Long before dog sleds were used for recreation and sport, dog sled teams helped people with transportation, hunting, and exploration in regions with heavy snow and ice. Dog sled teams have been used for centuries to transport goods and people through harsh winter conditions.
The Origins of Dog Sledding
Thought to be founded by the Inuit people, the oldest archeological proof of dog sledding as a mode of transportation is around 1,000 A.D. Early dog sleds usually consisted of one dog pulling some cargo. Dog teams were smaller than today’s standards, usually consisting of 2-6 dogs per sled. Dog sledding serves to preserve and celebrate cultural traditions in some indigenous communities, not only in Canada but in northern hemispheres around the world.
Dog Sledding in Exploration
The use of dog sleds spread from indigenous people to colonials in Europe and other regions. Sled dogs were essential for northern polar expeditions. An example of this is the movie Against the Ice which depicts Danish lore from the golden age of Arctic exploration. The movie tells the story of the men who searched for proof of a previous expedition to what is now known as Greenland, therefore debunking American claims.
Famous Sled Dogs in History
In 1925, musher Leonhard Seppala and his dog sled team transported a life saving vaccine to help with a deadly outbreak of diphtheria that threatened the lives of the 10,000 people in the port of Nome, a remote location in northern Alaska. Have you watched the Disney+ movie, Togo? Our incredible husky heroes starred in the movie! Almost all the dogs in the movie are ours, including the star dog’s stunt double. Snowy Owl owner and operator, Jereme Arsenault worked with the production team to help with many aspects of the production. Learn more in our Behind the Scenes Disney+ Togo blog.
Sled Dog Heroes Saving Lives
In Alaska, many small villages are only accessible by plane or boat during the summer months. However, when winter arrives and the rivers freeze over, dog sled teams become the primary mode of transportation. This is where the dog sled teams come in. They can traverse long distances in harsh conditions, reaching remote areas that may be difficult or impossible to reach by other means. During the COVID-19 pandemic, dog sled teams were utilized to deliver vaccines to remote areas in Alaska. These incredible dogs provided an effective solution to the need for speedy and efficient vaccine distribution to remote northern communities.
Dog Sledding as Sport
Dog sledding emerged as a competitive sport in the mid-1800s. The first formal race took place in Nome, Alaska. In fact, this is the same route Leonhard Seppala, used to deliver the vaccine. The most famous dog sled race in the world is the Iditarod which started in 1967. In 1973 the race was designed to be longer and more intense. The route went from Anchorage to Nome and the first winner took three weeks to complete the entire journey.
Modern Day Dog Sledding
It’s important to preserve this historic form of transportation and sport. Dog sleds continue to be used as a form of transportation and used in hunting in remote northern areas. Dog sledding is a popular recreational activity in almost every province in Canada. The Canadian Rockies of Canmore and Banff offer some of the most spectacular scenery!
Ready to book your winter dog sled tour? View our four different tours.