2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21
It is believed that sled dog breeds (northern, hunting) are direct descendants of the primitive (ancient) dogs of Asia and Europe. It is possible that their origin is connected with wolves. Sled dogs were indispensable assistants 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 on sleds with dogs. It is likely that there were few expeditions that did without dogs.
During the day, these dogs can trot about seventy kilometers. They have very strong paws. Exceptional physical endurance and unpretentiousness are the main advantages of draft dogs, which have been developed over hundreds of years under great physical exertion, on long trips on ice and snow.
How many breeds of sled dogs are known today? International reference publications number about 10-15 (this is not counting aboriginal rare breeds).
Having briefly described the characteristics of dogs, now consider their temper and qualities.
Character and characteristics of behavior
Breeds of sled dogs combine seemingly incompatible qualities. In order for work in a team to be good, 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. Breeds of sled dogs are distinguished by a strong constitution, good physique. In size, these dogs are large and medium.
The character of the representatives of the sled breeds is balanced, calm. They do not show aggression towards humans. These dogs are distinguished by good immunity (resistant to diseases). They are optimally adapted to feed as well as external conditions. Dogs show minimal non-functional signs of domestication. The thick coat of these dogs allows them to easily endure frosts. Therefore, they can be kept outside all year round.
Sled dog breeds: list
The most common types:
- Alaskan Malamute;
- Siberian Husky;
- Samoyed;
- eskimo husky;
- Greenland dog.
Now let's take a closer look at each breed.
Alaskan Malamute
These dogs are friendly and love to be the center of attention. Therefore, Malamutes feel best in the family than in the yard. These dogs are smart, but can be a bit stubborn. Since Malamutes have a strong character, they often begin to dominate other dogs, so aggression between relatives is not ruled out. With people they are absolutely notaggressive, therefore they are not suitable for protection, and it makes no sense to train them like that. Despite their good-natured nature, they still have an impressive appearance, which is why they can scare off an intruder with them.
It must be remembered that the Alaskan Malamute is a working dog. She must always be busy with something, she needs long walks. Note that Malamutes have digging in their blood. Previously, these dogs obtained food (that is, rodents) in this way. Digging up plots of land, animals truly enjoy the process.
Siberian Husky
Talking about the breeds of sled dogs, one cannot fail to mention the husky. These are medium sized dogs. They originally did their work in a team, transporting loads (small) over long distances.
These dogs are very smart, but they do not tolerate loneliness. Husky feels best in the company of another dog or person. If a representative of the breed gets bored, then he can damage household furniture or other objects (for example, chew them).
Huskies are very sociable and love to play. Dogs are very happy to run in 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 other people's dogs.
A distinctive feature of the breed is blue eyes. The look of these dogs is mesmerizing. Their fur is shiny. To maintain an attractive appearance, they need to be brushed at least once a week.
Samoyed
Continuing to describe the breeds of sled dogs, I would like to dwell on the Samoyed. Representatives of the breed are medium in size. These dogs have amazing personalities. They are obedient, kind, unpretentious, spontaneous.
Samoyeds have a strong immune system, so they are immune to disease. These dogs adapt perfectly to any conditions.
Alone Samoyed is bored, he needs close contact with the owner. This dog is highly trainable. In the process of learning, you need to show patience and care. Force and aggression should never 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 the coat.
After bathing, it should not remain wet, it must be dried, then combed. These dogs molt only a couple of times a year, and the molt passes quickly. 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 fences and run away without permission. The Samoyed needs to go for walks. But they prefer to make them together with the owners.
Conclusion
Now you know what northern sled dogs are. These breeds are distinguished by endurance, they can overcome long distances. Nowadays, such dogs are kept even in apartments, but for their normal development they need a lot of physical activity.
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