Mushers and Dogs in Training

The Iditarod is one of the toughest endurance tests known to man and animal alike. Racing teams travel from Anchorage, Alaska, heading north, all the way to Nome, Alaska in the end of winter. The history of this great race is rich, and it has taught many lessons for more than 100 years.

Flesh and blood against the elements must be prepared to face every challenge, and overcome every obstacle. Training begins in summer, just before the scent of snow blows in with the chill of fall. Trainers begin by picking the best dogs to lead their packs. They will need to pick four sets of two dogs each to pull the sled.

Trainers gather the dogs in a gang line to determine which ones will be selected. They will choose lead dogs, swing dogs, team dogs, and wheel dogs from the pack. Each pair will have their special duties, and must be able to work well with the other dogs.

• Lead dogs: These dogs are in front of the sled. They carry the weight of what's behind them, watching for danger as they follow the trail. They must be trained to follow the musher's commands no matter what. Obedience is vital for lead dogs.

• Swing dogs: These dogs are required to help turn the sled. They have to know how to handle the weight of the sled, while maneuvering around curves in the trail. Their work is difficult as they keep the sled from overturning in bad weather, and difficult passages.

• Team dogs: These dogs pull the sled. They have to be strong and able to endure the forces of wind, and weaknesses of the other dogs.

• Wheel dogs: These dogs are directly in front of the sled. Their job is to steer the sled. If the sled gets stuck, the wheel dogs are required to pull it free so the journey can continue.

All of these dogs must be obedient to the commands of the musher. They receive basic training to help them learn cooperation. The basic training includes obedience, short distance running, long distance running, recognizing and avoiding danger, and staying on course. Through this, drivers and dogs learn to trust each other.

Training requires patience, positive reinforcement, and authority. It needs to be consistent, expected, and natural. Dogs and mushers both need special training to enter the Iditarod.

Training Tips for Dogs

• Run the dogs every day, at the same time of day.

• Keep a record of strengths and weaknesses of the dogs.

• Reward strengths, and set aside time to work on weaknesses.

• Help the dogs build muscle by having them haul things.

• Work with other trainers, and use each other's experience.

Training Tips for Mushers

• Expose yourself to the elements. Learn and practice basic survival skills.

• Create a daily workout routine that includes aerobics and weight lifting.

• Practice your voice of authority. Speak firmly, but not harshly.

• Love your dogs. Treat them with respect and kindness.

• Work as a team, becoming one while training for the race.

It takes several months to effectively train for the Iditarod. Mushers and dogs need time to develop the important relationship necessary for survival. They must get used to individual personalities, and learn to depend on each other. A family bond is created that only gets stronger in the midst of the journey. A little bit of history is embraced along the way.