Dog mushing is one of Alaska’s oldest and most special traditions. For hundreds of years, strong sled dogs helped people live in the far north. Before snow machines and cars, these dogs were the only way to travel over deep snow and ice. Today, mushing is still alive in Alaska — as a sport, a job, and an adventure for visitors.
How Sled Dogs Became Alaska’s Helpers
Long ago, Alaska’s Native people trained dogs to pull sleds. These sled dogs carried heavy loads like food and firewood. They helped families move to new hunting spots and trade goods with other villages. Sled dogs were strong, smart, and brave. Without them, people could not live well in cold places where snow covers the ground for months.
When gold miners came to Alaska in the late 1800s, they needed sled dogs too. The miners needed supplies, food, and mail. Sled dogs could travel where horses and wagons could not go. Because of this, dog teams became a lifeline for people living far from towns and roads.
What Does Mushing Mean?
Mushing means driving a sled pulled by dogs. The person driving is called a musher. A musher stands on the sled’s runners and tells the dogs what to do. They use short words like:
- “Hike!” (Go)
- “Whoa!” (Stop)
- “Gee!” (Turn right)
- “Haw!” (Turn left)
Each dog has a special job. The lead dog runs in front and listens to commands. Swing dogs help turn corners. Team dogs run in the middle for power. Wheel dogs run closest to the sled. They help steer the sled around tight turns.
The rope that connects all the dogs is called the gangline. Dogs wear harnesses that spread the pull across their chest, so they can run fast and safely.
A True Hero Story: The Great Serum Run
One of the most famous mushing stories is the Serum Run of 1925. In January of that year, a sickness called diphtheria spread in Nome. The town needed medicine fast. But planes could not fly because of deep snow and freezing wind. So, mushers and over 150 sled dogs carried the medicine across 674 miles of frozen wilderness.
Each musher drove their dog team for part of the way, like runners in a relay race. Balto and his musher, Gunnar Kaasen, led the final team. They made it to Nome in a blizzard and saved many lives. Another brave dog, Togo, ran the longest and hardest part of the journey — over 260 miles in ice storms and strong winds.
Today, there is a statue of Balto in New York’s Central Park. Togo’s story is now famous too. Both dogs remind us how sled dogs and mushers worked as a team to save a town.
How Mushing Changed Over Time
As Alaska grew, roads, snow machines, and airplanes became common. People did not need sled dogs for mail and supplies anymore. But they still loved the bond between mushers and dogs. Many people turned mushing into a sport.
In 1973, the first Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race was held. This race honors the old trails and brave mushers from Alaska’s past. The Iditarod is one of the longest sled dog races in the world. Mushers and dogs travel over 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome. They cross frozen rivers, tall mountains, and deep forests.
There are other big races too, like the Yukon Quest, which runs between Alaska and Canada. These races show how strong and smart sled dogs are — and how much mushers care for them.
Why Mushing Matters Today
Today, mushing is still a big part of Alaska’s culture. Many families keep sled dog kennels and raise puppies to be future lead dogs. Some mushers still use dogs for daily chores in places where snow blocks roads in winter. Schools and youth groups teach kids to mush so the tradition stays alive for the next generation.
Visitors from around the world come to Alaska to see sled dogs in action. They can ride behind a team through snowy woods, meet friendly huskies, and learn how mushers train their dogs.
Learning Mushing Skills
Being a musher is not easy. Mushers learn how to read weather, pack gear, and keep dogs safe in deep cold. They must know how to fix broken sleds, cook warm food for dogs, and find trails under fresh snow.
Good mushers spend hours each day brushing fur, trimming nails, and checking paws for cuts. They feed dogs special food high in fat and meat to keep them strong. Many mushers say caring for the dogs is just as important as racing.
Where You Can See Mushing in Alaska
Many places in Alaska welcome visitors to watch dog sledding. Some top spots include:
- Anchorage: Good for short rides and mushing demos.
- Fairbanks: Offers longer tours under the northern lights.
- Denali National Park: Home to Alaska’s only national park sled dog kennel.
- Nome: See the Iditarod finish line and meet real racers.
Before you plan your adventure, check National Park Service – Alaska for visitor tips.
Keeping Dogs Safe and Happy
Mushers love their dogs like family. Good mushers always put their dogs first. Dogs wear booties (tiny shoes) to protect their feet from ice and sharp sticks. They rest often, drink warm broth, and sleep in warm straw beds.
Vets check each dog before, during, and after races. This means only healthy, happy dogs run on the trail. If a dog is tired or sick, the musher stops to care for them or lets them ride in the sled.
Where Mushing Is Going
Mushing may be old, but it still matters today. It teaches people about teamwork and trust. It brings visitors to Alaska to see wild places in a quiet, special way — with no loud engines, only the soft sound of sled runners and dog paws on snow.
