Tag Archives: diet

Do Sled Dogs Need Lots of Carbs Before a Race?

When we humans prepare for a marathon, we eat lots of carbs in the days before the race to increase stored muscle energy. But sled dogs have much different metabolic needs. For them, fat content is far more important, with fats making up as much as 60 – 70% of their diets.

How do I know this? Because the Iditarod has launched a new Ask an Iditarod Vet feature, answering all your questions about sled dog health.

I know there are people who think these endurance-based sled dog races are cruel, but these athletic dogs love their jobs and are probably treated better than yours and mine. And it’s not just about racing; I heard today that some of Alaska’s ballots were delivered to their election boards by sled dog!

You can send questions for Iditarod veterinarians to Krystin at [email protected]

Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!