We use primarily Alaskan huskies on our tours. Alaskan huskies are descendants of the dogs that pioneered the gold trails, freight runs, and mail routes of the early Alaskan territory. In the early days, dog sleds were the only means of wintertime transportation. Dogs were in short supply and very valuable, so just about any dog would do. As a result, cross breeding involving every large breed from retrievers to pointers to Malamutes and Siberians occurred.
|
With the advent of snow machines and the decline of the “working” sled dog the local Alaskan mushers turned to recreation and racing and the focus of their breeding changed. Unfortunately, the big, strong freight dogs could not compete and a new breed began to appear. This new breed based primarily on the smaller, faster “village” dogs became known simply as the Alaskan Husky. Although not a “pure” breed the Alaskan Husky is known for its speed, endurance, and gentle personality.
|