Seppala Siberian Sleddog Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Male Height (typical): 56-58 cm. (22-23 inches)
Female Height (typical): 56-58 cm. (22-23 inches)
Size: Medium
Male Weight (typical): 18-23 kg. (40-50 pounds)
Female Weight (typical): 18-23 kg. (40-50 pounds)
Place of Origin: Alaska
Exercise Required: Daily long walks, long runs.
Expected Life Span: 12 – 15 Years
Best suited as: Companion, Working Dog
Other names: Siberian Sleddog

Description – The Seppala Siberian Sleddog is an animal that was purposely bred to pull sleds. It is a genetic cross of several specific Siberian Sleddogs including the Siberian Husky and is not yet recognized as a distinct breed due to the stability and small size of the population. Since the dog is still a fairly diverse breed it has a wide range of physical characteristics that include elements from all the dogs that were crossbred to produce the Seppala Siberian Sleddog. As with most working dogs, physical strength and endurance were favored in the breeding choices over physical beauty of many other breeds. Their bodies have a somewhat rectangular shape that allows them to sprint easily without breaking their gait. Their chests are large to provide adequate air for this physical activity and sit higher in their frame than other dogs. Their hindquarters are muscular and allow them to run at top speed quickly when needed to pull a sled.

Origin & History – This breed was started around 1914 in Nome Alaska for the sole purpose of developing an exceptional sled dog. The name of the dog is a direct credit to Leonhard Seppala, who started the breed in an effort to develop a unique and strong dog for long distance sledding. Over the years this breed has been used in teams that have won many of the major sledding races and is much sought after as a reliable sled dog. These medium sized dogs are expected to be able to pull 100 pounds or more at close to 20mph for long periods and have been specifically bred to accomplish this.

Temperament – The Seppala Siberian Sleddog has a very pleasant personality and a strong work ethic. This gentle dog has a drive that allows it to continue on task through difficult and unpleasant weather conditions and will even run when injured. The breed is a smart animal that will bond strongly with their master and can be easily added to a sled team at a fairly early age. It has a strong drive to run and is very comfortable around other dogs. It has a high prey drive, which may cause it to chase smaller animals and pets if left unsupervised.

Exercise & Grooming – Because of the dog’s intense need to run, it requires a fair amount of exercise to thrive. This is typically done as part of a sled team but can also include long walks daily. The dog has a very unique coat that both protects it from the cold and requires little care. It is a very clean dog that sheds heavily, which may pose problems for tidy homes. Baths are not necessary since they can actually harm the dog by removing the oils that enable its coat to retain heat and stay clean.

Health Concerns – The Seppala Siberian Sleddog is a naturally healthy dog with no known chronic ailments. The biggest concern for the dog is making sure they have the proper diet and exercise required for a healthy life. Because of the immense physical demands that pulling a sled involves, the dog needs to be fed a diet that is high in protein and low in fillers. They don’t require an excess of food but it needs to be as nutritious as possible to help them maintain their stamina.