Have you ever wondered what it takes to train a dog sled team that can race for hundreds of miles in deep snow and freezing winds? Here in Alaska, mushing — that’s what we call driving a sled pulled by dogs — is more than just fun. It’s a skill and a bond between people and dogs.
When you see our sled dogs race, you see more than strong legs and wagging tails. You see trust, practice, and care. This guide will show you how we train our dogs, plan our trails, and keep our team safe. By the end, you’ll know what it really takes to live this adventure — and maybe try it yourself!
Where It All Began
Dog sledding has a long history in Alaska. Long ago, mushers used dog teams to carry food, mail, and medicine across snowy lands. Today, we still race in honor of that past. The most famous race is the Iditarod. It’s called “The Last Great Race” because teams travel about 1,000 miles through ice, wind, and snow.
A Day in the Life of a Musher
Early Starts
Training for racing starts before the sun comes up. Mushers wake up while it’s still dark. The first thing they do is check the weather. Why? Because the weather changes fast in Alaska. One hour it might be sunny, the next a snowstorm can blow in.
Mushers look at the snow, wind, and the cold. This helps them pick the safest trail and decide how long to run. We never want to surprise our dogs with unsafe weather.
Packing for the Run
Once we know where to go, it’s time to pack up. This is a big job! We check every harness to make sure it fits well and does not rub the dogs’ fur the wrong way. We pack booties to protect the dogs’ paws from sharp ice.
We also pack food for the dogs and warm broth to keep them drinking water. Mushers wear many warm layers because staying warm keeps everyone safe.
Use our full Packing List so you don’t forget snacks, bug spray, or bear spray
Building Strong Dogs
Start Small, Grow Strong
Our dogs don’t just wake up ready to run 50 miles. We train step by step. Young dogs start with short runs pulling light sleds. This helps them learn to listen to commands and get used to working together.
As they grow stronger, we make the runs longer and the sleds heavier. This builds muscle and heart power. Over time, they can run for hours at a steady pace without getting too tired.
Here are the three steps of our training:
- Base Runs: Long, steady runs to build endurance.
- Sprints: Short, fast runs for speed.
- Heavy Pulls: Pulling extra weight for strong muscles.
Training on All Kinds of Trails
Alaska’s trails are wild and different every day. One day you run across a flat frozen lake. The next day you might climb snowy hills or cross windy flats. This helps our dogs get ready for any challenge they might find during a race.
Sometimes we train at night. This teaches dogs to stay calm in the dark and listen to commands even when it’s hard to see.
Dogs Have Jobs Too
The Team Roles
A sled dog team works best when everyone knows their job. Every dog has a special spot in the line:
- Lead Dogs: These smart dogs run in front and listen to the musher’s voice. They help steer the team.
- Swing Dogs: These dogs stand behind the lead dogs and help the team turn left or right.
- Team Dogs: These strong dogs run in the middle and give extra pulling power.
- Wheel Dogs: These dogs are closest to the sled. They help steer and keep the sled stable.
Learning New Spots
We switch dogs to different spots during practice. For example, a swing dog might get a try as a lead dog. This builds confidence and makes sure we always have dogs ready for every job. It also keeps the team balanced if one dog gets tired.
Don’t miss our summer adventure — see our Summer Cart Tours and meet our team in person!
Checking Health Every Day
Watching Each Dog
Healthy dogs make a strong team. We check every dog’s feet for cuts, their fur for ice, and their ears for frostbite. We make sure they are eating well and not too tired.
We also use special tools that track their heart rates and how they move. If a dog limps or slows down, we know right away.
Feeding Like Athletes
A racing sled dog burns more than 10,000 calories a day! They need fatty meat, fish, and warm broth. We feed them small meals during the day and extra snacks on the trail.
We also check if they drink enough water. In freezing weather, dogs can get dehydrated fast. Warm broth helps keep them warm and hydrated.
To learn how we care for our dogs every season, read How We Train and Care for Our Sled Dogs.
Real-Life Practice
Training in the Dark
Races don’t stop at sunset. Dogs learn to run at night with headlamps or just the light of the moon. This keeps them calm and focused, even if it’s windy or snowy.
Sleep Outs
We practice camping too. Mushers and dogs rest on the snow in sleeping bags. Dogs wear coats and booties to stay warm. This helps them get used to breaks during races.
It also helps mushers learn how to pack and unpack gear fast, even when it’s dark and cold.
Keeping Equipment Ready
Checking the Sled
A sled must be strong. Before every run, mushers check the runners — the smooth strips under the sled. If these break, the sled can’t slide well.
We also check harnesses, booties, and lines. Cold weather can make plastic and metal break. We carry extra gear in case something snaps on the trail.
Staying Safe
Practice for Problems
Sometimes trails are icy or a moose crosses the path. Mushers train for problems like this. We practice quick stops, turning around, and fixing a broken sled in deep snow.
