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History of Dogsledding

 Dogsledding is estimated to have originated 3000 years ago in modern Siberia. Much of what we know today about dogsledding comes from the Inuit People in Northern Canada. Dogsledding was a major part of the native Inuits culture as they used dogs to transport food and supplies. A sled dog, or the eight dogs used to pull the sled, are primarily of the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Husky, or Alaskan Malamute breed. Dogsledding is also referred to as "mushing" with the person in the sled called the "musher." The dogs are positioned based on their skill level with the lead dog being the most skilled. The lead dog is followed with swing dogs who turn the pack, then team dogs who provide the pack momentum and speed, and in the last position of the pack, the wheel dogs who are the most powerful. Today, dogsledding is primarily a recreational activity that is enjoyed for the thrill of getting to run with the dogs through beautiful, snowy scenery. While some may say this is a cruel activity, sled dogs are treated like kings and queens and have racing in their blood.

 

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Dogsledding History (When and Where it Started)

Dogs have been man's best friend for quite a while. Dogsledding dates back to 1,000 A.D to the Inuit People in Northern Canada. Dogsledding was later adopted by colonizers who managed to make it a more efficient for their uses.

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