Many breeds enjoy mushing

At any meeting where these mushing enthusiasts gather there is a great variety of breeds.

Although most racing in New Zealand is on wheels, there are some areas of the South Island where snow racing is enjoyed in the winter months. These clubs, however, are in the minority - wheeled racing is challenge enough and an enjoyable exercise. Breeds currently attending race meets are:

Alaskan Malamute
One of the oldest dog breeds, they have been used as work animals by the Mahlemut tribe to haul sleds and as pack dogs for centuries. The tribe cherished their dogs and the Malamute was very well cared for by these people.

A large dog, the Malamute is power and beauty personified. Although slower than the Siberian, they are capable of pulling heavy loads for considerable distances. These are the Mack trucks of the canine world. Today's racing Mals still possess the legendary strength. The SISDSA teams run sprint, freight, and the new class passenger racing.

Samoyed
The Samoyed takes its name from the Siberian tribe for whom the dog was companion, herding tool, child minder, foot warmer and even when times were tough, their food. The Samoyed is a breed born to please and is never happier than when participating in its owner's life.

However, having completed the task once a Samoyed will find it rather boring unless given new things to try. Training a Samoyed for racing takes patience. They are not fast and overseas their speeds generally fall in between those of the Malamutes and the Siberian husky. Several American teams successfully and competitively have raced distances in the hundreds of kilometres. Samoyeds in NZ have raced in both snow and rig events and it can be said that nothing is so beautiful as the smiling white dog as it runs for the pleasure of its owner and itself.

Siberian Husky
This breed stands out on its own - known for its beauty, personality and endurance. One of the smallest of working breeds, it is a powerhouse in a trim package - while of moderate size and bone, it is capable of enduring long, arduous journeys under the worst conditions. The Siberian husky was born to run. It is quick, light on its feet and graceful in motion. For this reason, they make great sled dogs. The Siberian husky originated in Eastern Siberia by the Chukchi people, as a far-ranging, low-energy-consuming sled dog.

They had to withstand the many harsh conditions enforced on them, such as great distances with little food and extremely harsh weather. Today's racing Siberian Huskies have not changed from their original purpose. This is why they make great sled dogs.

Other breeds
While the club's purpose is to promote the purebred northern dogs, and in some cases the trophies and prizes reflect this, other breeds are very welcome to run the races. The SISDSA welcomes all suitable breeds of dogs at its events. It can claim akitas, boxers, beardies, si-borgs and bitzers (unknown origin) competing. Other breed teams enthusiastically compete in their own class.