day as he pleases. If mushing is his form of exercise then he will be more likely to want to mush. I am not saying that your dog must be lying alone in the back yard, just the opposite... You need to use the rest of the time, for training cues and bonding with your dog. Being consistent in training cues is the key to having a great sled dog.
|