We also pack maps, compasses, and radios. In Alaska, batteries can freeze fast. A compass never does.
Strong Body, Strong Mind
Dogs need a strong mind too. Long races can make them tired and stressed. We keep them happy with playtime, belly rubs, and rest days.
Mushers also stay strong in their minds. Some run the last days with almost no sleep. Mushers train to stay calm and focused so the dogs feel safe.
What Happens at Checkpoints
Long sled dog races like the Iditarod have checkpoints along the trail. A checkpoint is a safe place where mushers and dogs stop to rest, eat, and check gear.
When we reach a checkpoint, the first job is to take care of the dogs. The musher checks every paw for ice or cuts. Dogs get fresh booties if they need them. We give them warm food and broth so they stay strong.
While the dogs rest, the musher checks the sled for broken parts. Sometimes we need to fix things right there on the snow. Then, the musher grabs a quick meal, tries to nap for an hour or two, and plans the next leg of the race.
How Dogs Sleep on the Trail
You might wonder — where do dogs sleep when the race is in the middle of nowhere? Dogs sleep right on the snow! Mushers carry straw to lay down for each dog. Straw keeps cold snow away from their fur.
Each dog wears a warm coat to help hold in body heat. Mushers often sit near the dogs to watch them sleep and keep an eye out for bad weather or wild animals.
This simple camp setup has helped mushers and dogs cross hundreds of miles for over 100 years!
Training for Darkness and Storms
In Alaska, the sun doesn’t always stay up. In winter, it can be dark for 18 hours each day! This means dogs must be calm and focused in the dark.
We practice nighttime runs with headlamps. Some nights, we even train with no lights to teach the team to trust the musher’s voice.
We also train in storms. This might sound harsh, but it builds strong, brave dogs that won’t panic in the middle of a blizzard.
Why Dogs Love This Work
Many people ask: “Do sled dogs like to run?” The answer is YES! These dogs were born to run. When we hook up the sled, they bark and jump because they can’t wait to pull.
Some dogs get so excited they jump straight up and down or howl at the sky. Their tails wag the whole time. Running is their happy place.
More Gear Tricks
Did you know we pack special dog snacks that stay soft in freezing weather? Meat snacks, fish chunks, and fat balls are easy to feed on the trail.
We also use dog coats that block wind and trap heat but don’t get too wet. When it’s really cold, we wrap dogs’ necks with fleece warmers.
A small thing like a frozen clip or a lost bootie can slow the whole team. That’s why mushers double-check gear over and over.
Don’t miss our tips for Dog Sledding for Kids in Alaska to make every family tour safe and fun.
Who Helps the Mushers?
Mushers don’t do it all alone. Before a big race, family and friends help pack food drops. Some mushers have handlers — helpers who care for the dogs, check gear, and cook food at checkpoints.
Some families have raced for generations. Kids often learn to mush from their parents. That’s why dog mushing is not just a sport — it’s a family story passed down for years.
Stories from the Trail
Many mushers have funny or brave stories. For example, one musher told us how her lead dog found the trail in a whiteout when she could not see anything at all. The dog’s nose and memory kept the whole team moving in the right direction!
Another musher once shared food with a moose! He had to wait an hour while the moose ate twigs near the trail. Mushers learn patience fast.
How We Keep Dogs Happy at Home
Between races, our dogs have comfy homes. Each dog has a warm house with straw to sleep on. We brush them often to check their fur and keep them clean.
We play with the dogs every day. Play builds trust. It’s also fun for us and the dogs! Some dogs love fetch. Some just like belly rubs and naps in the sun.
Respecting Nature
Dog mushing teaches us to respect Alaska’s wild places. We follow Leave No Trace rules — that means we pick up waste, pack out trash, and protect trails. Our goal is to keep the land clean for the next generation.
When you ride with us, you help support this care. Every booking helps us care for the dogs and keep Alaska wild.
Your First Ride
If you dream of standing on a sled behind eager huskies, you can! Many visitors try dog sledding for the first time with us.
We have rides for everyone — short rides for families, longer trips for adventure seekers, and racing sled experiences for those who want to feel like a musher.
If you come in summer when there’s no snow, you can still ride a dog-powered cart. The dogs love to run all year!
What to Bring
People often ask: “What should I wear?” Here are our top tips:
- Dress in warm layers — you can take one off if you get too warm.
- Wear snow boots that are easy to walk in.
- Bring gloves that keep your hands dry.
- Wear a hat that covers your ears.
- Don’t forget sunglasses! Snow can be bright.
Ready to Meet the Dogs?
Our dogs can’t wait to meet you. They love making new friends, posing for photos, and showing off how fast they can run.
Come see why mushers say there’s nothing like the sound of happy dogs pulling through fresh snow. Alaska’s wild beauty, our amazing dogs, and your spirit of adventure make the perfect match. Want a preview? Meet the Dogs before your visit and see their profiles.