The ceremonial start offers great opportunities to photograph mushers and dogs. Sometimes the dogs are doing goofy things. Take for example this pair of Alaska Huskies. They provide a new definition for “wheel dog” as they sit patiently awaiting their turn under the start banner.

In the mushing world, wheel dogs are the canines hitched closest to the sled. Simply stated, they steer the sled when cornering.

Often the wheel dogs are bigger and stronger than dogs running ahead of them. Not only are they strong to guide the sled around objects but they have to be smart to understand the mechanics and their role of keeping the sled on the trail and up-right. Their assistance in controlling the sled is invaluable to the musher.

Born to Run,

Sanka