Sled dog breeds love two things: cold weather and running. Well, they also love being part of a team. And having a job to do. And learning new things. Basically, these are very active dogs eager for attention, affection and adventure. Many of the sled dogs on our list look similar at first (pointed ears, spitz-style tails, black and white coats, lots of blue eyes), but looking closer, they’re all unique and their temperaments can vary. Most are ancient working dog breeds, intelligent and independent. Some have high prey drives. All require firm training early on. You’re the pack leader, baby! You’ve got to earn their love by establishing ground rules for these strong, affectionate dogs.

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Who Are Some Famous Sled Dogs?

Perhaps the two most famous sled dogs are Togo and Balto. In January of 1925, the town of Nome, Alaska was on the brink of a diphtheria epidemic. Children were getting sick and the disease, which basically suffocates its patients to death, was highly contagious. Due to whiteout snow conditions and high winds, trains could only carry the serum from Anchorage as far as Nenana, almost 700 miles east of Nome.

Togo and Balto each led a team of sled dogs on separate legs of this trip over the course of just six days, thwarting the spread of diphtheria. While the 1995 animated movie “Balto” celebrates the dog leading the team that arrived in Nome and officially delivered the serum, Disney’s 2019 “Togo” tells the story of the dog who led a team on the longest, riskiest stretch of tundra through Alaska to save the day. The Anchorage Daily News says “Togo” gets many details of this story right, including a dog sled team crossing the treacherous Norton Sound as a shortcut.

Balto is now believed to have been a hearty mix of many different breeds, though he looked a lot like a Siberian Husky. Togo is recorded as being a husky. Both dogs’ bodies were preserved and have been on display in museums across the country to honor their dedication and determination.

What Breeds Make the Best Sled Dogs?

The American Kennel Club says the breeds most known for their work as sled dogs are Samoyeds, Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies and Chinooks. You’ll notice some breeds on our list aren’t officially recognized by kennel clubs, but are regional sled dogs who have developed over centuries to thrive in particular areas based on what their people needed. 

Can a Sled Dog Be a Pet?

Yes, sled dogs can be pets—in the right hands. These dogs are not for first-time dog owners due to their strong-willed personalities and high energy needs. While some are suitable for families with young kids, others are best living with adults or older children. Many sled dogs also have strong prey drives, so households with cats, crawling babies, birds or other small animals should introduce a sled dog to the family in puppyhood. They need to know who and what is off limits. 

Before getting a sled dog as a pet, it’s imperative you know exactly how you’ll provide lots of outdoor time in big spaces for your dog. Running is a fact of life for these cold-weather canines. Large, fenced-in yards are ideal, but don’t assume that will be enough! Many of the breeds on our list need fresh adventure. Think about hiking, agility training, hunting, tricks and more.

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