Fun Facts About Sled Dogs

Have you ever been watching a movie and seen dogs pulling a sled? Or maybe you’ve always been curious about dog sledding and what to learn more.

Well, you’re in luck! Here are some fun facts about sled dogs.

Sled Dog Fun Facts

Sled dogs have been used for over 2,000 years!

Before the invention of things like cars and airplanes, sled dogs were one of the most important forms of transportation for getting around in the Arctic. These sleds hauled people and supplies to areas that were unreachable by other modes of transportation.

They still deliver mail!

In areas like Alaska, Yukon, and Greenland, you may still see sled dogs out delivering mail in rural communities.

They compete in Sled Dog races!

The most common place you’ll see sled dogs these days is during sled dog races. These races take place all over the world from Wisconsin to Norway, where these dogs can pull a sled for 1,000 kilometers (over 620 miles!).

Sled dogs are bred for speed and endurance!

Size used to be the main factor when choosing sled dogs. However, now sled dogs can weigh anywhere from 35 to 70 pounds and the most important factor is their speed and how they balance out a team. Sled dogs need to be perfectly in sync when running so their teamwork is their most important indicator.

They can run up to 28 miles per hour!

Sled dogs have very tough, webbed feet with closely spaced toes. This allows their feet to act like snowshoes so they can get a good grip on the ground.

They use their tails to keep themselves warm!

Sled dogs often have double coats which help keep their bodies warm during those cold winter nights. However, with their faces exposed to the cold, they can use their long tails to wrap around and cover their mouth and nose to keep their faces warm all night.

Sled dogs are amazing athletes that have been serving communities and working hard for centuries!