Snowhook Dog Sledding - AJ with Dog on shoulders

Our Dogs

Snowhook Dog Sledding - AJ with Dog on shoulders

Snowhook is made up of race dogs, retired dogs, young dogs, old dogs, dogs who don’t think they are dogs, and rescued dogs. As working sled dogs, they want to run. They need to run. They love to run. All of our dogs have one thing in common — they are our family. It’s not just something we say, it is our commitment to them. Whether the dogs were born in our kennel or found a home with us later, they have a home with us for life. Our team, composed of Alaskan huskies, showcases not just the breed’s exceptional endurance and strength but also their remarkable temperament. These dogs, hailing from a lineage of champion mushing and retired sled dogs, are the true stars of our racing events and dry sledding experiences. Each one, from the lead dogs of Snowhook to the husky puppies Alaska has welcomed into our fold, receives amazing welfare and care, ensuring they enjoy a happy dog sledding lifestyle alongside their human companions.

In the Alaskan world of dog mushing, our canine team members stand out for their dedication and joy in every race and run, whether it’s a competitive Alaskan husky race or a leisurely dog ride in the snow for our guests. Our kennel tour offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of these amazing animals, highlighting our commitment to lifetime care for our sled dogs and sharing stories of our canine heroes of sledding. Through every husky adventure and dog mushing event, we celebrate the legacy of these incredible animals, their contributions to the tradition of dog sledding origin, and the deep bond they share with their mushers. Join us to meet the working huskies in Alaska that make every Snowhook adventure unforgettable.

At Snowhook Adventure Guides of Alaska, we see our dogs not just as athletes but as cherished members of our family. The breeding of our Alaskan huskies focuses on more than just the prowess needed for an Alaskan husky race; it’s about nurturing an experience filled with care, companionship, and respect. These dogs of the Iditarod carry within them the legacy of dog sled racing, enriched by a lineage that exemplifies the best dog sled traits: strength, endurance, and a joyful spirit for the dog mushing race Alaska is known for. Our commitment extends beyond the race trails; it’s in providing a loving home that honors each dog’s contribution, from the lead dogs of Snowhook to the spirited husky puppies Alaska has given us, ensuring they all enjoy a quality life filled with happiness and health.

Our kennel tours introduces guests to the heart of our operation, where welfare and care are paramount. Here, visitors meet our mushing team, comprised of champion dogs and retired sled dogs who have found their forever homes with us. This close-knit family showcases the vibrant personalities that make up our kennel, from the eager young mushers in training to the veteran dog sled stories that inspire us all. Through careful breeding, we ensure each generation of dogs not only carries the proud traits of their predecessors but also the Alaskan husky temperament that makes them such incredible dog sledding companions and members of the Snowhook family.

Our Dogs Retirment

At Snowhook Adventure Guides of Alaska, our journey with every dog begins with their passion for running and our commitment to their well-being. Founded in 2004 by AJ and Rebecca Savidis, our team has grown to include dogs with remarkable stories, from those born into the sport of dog mushing in Alaska to veterans of the Iditarod. These dogs aren’t just athletes; they’re a vital part of our family. We celebrate their achievements in every race and cherish the daily moments of companionship. Our approach goes beyond the tracks, ensuring each dog, whether a seasoned racer or a retired companion, receives the care and love they deserve.

Our dogs’ legacy is steeped in the rich tradition of dog sledding, with a focus on creating a nurturing environment that respects their heritage and supports their future. Through our kennel tours, we introduce visitors to the heart of our operation, where the well-being of our dogs is our top priority. Sharing the adventures and the stories of our dogs offers a glimpse into the life of mushing dogs and the deep bonds they form with their mushers. It’s not just about the races we’ve won; it’s about promoting a healthy, happy life for our dogs, celebrating the spirit of husky adventures, and ensuring our retired dogs enjoy a peaceful retirement.

The Future of Dog Sledding

Looking ahead, Snowhook Adventure Guides of Alaska is set on enriching the dog sledding lifestyle with a focus on sled dog welfare and care. Our plans include ensuring that our retired sled dogs continue to enjoy a life filled with joy and relaxation after their racing days are over. We’re committed to sharing the husky experience with more people through dog excursions and kennel tours, offering an up-close look at the champion mushing dogs and the dedicated mushers who lead our teams. This initiative not only honors the legacy of our lead dogs of Snowhook but also educates guests about the importance of good sled dog practices and the rich dog sled history.

