Discussing What Is And What Makes A Snow Dog
If you live in an area where it snows during the winter, then you’ve probably familiar with the term “snow dog.” While most people have a general idea of what a snow dog is, many people don’t fully understand them and how important they are. This article will cover what breeds of dog are best suited to be a snow dog, what roles snow dogs are best used for, and why snow dogs are so important.
Best Breeds For Snow Dogs
There are 5 breeds of dogs that are known for being excellent snow dogs. Those breeds include Siberian Husky, Alaskan Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Samoyed, and Northern Inuit Dogs. All five of these breeds originate from very cold parts of the world such as Alaska, Russia, Greenland, Norway, Canada, and Siberia. Each breed has a thick double fur coat to help keep them warm and well insulated. These dogs were bred to withstand cold environments, but were also bred to fulfill specific roles/jobs.
Siberian And Alaskan Huskies
When people think of snow dogs, the first type of dog that comes to mind is the iconic Siberian or Alaskan Husky.
According to the A.K.C. (American Kennel Club) registration statistics, Siberian Huskies are the 14th most popular breed in the U.S. Huskies are a very popular breed of dog for their looks, strength, trainability, and loyalty. They are most notably used for sled pulling across snow covered areas. Whether it’s sled racing, sled expeditions, sled tours, or even transportation among rural communities, Huskies are essential.
Alaskan Malamute
Another breed that makes an excellent snow dog is the Alaskan Malamute. Malamutes look similar to Huskies and are also well known for their sled pulling abilities. However, they are very different from Huskies regarding their temperament, physical traits, and origins. This breed of dog originates from Malemiut, Alaska and was essential to the survival of the people that lived there (Mahlemut tribe). The Mahlemut tribe used these dogs for pulling sleds, carrying packs, and hunting.
Northern Inuit Dogs
The Northern Inuit Dog is a very popular breed due to its resemblance to wolves. Dogs were originally domesticated from wolves, but over time most dogs’ physical characteristics drastically changed. The Northern Inuit Dog however, still maintains many of the physical features seen in wolves. These dogs are known for being strong-willed, loyal, intelligent, and very trainable. They are well suited for hunting, carrying packs, and as rescue dogs. To learn more about the various occupations of service dogs, check out our other article called Service Dogs.
Samoyeds
Finally we come to the breed known as Samoyed. These medium sized dogs are particularly known for their sparkling white coat, sturdy build, and friendly demeanor. Samoyeds are very personable dogs that thrive off human attention and interaction. They were originally bred by nomadic tribes in Siberia to herd reindeer and pull sleds. Samoyeds are very active dogs and many are still herding and pulling sleds to this day.
Why Snow Dogs Are Important
Simply put, snow dogs are essential to people that live in very cold climates. From hunting, to carrying heavy packs, and sled pulling transportation, snow dogs play an important role in many people’s lives. It’s not easy living in extremely cold parts of the world like Alaska, Siberia, Norway, or Greenland. But, having a loyal, dependable, and double fur coated friend can make all the difference. A Snow dog is more than simply an occupation, it’s a way of life. Some people truly couldn’t live well without them and for that they have our appreciation and respect.
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