Non-Sporting Dogs

Sled Dogs. Sled dogs work in teams, hauling big loads over vast distances in the frozen Arctic. They see little of their human masters, remaining in harness throughout the frozen nights curled up in the snow. The lead dog in a pack is harnessed by itself and, in a sense, is manager of the pack. The myth that Husky-type dogs are fierce is completely without foundation. The harsh treatment naturally caused some dogs to attack humans, but a well-treated Husky is as amiable as any of his canine relatives. One of the most beautiful members of the Spitz family, the Samoyeds are named after the semi-nomadic tribes of northwest Asia and Northern Europe. Here the breed developed pure through centuries of rigorous isolation. Nature has outfitted the Samoyed well for his environment and tasks. Harsh, straight outer hairs and thick, soft undercoat shield him from bitter cold. Countless Arctic suns and snows have bleached his coat to a striking white, white and biscuit, or cream, although other colours sometimes occur. A broad back and deep chest give him strength and endurance in harness, and hair tufts between his toes serve as snowshoes. Wedge-shaped head and thickly plumed tail complete the picture of this active, graceful, and intelligent dog which can make an excellent devoted, adaptable and obedient pet. The breed was used as a sledge dog by many Arctic explorers.

The Siberian Husky. The Chukchi, a semi-nomadic tribe of northeastern Siberia, was responsible for developing this animal, which could pull a loaded sled for miles in the coldest imaginable weather without tiring. Even in this mechanized age there are many teams of sledge dogs working in snowbound areas where a car cannot penetrate. The Siberian Husky is a strikingly handsome dog with a dense straight coat of medium length. His colour runs a full range from white to black, often with striking cap and spectacle markings. His head is relatively narrow with strong jaws, high-set ears, and eyes of either brown or light blue - occasionally one of each colour. The Chukchi, like the Samoyeds, regarded dogs as among their most valuable possessions, keeping them inside their homes as companions, guards, and pets, besides working them in harness. The breed's gentle nature reflects centuries of affection and care by its masters.

The general title of Laiki is given to some half-dozen of these Northern breeds, which are used for rounding tip reindeer, guarding the herd and as sled dogs.