Dog harness, Central Eskimo from Bulletin -- Smithsonian Institution, Bureau of American Ethnology.

Object Details

Book Title: Bulletin -- Smithsonian Institution, Bureau of American Ethnology.
Caption: Dog harness, Central Eskimo.
Educational Notes: Known as mans best friend, it is fitting that the Native American tribes of Alaska and Canada were never seen without their dogs. Sled dogs, like the one pictured, were very important for transportation in these cold, arctic areas. The dogs would pull sleds that held needed supplies. There was no faster or more efficient way to transport goods than with the use of a dog sled team. The dogs would be harnessed, as seen in the picture, and hooked to one another and the sled. It was very important that a sled dog be cooperative and well trained. Chosen for their size, strength, and endurance levels, many traditional sled dogs are from the Alaskan Husky and Malamute breeds. These dogs have webbed feet that allow traction on the snow, and warm, thick fur that allows them to stay warm in the cold temperatures. Native Americans depended on these dogs hundreds of years ago and continue to do so today!

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