Our dogs’ legacy is steeped in the rich tradition of dog sledding, with a focus on creating a nurturing environment that respects their heritage and supports their future. Through our kennel tours, we introduce visitors to the heart of our operation, where the well-being of our dogs is our top priority. Sharing the adventures and the stories of our dogs offers a glimpse into the life of mushing dogs and the deep bonds they form with their mushers. It’s not just about the races we’ve won; it’s about promoting a healthy, happy life for our dogs, celebrating the spirit of husky adventures, and ensuring our retired dogs enjoy a peaceful retirement.

FAQ's

Our dogs start their training early, learning the basics of dog mushing under the guidance of experienced dog sled trainers. The process begins with simple commands and gradually introduces them to harnesses and the dog teams sled. Training emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and the joy of running, ensuring each dog, from the eager husky puppies to seasoned veterans of the Iditarod, thrives in the snowy Alaskan landscapes. We prioritize sled dog welfare and care, making sure each dog enjoys the husky sledding experience while preparing for everything from casual dog rides in snow to competitive Alaskan husky races.

Absolutely, the well-being of our sled dogs is our highest priority at Snowhook. Our expertise in sled dog care ensures each dog, from the youngest puppies to our cherished veterans, receives comprehensive care. This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary check-ups, and plenty of exercise and affection for the sled dogs. We are deeply committed to lifetime care, embodying a dog sledding lifestyle that respects and celebrates each dog’s contribution, whether they’re racing in an Alaskan husky race or enjoying a leisurely dog ride in snow with our guests. Our approach guarantees that the heroic huskies of Alaska lead joyful, healthy lives as integral members of our team.

Yes, guests are welcome to meet our sled dogs before or after our dog sled tours, offering a wonderful opportunity to connect with these incredible animals up close. This experience allows you to see the husky temperament firsthand, learn all about sled dogs from our knowledgeable team, and witness the strong bond between our mushers and their dogs. We’re proud of our sled dog care expertise, ensuring our dogs are not just well-prepared for the adventures of dog mushing in Alaska but also happy and healthy members of the Snowhook family. Meeting our dogs adds a special touch to the husky sledding experience, making your Alaskan adventure with dogs truly unforgettable.

Snowhook Adventure Guides stands out from other dog sledding companies primarily through our deep respect for the sled dogs and the authentic Alaskan mushing life we embody. Our approach to dog sledding goes beyond the thrill of the race, focusing on the well-being and happiness of our dogs, from the stars of Alaskan husky races to our Snowhook retired racers. Each member of our team, including the mushers and our canine heroes of sledding, shares a commitment to creating memorable dog sledding companions and excursions that reflect the true spirit of Alaska. This dedication, coupled with our unique canine retirement program, ensures that every dog, whether leading a team or enjoying retirement, receives the care and love they deserve, making your Alaskan adventure with dogs unparalleled.

For dog sledding, we primarily use Alaskan Huskies, celebrated for their speed, endurance, and adaptability in the cold Alaskan climate. These sled dogs are the heart of our mushing team and the stars of every Alaskan husky race we participate in. Alongside them, we sometimes also work with Siberian Huskies, known for their strength and resilience. Both breeds exemplify the spirit of husky sledding, bringing to life the rich tradition of dog sledding origin. At Snowhook, we ensure these dogs, from seasoned Iditarod veterans to playful puppies, receive the highest level of care, showcasing our commitment to the well-being and joy of our dog sledding companions as we take on every Alaskan adventure with dogs.

Absolutely, sled dogs, particularly those bred in Alaska like our Huskies, are well-adapted to live comfortably in cold weather. These dogs have thick fur coats that provide insulation against the cold, and their high energy levels help keep them warm when they are active. In our Iditarod kennels, we ensure that all dogs, from the racing stars to our retired racers, have access to proper shelter and bedding that further protect them from the elements. Their diet, rich in high-energy sled dog food, also plays a crucial role in maintaining their warmth and overall well-being during the harsh Alaskan winters. Our canine heroes of sledding are not just surviving; they thrive in the snowy conditions, embodying the resilient spirit of working huskies in Alaska.

Choosing lead dogs for our sled teams involves assessing their confidence, intelligence, and ability to follow commands quickly. These dogs, often standing out in our Iditarod kennels, show a natural aptitude for leadership and a keen understanding of mushers’ instructions. Their role is crucial, as they set the pace and direction for the rest of the team during dog mushing races and other dog sledding events in Alaska. We also look for lead dogs that demonstrate a strong bond with their dog sledding companions and can maintain calm under pressure, traits that are vital for navigating the challenging Alaskan terrains. These lead dogs embody the Snowhook sled dog legacy, showcasing the spirit of Alaskan mushing dog life and inspiring countless veteran sled dog stories.

