My parents are both retired now. After a lifetime of hard, meaningful work, they are finally ready to relax, right?
Well, as many retired people already know, it’s not as easy as you might think. What do they do with all this free time? What will their bodies allow them to do?
A retiring sled dog can often face the same issues, and they face them in different ways. Some dogs never want to leave the dog yard. It is all they have ever known, and they feel safe and secure there. It is their home, and the other dogs are their family. Other dogs are grateful for a couch or dog bed to curl up on, passing the rest of their days in quiet comfort and leisure. It is our job to decide what would make each dog happy.
When does a sled dog retire?
Most dog owners know the look of excitement that overcomes a dog when they see a leash, or hear the word ‘walk’. It is immediate, uncontrollable, palpable pleasure. A good sled dog will react in the same way. Running is their life, their passion, and their joy.
When we consider a dog for retirement, we have to look at both its physical and mental ability. Some old dogs want to run, but their bodies won’t let them. Some young dogs are completely capable, but are really not that into it. In either of these cases, its probably time for the dog to retire.
YOUNGER DOGS
The most important part of any working sled dog is the simple unwavering desire to run. Most puppies are born with all the enthusiasm they need, and we carefully cultivate it into a positive work ethic. Every now and then, though, a dog just doesn’t seem interested. We have two younger dogs that are looking for their forever homes.
CLARISSE
Clarisse never really had a knack for the sled dog lifestyle. At three years old, she is beautifully built and very sweet toward humans. She will pull for about 2 miles, then start slacking. From the Halloween litter (born October 31, 2016), she never quite reached the level of motivation that have characterized her 4 brothers.
We think Clarisse would be a perfect pet dog for the right person. Like all huskies, she should go to an active home where she will get some exercise. She can also be a bit aggressive toward other dogs, so she should probably be the only dog in the home. She is extremely sweet, though, and would love the chance to cuddle with someone on the couch.
Clarisse is spayed and can’t wait to start her new life with that special somebody (or somebodies).
YETI
Yeti is a big dog in stature and in attitude. At five years old, this guy is overflowing with personality. He likes back scratches and playing with his brother. He might not quite trust you at first, but once he warms up to you there is no end to the adventures to be had with him.
Yeti is an OK sled dog. I like having him around, but can’t help feeling that this isn’t really what he wants to be doing. He pulls hard for about 10-12 miles, then decides he would rather be doing something else. He could go to a recreational musher or ski-jourer, or would also make a fine addition to someone’s home as a pet. Again, like all huskies, Yeti has plenty of energy and needs regular exercise.
He is neutered and ready for an adventure!
OLDER DOGS
The average retirement age is around 10, but it depends on the dog. If a dog is still willing and capable, they can work until around 12 years. Eventaully, though, they start to slow down. When they start losing interest in pulling, or when they can no longer work safely, we start looking for a home for them.
Adopting an older dog can be difficult, but also extremely rewarding. Don’t let anyone tell you that an old dog can’t learn new tricks! These retired huskies just want you to be happy. They often live for 15-16 years, but it’s not unheard of for a sled dog to reach 20!
OAK
Oak is a big sweetheart. At 11 years, he is ready to settle down. He might have a bit of anxiety at first, but with a little work you will be rewarded with one of the kindest dogs I have ever met. He is neutered and still active for his age.
Oak would go best with a family that has time to spend with him. Living in a home will be a big adjustment, so the more care and love he is surrounded by the better he will adjust. He has never been aggressive toward dogs or kids, and would probably even tolerate a cat.
WACKER
Wacker will be available for adoption at the end of this season. At 10 years old, he is still a hard worker. He’s no spring chicken though, and we think it would be better for him to find a home before he gets old. He’s friendly to both humans and dogs and has a big outgoing personality.
SHAYLA
Shayla is also 10 this year and ready to. Sweet, cuddly, and loyal, Shayla is a favorite for all the employees and many of the guests at our kennel. She is spayed and will follow you anywhere. Not for a home with cats.
LP
LP is an 11-year-old neutered male who loves to stick his nose against your face and nuzzle you for as long as you will allow. His name is short for Little Pud after his dad Pud. He usually doesn’t like to stop moving, but would make an exception for a comfy couch and a person to cuddle with. He is a very sweet dog, good with kids and animals.
If you want to know more about adopting a retired sled dog, please email us at pawsforadventure@gmail.com!