Transportation

Sled dog travel is the oldest form of transportation in North America. They were originally used by the Inuit and widely used by native groups who lived in the northern areas of North America.

Wolves were first used before the introduction of the European dog from the fur traders. After which, breeding between dog and wolf led to many mixed breeds. In essence, all dogs are decedents from the wolves. At a very early age the pups were taken from their mothers and trained to pull the sled. The animals were extremely strong, bred to live outdoors, and eat raw meat (a diet that would kill the average domestic dog).

Sled dog teams were used for work only and not considered “house” pets. They were extremely territorial and established a hierarchy amongst each team, with one dog, usually the strongest and most intelligent taking the role of lead dog.

The sleds, often called a “carryall,” averaged 4 meters in length and were pulled by 5-7 dogs. The platform was constructed using 2 boards approx. 5M in length and 250mm wide creating a total width of 500mm. The board length included three sections; the curl at the front, the main flat traveling surface area, and the space for the driver to stand upon. Tamarack or birch trees were traditionally used. They were durable yet flexible enough to bend into shape, with the sidewalls of the sled traditionally made from moose hide.

Dog Sled Team
Artifacts courtesy of the Glenbow Museum Collection,
Calgary, Alberta
An average team would carry the weight of the dogs plus the musher. For example, 7 dogs would carry 400 kg. and travel an average 8-10 hours a day, covering a 100-110 km. distance. On a long trip a sled would be filled with camping gear, stove, extra clothes, axe, gun, shovel, and food for both human and dogs. Dogs would eat about 3kg. of food a day. They would eat dried meat or fish and on the day of the hunt, fresh meat.

Traditional sled dog teams were used exclusively until the 1950’s and 1960’s, when snowmobiles were introduced. The sleds have not been eliminated altogether, but they are no longer the sole method of transportation in the north.

The Woodland and Swampy Cree’s were forest dwellers who lived by hunting, trapping, and fishing. The dog team was essential for their transportation in winter as they followed the trap lines and helped to carry goods for the local fur traders. Often the sleds, or ‘carioles’ and the dog’s harnesses were gaily decorated with embroidery and trinkets. Their “bells” made a pleasing sound as they traveled through the silent forest.

“Prepare to meet Canada’s “True North Strong & Free” commanding beautiful, world class husky teams from the renowned Snowy Owl crew.” Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours is located in Canmore, Alberta. Visit them at www.snowyowltours.com