Category: Alaskan Huskies

Gift a Sled Dog Sponsorship This Holiday Season

Post author By Trail Breaker Kennel
Post date November 15, 2023

A Non-Traditional Gift For A Dog Lover

With the holiday season fast approaching, many of us have begun feeling the pressure that comes with finding meaningful gifts for our loved ones. While finding the right gift can be tricky, Trail Breaker Kennel offers the perfect gift idea for the animal lover in your life: their very own Alaskan sled dog sponsorship!

Sled dog sponsorships serve as unique gifts for animal lovers and dog sledding enthusiasts alike. We offer a variety of sponsorship options to accommodate your preferences and your budget.

Why Should I Sponsor a Sled Dog?

Not only do sled dog sponsorships make great gifts, but they help provide our team of huskies the love, care, and training they deserve. When you sponsor a sled dog at Trail Breaker Kennel, you

Help Us Care, Support, and Train Our Dogs

Sponsorships directly support the care and training of our incredible dogs by helping us fund the costs of food, vet care, training, and more. By gifting a sled dog sponsorship, you play a direct role in our dogs’ success as sled dogs and their excellent quality of life.

Get a Gift That Keeps on Giving Throughout Sledding Season

The recipient of your sled dog sponsorship will receive “pup-date” emails throughout the winter season, race updates, and recap emails, as well as a holiday gift delivered to their home!

Support Deep-Rooted Alaskan Culture

Dog sledding and racing is a deep-rooted part of Alaskan history and culture. When you sponsor a sled dog, you help us preserve and promote this incredible tradition.

What Will My Loved One Receive?

Once you find the dog or puppy you’d like to sponsor; you can choose between gifting a full sponsorship or a bootie sponsorship.

Full Sponsorships Include

Four “pup-date” emails throughout the winter season (September – April) every other month, keeping you informed about your dog’s progress
Your name or business name published on the Trailbreaker Kennel website as your dog’s sponsor
A Christmas gift!
Personalized competition update and recap emails

Bootie Sponsorships Include

A training update on your sponsored dog, providing you with insights into their progress and development
A personalized training/race recap
Your name or business name published on the Trailbreaker Kennel website as your dog’s sponsor

Not Ready to Sponsor A Dog? Gift a Kennel or Team Sponsorship!

Kennel Sponsorship

For those who want to gift a deeper connection with the Trailbreaker Kennel team, a kennel sponsorship is the perfect choice! Perks of a kennel sponsorship include

Bi-monthly updates straight from the trainers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at life at the kennel
The opportunity to have your business name featured on the Trailbreaker Kennel website and gear (if applicable)

Team Sponsorship

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, team sponsorships are available for $25, $50, and $75. By gifting this sponsorship, your loved one will be considered an integral part of the Trail Breaker Kennel Team! Benefits of team sponsorship include:

An end-of-season recap in April giving you a comprehensive overview of the team’s achievements and experiences.
Your name is listed as part of the team on the Trailbreaker Kennel website, highlighting your support and involvement.

Dog Sled Rides Make Great Gifts, Too!

Along with dog sponsorships, Alaskan dog sled tours are fantastic gifts for dog lovers! Visit us in Alaska, and meet the huskies for yourself! Trail Breaker Kennel is a mile drive from the Fairbanks International Airport and is located 15 minutes from downtown Fairbanks, Alaska. Book your dog sledding tour with us!

Tags Dog Sled ride, holiday gifts, non traditional gift, sponsorships

Alaskan Huskies Alaskan Tips

The Ultimate Destination for Dog Sledding

Post author By Trail Breaker Kennel
Post date October 3, 2023

Dog Sledding with a professional mushing team in Fairbanks Alaska

The Thrilling World of Dog Sledding in Fairbanks

Are you ready for an exhilarating adventure in the snowy wilderness? Look no further than the exciting world of dog sledding, also known as mushing! And if you’re looking for the perfect destination to experience this unique winter sport, Fairbanks, Alaska, should be top on your list.

From adrenaline-pumping races like the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race to immersive guided tours, this timeless practice continues to enchant and educate travelers from all walks of life. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history enthusiast, dog sledding in Fairbanks offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the remarkable bond between man and dog.

You don’t need prior experience or physical prowess to enjoy this incredible sport. Professional guides are readily available to teach you how to safely handle the sled, work with the dogs, and navigate various terrains. Beyond just being an adrenaline-pumping adventure, dog sledding also allows you to connect on a deeper level with nature. As you glide silently through untouched landscapes, surrounded by snow-capped trees and majestic mountains, you’ll feel at one with your surroundings.

The Rich History and Cultural Significance of Dog Sledding in Alaska

Dog sledding in Fairbanks has a rich history and cultural significance that captivates locals and visitors alike. This beloved winter sport is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community. One cannot fully appreciate the significance of dog sledding with Alaskan Huskies without acknowledging its roots in native Alaskan traditions.

For centuries, indigenous peoples have relied on dogs as trusted companions and invaluable modes of transportation across vast frozen landscapes. The bond between humans and their sled dogs goes beyond mere utility; it is a deep connection rooted in mutual respect and dependence. Mushing and racing stand as a testament to this enduring tradition.

Beyond its historical significance, dog sledding offers an immersive experience for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic taste of local life. Guided tours allow participants to witness firsthand how these magnificent creatures work together as a team, pulling sleds effortlessly through snow-covered trails.