Dog mushing keeps Alaska’s history alive. Kids learn about brave mushers like Leonhard Seppala and amazing dogs like Balto and Togo. Families visit kennels, take short rides, and dream of snowy adventures.
Dog Breeds Made for Mushing
Not all dogs can run hundreds of miles in the snow. Sled dogs must be tough, smart, and love to run in the cold. Let’s look at some of the most common sled dog breeds:
1. Alaskan Husky
This is the most popular sled dog. An Alaskan Husky is not a pure breed but a mix of smart, strong dogs. They have thick fur and lots of energy. They love working in teams and can run fast for many hours.
2. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies have blue eyes and wolf-like faces. They were first bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia. These dogs have thick coats and strong paws. They are smaller than Alaskan Huskies but good at pulling light sleds over long trails.
3. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are bigger and stronger than Huskies. They were bred to haul heavy loads, not race. They are great for pulling gear or helping in small villages.
When you visit a kennel, you might meet all three types. Each dog has a job. Together, they make a team that works like a family.
Training Sled Dogs from Puppies
Sled dogs are not born ready to pull a sled. They learn step by step, just like kids learn to ride bikes.
Puppy Time:
When puppies are small, they play outside in the snow. They chase older dogs and learn to listen to basic commands.
First Harness:
When they grow bigger, mushers put a light harness on them. Puppies pull small sleds or carts. This helps them build muscles and learn to love running.
Joining the Team:
Next, young dogs join older dogs on short trails. They copy the lead dogs and learn when to stop, turn, or run faster.
Getting Ready for Races:
Older dogs teach younger ones how to stay calm in storms and trust their musher. Good mushers give lots of praise and treats to help dogs feel happy and safe.
.Want to see how we care for our dogs? Meet our sled dog team here
A Day in the Life of a Sled Dog
Many people ask: What do sled dogs do all day?
A sled dog’s life is full of fun, rest, and work.
Morning:
Dogs eat a big breakfast with lots of meat and fat. This gives them the energy to run in the cold. The musher checks each dog’s paws, fur, and teeth to make sure they are healthy.
Training Time:
Dogs train almost every day. In winter, they pull sleds. In summer, they may pull carts with wheels. This keeps them strong all year.
Rest and Play:
When they are not running, sled dogs love to play. They dig in the snow, roll around, and nap in cozy straw houses.
Dinner:
After training, dogs eat a second big meal. They may get fish, chicken, or beef mixed with warm broth. This keeps them warm and strong.
How Mushers Take Care of Their Dogs
Good mushers know their dogs are the real stars. Caring for dogs is the biggest part of mushing.
Booties:
Dogs wear small booties to protect paws from ice and cuts. Mushers check paws often to see if there are any cracks or sore spots.
Warm Beds:
Each dog has a small house filled with straw. This keeps them warm on cold nights.
Vet Visits:
Race vets check every dog before, during, and after big races like the Iditarod. Sick or tired dogs rest instead of running.
Training and Love:
Dogs train in all kinds of weather. Mushers brush their fur, trim nails, and give belly rubs every day. Dogs trust their mushers and feel safe.
Racing Traditions and Big Events
Races keep the spirit of old dog teams alive. They also show how mushers and dogs work together as one.
The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race:
This is Alaska’s biggest sled dog race. Every March, mushers and their dogs race over 1,000 miles. They face strong winds, deep snow, and freezing cold. The trail goes from Anchorage to Nome, just like the old mail routes.
The Yukon Quest:
This race runs between Fairbanks, Alaska, and Whitehorse, Canada. It is known for its tough trail and wild weather. Mushers camp with their dogs for days in the wilderness.
Junior Races:
Kids can race too! The Junior Iditarod is for mushers ages 14–17. This helps keep mushing alive for the next generation.
Try Mushing Yourself
You do not need to be a pro to try mushing. Many visitors come to Alaska each winter to ride behind a real dog team.
What to Expect:
You will sit on a sled pulled by strong huskies. Guides help you stay warm and safe. Some tours let you stand on the sled and help steer. It feels amazing to hear only dog paws and the sled sliding on snow.
Where to Go:
Good spots for beginner rides are:
- Anchorage: Short rides near town.
- Fairbanks: Try night tours under the northern lights.
- Denali: Meet park rangers and their working sled dogs.
Want to steer your own sled? Drive a Dog Sled in Alaska and learn hands-on with real mushers.
What to Wear on a Sled Dog Tour
Alaska winters can be very cold. Wearing the right clothes keeps you warm and safe.
Wear Layers:
Dress in three parts:
- Base layer: Thermal top and pants.
- Middle layer: Fleece or wool sweater.
- Outer layer: Waterproof coat and snow pants.
Feet and Hands:
Wear warm, waterproof boots. Wool socks keep feet dry. Wear mittens instead of gloves to keep fingers warmer.
