Things to Know Before Rehoming an Alaskan Sled Dog
Anna getting checked in for her flight to Florida (2023)
Rehoming a sled dog is the most rewarding experience as you build the most unique relationship you will ever have with a dog. But, before diving in head first, you should be aware of some nuances that make Alaskan sled dogs different from your average pound puppy.
Alaskan sled dogs are working dogs. While other breeds are also “working” dogs, these sled dogs take it to a whole different level. Be prepared to keep their mind active. “Thinking” games like hide and seek, scent work and similar treat-based games can provide them with the mental stimulation they need to feel like a contributing member of your pack. My youngest sled dog does agility while the older one enjoys the treat-based games.
They have next-level energy. Even though you may be rehoming a retired athlete who is considered a “senior” by veterinary standards, make no mistake about their need for activity. My 9 year old retiree needs 3-4, short (no more than 10 minute) fast-paced walks every day to be happy. My youngest needs 2, 30-minute fast-paced walks each day and he prefers a “loop” route rather than an “out-and-back” (I assume his preference is for mental stimulation and “seeing” more on the walk).
They love cuddling up on soft furniture with their new family. My retirees have not found a bed, couch or chair they do not like. If you do not want dogs on the furniture, think about using blankets to minimize the hair or dirt that is concerning you. Or, just get used to it.
They may not know the basics, yet. Neither of my retirees knew what “sit,” “down,” or “stay” meant. But, my Iditarod finisher sure knows gee and haw (right and left)! Do not confuse their lack of “basic” commands with stupidity or stubbornness. As an athlete, they are taught the things they need to know for their job of pulling a sled. While my retirees’ musher allows his sled dogs in the house regularly, he is not concerned about those formal household commands that pet owners covet. If you want them to learn the household commands, work with a trainer or on your own to help them learn. Interestingly, my Iditarod finisher did come to us knowing the command “drop it”—which came in handy when she had a dead squirrel in her mouth, in the house!
They are great at the vet’s office. My retirees love going to the vet. They love the attention. As athletes, they are taught at a young age to let people manipulate their paws, legs and generally examine them as they must allow this at the various races in which they compete. I just took one of ours for his annual visit earlier this month and the staff commented on how well-behaved he was during the exam.
The retiree will likely be a senior dog or close to it. This means you may need to budget a little more for joint supplements or “senior” food. Overall, sled dogs are very well cared for and are in extremely good health when rehomed from a reputable musher. But, as with any older dog, it is important to be prepared financially for the unexpected.
Logistics. Sled dogs are clever. Like any husky owner will tell you, they love to run (away). If you have a fenced yard, it would be a good idea to supervise your retiree to minimize the opportunity for escape. Once of our (younger) rehomed sled dogs climbed a four-foot fence so that he could run down the street to visit with his friend Walter (a black lab). Two of our three current retirees can open doors, so we have to be sure to keep them locked or secure an outer door that they have not learned how to open. It is important to teach them a reliable recall command (e.g. come when called—even when they’re doing something more fun).
You will never regret it. These sled dogs have the ability to connect deeply with their humans. When competing out on the trail, their musher is their only human and they work together as a team to get to the finish. The musher relies on the team to pull the sled and they rely on the musher to care for them, feed them, rest them, and make sure they are having fun. Once your sled dog is welcomed into your home, you will become their human and this feeling will make your heart swell with joy. Don’t let them down.
Grinder and Anna enjoying retirement (2023)
