Having raised Siberian Huskies, their are two answers here. First, like humans, it can depend on where they are raised. Regional human foods can be fed them (if you choose healthy ones for dogs - check with your vet) as well as standard dog foods. Second, if actually working the dogs, small portions multiple times per day of a high protein, moderate carbohydrate dry food is preferred for energy and stamina. The smaller portions keep the animal satisfied, but doesn't make it uncomfortable (remember last Thanksgiving?) so that it can concentrate on work. If the work involves long hauls without places to resupply, dry food is better due to weight considerations. Many sled dogs will eat raw or cooked fish caught on the trail, but like us humans, some will turn up their noses at foods they don't like; as with any dog you will have to find out the likes and dislikes of each particular dog.
The people who control a dog sled are called mushers. They stand on the runners at the back of the sled and give commands to the team of dogs to steer and control their speed. Mushers must have good communication with their dogs and be skilled in navigating the terrain.
The mushers have baskets that carry the gear on the Iditarod Trail. These baskets are used to let the dogs rest while on break.
They freeze to death once they're stranded by not having any dogs to pull their sled any more.
They run all year and slowly increase their distance and speed each time they run. ( they are still using a sled to pull the musher)
sled dogs like to eat with their person because they think their a familly they share their food toghether
If the dogs have access to it.
"Mushers"
A pro to the Iditarod is that the food for the dogs contain fat in them. The dogs usually eat fatty fish, beef, and lamb. A con is that the sled dogs are forced to race when they can suffer from heart failure, pneumonia, and sled accidents. A second pro is that the dogs MUST where booties to prevent frostbite and cut paws. Another con is that dogs' mushers can injure or even kill the huskies if they don't do what the musher wants them to do.
In sled dog races, drugs are not allowed that would improve the strength or endurance of a dog. Other drugs, such as some antibiotics, may be restricted as well.
The people who control dog sleds are called mushers. They are responsible for guiding and managing the team of sled dogs, ensuring their safety and well-being during the journey. Mushers often train their dogs and develop a strong bond with them, essential for successful sledding. The sport is popular in various regions, particularly in Alaska and parts of Canada.
No. Only one musher and 16 dogs are allowed to run the 1,161 miles. No replacements if a dog get injured either.
there are usually around 60 people in the iditarod each year