While dog racing in Alaska is a lifestyle to many folks, in Inuit communities' dog mushing has been a part of history and resilience for thousands of years. Before dog mushing became a sport and before engine-run vehicles were available in the Arctic, dog teams were the main way of transport. From hunting and moving supplies to trade routes to other communities. Dogs were an integral part of life and partners in survival.

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The Kotzebue area was known as the 'Malemiut' tribe and is where modern-day Malemute huskies originated. They are large, draft-style dogs that were built for strength, cold weather, and endurance. Today, our dogs are known as Alaskan huskies -- basically a well-thought-out and planned mixed breed of dog. They still carry much of the traditional breeds' important genetic code that makes them thrive in cold temperatures. The main difference is speed and size.

 

Dog mushing today is a tough, fun sport, but it is deeply important to Inuit communities. It is a way to keep traditions alive, showing and teaching younger generations another way to connect to their culture, ancestors, and the land.