The average working life of a sled dog typically spans from when they are about one to two years old until they reach around eight to ten years of age. This varies depending on the dog’s health, breed, and the specific demands of the sled dog/mushing races in Alaska they participate in. Our priority at Snowhook is ensuring that each sled dog, from those just starting out to our seasoned veterans with countless stories, enjoys a high quality of life during their working years and beyond. Through our Sled Canine Retirement Program, we provide a comfortable and loving environment for our dogs once they retire, continuing the care that is a part of the Snowhook sled dog legacy. This commitment to their well-being reflects our deep respect for all sled dogs and their contributions to the rich tradition of dog sledding.

Yes, sled dogs genuinely enjoy pulling sleds. This joy in running and working as a team is a natural part of their behavior, deeply ingrained in their heritage as sled dogs. Their enthusiasm is evident the moment they’re harnessed to the sled, eager to embark on whatever journey lies ahead, whether it’s a competitive dog sled racing event or a leisurely dog excursion through the Alaskan wilderness. At Snowhook, we nurture this passion by ensuring our dogs are healthy, well-fed with the best sled dog food, and mentally stimulated, all of which contribute to their happiness and eagerness to run. The excitement of our dogs, from the seasoned veterans in our Iditarod kennels to the youngest members of our mushing team, underscores the essence of what it means to be a sled dog, reflecting their love for the sport and the lifestyle it embodies.

When sled dogs retire, they enter a new chapter that honors their years of service and dedication. At Snowhook, our sled dogs, celebrated as canine heroes of sledding, transition seamlessly into retirement, thanks to our Sled Canine Retirement Program. This program ensures they continue to enjoy a high quality of life, receiving the same level of sled dog care expertise they’ve always had. They spend their days enjoying leisurely dog excursions, basking in the snow, or simply resting comfortably. Our retired racers, from the legendary dogs of the Iditarod to the hardworking members of our mushing team, are given all they need to live out their days in happiness and comfort. Their well-being is a testament to the Snowhook sled dog legacy, embodying our commitment to sled dog lifetime care and the deep respect we hold for their contributions to our dog sledding lifestyle.

Visitors can interact with our dogs through guided kennel tours and dog excursions, where you’ll meet and hear stories about sled dogs from their early days as puppies to their achievements as veterans. These interactions provide an intimate glimpse into the Alaskan mushing dog life, allowing you to experience the unique Alaskan husky temperament up close. Our experienced mushers share insights into dog sledding history, the roles each dog plays within the dog team sled, and the individual stories that make up the Snowhook sled dog legacy. This hands-on experience not only educates visitors about the sport and our canine heroes of sledding but also highlights the strong bond between our dogs and their human companions, showcasing the spirit of working huskies in Alaska.

A day in the life of a sled dog is filled with activity, care, and companionship. It begins with a hearty breakfast of high-quality sled dog food to fuel their energetic needs. Following mealtime, the dogs partake in training or exercise sessions, which might include dog sled racing, mushing through snow, or dry dog sledding activities, depending on the season. These sessions are not just about physical fitness but also reinforce the husky adventures spirit and the deep bond between dogs and mushers. Throughout the day, dogs have plenty of time to rest and play, ensuring a balanced lifestyle that caters to their husky experience. Our mushers, skilled in dog sled trainer roles, continuously monitor the health and happiness of each dog, from the champions in our Iditarod kennels to the beloved Snowhook retired racers, maintaining an environment that honors their Alaskan husky temperament and the rich dog sled history they embody.

Additional Information

In the world of sled dogs, there’s so much to learn and experience. Our dogs, from the champions of the Iditarod to the energetic pups just starting their journey, embody the spirit of Alaskan adventures. For those eager to dive deeper into dog sled history and understand all about sled dogs, the International Sled Dog Racing Association ISDRA offers extensive resources and insights. Here, you can explore the origins of dog sledding, notable races, and how mushers and their teams prepare for the challenging yet exhilarating world of dog sled racing.

For a closer look at the nutritional needs that keep our sled dogs in peak condition, including the high-energy sled dog food that fuels their adventures through snow, Dog Food Advisor provides expert reviews and recommendations. And to appreciate the unique Alaskan husky temperament and the lifestyle of these incredible animals, Husky Owners is a community where you can learn from fellow husky enthusiasts about the husky experience, from dry dog sledding to mushing through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re interested in becoming a dog sled trainer, discovering more about the dogs of the Iditarod, or simply seeking to understand the bond between these dog sledding companions, these resources offer a gateway to the captivating world of sled dogs.