Head and Face:
Cover your head and ears with a warm hat. A scarf or face mask keeps cheeks warm.
Extra Tips:
Need help packing? Use our Sledding Gear Checklist to stay warm and trail-ready.
Respecting Nature and Sled Dogs
When you visit, remember sled dogs are working animals. Always ask before petting a dog. Never feed them without the musher’s okay. Stay quiet around the dogs so they can rest when needed.
Good mushers also follow Leave No Trace rules. They pack out all trash, stay on trails, and protect wild animals and plants. This keeps Alaska’s backcountry beautiful for everyone.
Famous Mushers and Legendary Dogs
Dog mushing has many heroes — both human and dog. Let’s look at a few names that still inspire mushers today.
Leonhard Seppala:
Leonhard Seppala was one of Alaska’s greatest mushers. He led the longest leg in the 1925 Serum Run with his lead dog, Togo. Seppala and Togo crossed dangerous ice and blizzards to deliver medicine when no one else could.
Balto:
While Togo ran the hardest part, Balto led the final team into Nome. Balto’s team faced a blinding storm at night. Thanks to Balto’s bravery, the medicine arrived on time and many lives were saved. Today, Balto has a statue in New York City. This reminds people of the courage sled dogs show.
Susan Butcher:
Susan Butcher was a famous Iditarod champion. She won the race four times. Susan helped make mushing popular again and showed how to care for sled dogs with love and respect. Many young mushers look up to her today.
If you want to learn how modern mushers keep this tradition alive, read about our racing experiences.
How Kids Can Get Involved
Mushing is not just for adults. Many kids and teens learn to mush in Alaska. Some families keep a few sled dogs at home. Kids help feed, brush, and train the dogs. They learn how to give commands and care for paws and harnesses.
The Junior Iditarod is a real race just for young mushers. Teens ages 14–17 train all year for this event. They camp with their dogs in the snow and follow old mushing trails. This helps teach the next generation about Alaska’s mushing history.
Mushing in Summer: Dryland Tours
Did you know dog mushing is not just for snow? Many kennels offer dryland tours when the snow melts. In summer, sled dogs pull wheeled carts on forest trails. This keeps them strong and happy.
Visitors can ride in a cart and see how dogs train in warm weather. Many mushers also show how to feed the dogs and brush their thick fur in summer.
Fun Facts About Sled Dogs
Here are some quick facts to share with family or friends:
- Sled dogs can run over 100 miles in one day.
- They have double fur coats to stay warm in deep snow.
- Good lead dogs are smart, brave, and love to lead the pack.
- Many sled dogs work until they are 8–10 years old, then retire and live as family pets.
- Mushers know each dog by name and personality.
How Mushing Helps Local Communities
In some remote Alaska villages, sled dogs are still a big help. In deep winter, roads can close for weeks. Snow machines sometimes break down in storms. Sled dogs can keep moving even when machines cannot.
Mushers carry food, firewood, and medicine to families. They help elders reach clinics and deliver mail. This tradition keeps small communities connected during long winters.
Mushing also brings jobs. Many mushers work as tour guides. They teach visitors about Alaska’s wild places and share old stories from the trail. Visitors spend money at local shops, lodges, and kennels. This helps families make a living while keeping mushing traditions strong.
Planning Your Own Sled Dog Adventure
If you dream of trying dog mushing, Alaska is the best place. Here’s how to plan a safe, fun trip:
Pick the Right Tour:
Choose a tour company that cares for its dogs. Good kennels are clean, safe, and happy places. Mushers should answer your questions and show you how the dogs live.
Dress for the Weather:
Always wear warm layers. Alaska’s winter can drop to -40°F. Bring thermal clothes, a good coat, warm boots, and mittens. For a full list, see our sledding gear checklist.
Listen to Your Guide:
Your guide knows the trail and weather. They will teach you how to sit safely, stand up, or help steer the sled. Always follow their directions.
Respect the Dogs:
Never shout at or scare the dogs. Always ask before petting. Do not feed them snacks. Let the dogs rest when they need to.
Bringing the Story Home
When you leave Alaska, you take the mushing story with you. Many visitors read books about famous sled dogs. Some donate to groups that care for retired sled dogs or teach kids how to mush.
You can also share your adventure with friends and family. Show your photos, tell stories about the dogs, and explain how mushers and dogs trust each other. This keeps the old ways alive for new generations.
Want to help these dogs thrive year-round? Support the Kennel and be part of their care
Why Mushing Still Matters
Dog mushing is more than a sport. It is a piece of Alaska’s heart. It teaches people how to live with nature, not against it. It shows how trust, teamwork, and courage can help people and animals survive even the coldest nights.
When you visit, you help keep this story alive. You support mushers, dogs, and small villages. You learn about the strong bond between humans and dogs — one step, one sled ride, and one snowy trail at a time.