It is believed that sled dog breeds (northern, hunting) are direct descendants of the primitive (oldest) dogs of Asia and Europe. It is possible that their origin is associated with wolves. Sled dogs were indispensable helpers and companions of polar explorers. It is believed that without them it would hardly have been possible to make some geographical discoveries in the Arctic. So, for example, the two poles of the Earth were conquered by teams of dogs. It is likely that there were few expeditions in which there were no dogs.
For a day these dogs can walk trot seventy kilometers. They have very strong paws. Exceptional physical endurance and unpretentiousness are the main advantages of harnessed dogs, which have been developed for hundreds of years under heavy physical exertion, on long trips on ice and snow.
How many breeds of sled dogs are known in our time? International reference publications number about 10-15 (this is not counting indigenous rare breeds).
Having briefly described the characteristics of dogs, we now consider their disposition and qualities.
The nature and features of behavior
Breeds of sled dogs combine, it would seem, incompatible qualities. In order for the team work to be good, the dogs need to completely forget about their hunting instincts, while they must, if necessary, protect the owner from predators, and also help him in hunting for seals. The breeds of sled dogs are distinguished by a strong constitution, good physique. In size, these dogs are large and medium.
The nature of the representatives of sled rocks is balanced, calm. They do not show aggression towards a person. These dogs are distinguished by good immunity (disease resistant). They are optimally adapted to feed, as well as environmental conditions. Dogs have a minimal amount of non-functional signs of domestication. The thick fur of these dogs allows them to easily endure frosts. Therefore, they can be kept year round on the street.
Dog breeds: list
The most common types:
- Alaskan Malamute;
- Siberian Husky;
- Samoyed
- Eskimo like;
- Greenland dog.
Now let's take a closer look at each breed.
Alaskan Malamute
These dogs are friendly, they like to be in the spotlight. Therefore, Malamutes feel better in the family than in the yard. These dogs are smart, and they can be a bit stubborn. Since the Malamutes have a strong character, they often begin to dominate other dogs, so aggression between relatives is not excluded. They are absolutely not aggressive with people, therefore they are not suitable for protection, and it does not make sense to educate them like that. Despite their good-natured character, their appearance is still impressive, therefore it is for them that they can scare away the attacker.
It must be remembered that Alaskan Malamute is a working dog. She should always be busy with something, she needs long walks. Note that in the Malamutes in the blood digging of the earth. Previously, these dogs were fed this way (i.e., rodents). Digging up land, animals truly enjoy the process.
Siberian Husky
Talking about the breeds of sled dogs, one can not help but mention the husky. These are medium sized dogs. They initially did their job in harness, transporting cargo (small) over long distances.
These dogs are very smart, but they do not tolerate loneliness. Husky feels best in company with another dog or person. If a representative of the breed is bored, then he can harm home furniture or other objects (for example, bite them).
Husky is very sociable, they like games. Dogs with great pleasure run in a harness. Watching and guarding is something that huskies will not do. Representatives of the breed get along well with familiar relatives, strictly observe the hierarchy. They are indifferent to strange dogs.
A distinctive feature of the breed is its blue eyes. The look of these dogs is fascinating. Their coat is shiny. To maintain an attractive appearance, they need to be combed out at least once a week.
Samoyed
Continuing to describe the breeds of sled dogs, I would like to dwell on the Samoyed husky. Representatives of the breed are medium in size. These dogs have an amazing character. They are obedient, kind, unpretentious, direct.
Samoyeds have strong immunity, therefore they are immune to diseases. These dogs perfectly adapt to any conditions.
Alone, the Samoyed misses him; he needs close contact with the owner. Such a dog lends itself perfectly to training. In the learning process, you need to be patient and caring. In no case should force and aggression be used.
Samoyed loves to play, take part in competitions such as agility.
Representatives of the breed do not need special care, except for the care of wool.
After bathing, it should not remain wet, it needs to be dried, then combed. These dogs shed only a couple of times a year, and molting is fast.
Considering the breeds of sled dogs, I would like to note that the Samoyed is, without a doubt, the most obedient dog from this group. Such a dog will not break the fences and run into the "AWOL." Samoyed needs a walk. But they prefer to do it together with the owners.
Conclusion
Now you know what northern sled dogs are. These breeds are distinguished by endurance, they can cover long distances. Nowadays, these dogs are kept even in apartments, but for their normal development they need great physical activity.