The Unparalleled Natural Beauty and Terrain of Fairbanks

Fairbanks is blessed with a winter wonderland that seems straight out of a fairy tale. The vast expanse of untouched snow transforms the landscape into a pristine white canvas. As you glide through the trails, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees adorned with delicate icicles, creating a magical atmosphere that is genuinely awe-inspiring.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or want to immerse yourself in nature’s splendor, Fairbanks offers an unrivaled experience in dog sledding. Its picturesque winter landscape, scenic trails meandering through snow-covered forests, and frozen rivers waiting to be conquered make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable dog sledding experience.

Not only will you have an unforgettable experience dog sledding in Fairbanks, but there are also so many other thrilling winter activities for you to enjoy. From ice skating to snowboarding, the options are endless and sure to keep your adrenaline pumping. From witnessing the mesmerizing Aurora borealis to ice fishing and snowshoeing adventures, Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a wide range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Unique Experience of Interacting with Sled Dogs & Puppies

The thrill of gliding across icy terrain while being surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery is unmatched. Moreover, dog sledding provides an opportunity for individuals to learn about responsible animal care for these working dogs.

The bond that forms between mushers and dogs during these expeditions is truly remarkable – these loyal animals become not just your teammates but also your friends. If you’re worried about animal welfare or ethical concerns when it comes to dog sledding, fear not! Dog sled operators prioritize the well-being of their canine athletes.

These dogs are bred and trained specifically for this purpose and are treated with utmost care and love. They are given plenty of rest, proper nutrition, and veterinary care to ensure their health and happiness.

Plan Your Trip to Fairbanks Today and Embark on an Unforgettable Dog Sledding Adventure!

So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an exciting winter adventure or want to experience the magic of dog sledding in a pristine wilderness, Fairbanks is the place to be. Immerse yourself in the world of mushing and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to embark on an epic journey through snow-covered landscapes.

Experienced guides and mushers at Trail Breaker Kennel are readily available to ensure your safety and provide valuable insights into this ancient practice. Family-owned and operated since 1976, Trail Breaker is one of the longest-operating kennels in Alaska. Founded by the late Susan Butcher, a four-time Iditarod champion, and her husband David Monson, a Yukon Quest champion, the kennel has a rich history rooted in the world of dog sledding.

You can also learn about the history and cultural significance of dog sledding from knowledgeable locals who have deep-rooted connections to this traditional mode of transportation. It is an excellent time for all ages and is conveniently located near the Fairbanks airport.

Tags Alaska, Dog Sledding, Fairbanks, history, Mushing, winter tour

Alaskan Huskies Alaskan Tips News

Enjoy The Fall in Fairbanks, Alaska

Post author By Tekla Monson
Post date October 6, 2022

Alaskan husky dogs playing in Fairbanks Alaska Fall changing leaves.

The Seasons Are Changing At Trail Breaker Kennel

We are ready to usher in the Fall here in Fairbanks! As we have wrapped up our 2022 Summer season, we wanted to send out a big “Thank you!” to all our fantastic guests who have visited us this summer. It’s been so lovely to welcome people back to the kennel from all over the United States and beyond this season, and we’ve had many great moments with all of our visitors. We also appreciate all of the 5-star reviews!

During the summer, our guests have learned about the history of dog mushing and Trail Breaker Kennel. We taught how to dress for cold and dark winter runs with the sled, how we train husky puppies from day one, and MUCH more! Our Alaskan guides shared fun stories from their adventures (and misadventures) on the sled and answered many good questions regarding the ‘dog sled’ racing lifestyle and our world of dog mushing and Alaskan Huskies We are leaving the season with unforgettable memories and inspiration to make this coming winter yet another successful one for the whole Trail Breaker crew!

Create A Lasting Connection With An Alaskan Husky

We have quite a few guests who return to the kennel from as far as Florida or overseas for tours with us in Alaska. Sharon and her husband Kurt are two return visitors who have been to Trail Breaker Kennel multiple times. They have said they have enjoyed coming in different seasons. And, sometimes, extra unique connections are made with these repeat visits.

A lovely Floria couple first met Havak as a puppy and fell in love with him. They’ve since been back to visit us a few times, both in winter (pictured), and the latest time they met was this summer. Of course, we made sure that they got some extra Havak time (see Havak, Sharon, and our guide Kiana pictured).

They’ve also decided to become Havak’s sponsors, and we’re so excited they’ll have a chance to help support Havak and stay updated on Havak’s season through our sponsor updates. It’s beautiful to have our dogs be cared for and loved by so many people, and we’re lucky to have such fantastic support from you all. Find out more about becoming a dog sponsor.

What To Do In Fairbanks This Fall

The change of season means a change of priorities around Trail Breaker Kennel. The cooler mornings mean we can take the sled dogs out on longer training runs to prepare them for race season. Tekla Butcher-Monson (TBK General Manager and Race Musher) has already started the process of putting miles on the Varsity and JV race teams!

TBK Tour Guide, Katrina Handler, has been spending time working with the rest of the kennel, getting them ready for adventures and expeditions this winter. As the miles are still relatively short, Tekla and Katrina have opened their training runs up to Fairbanks guests for the Fall season. You can book your autumn “SLED DOG CART RIDE” to see what it’s like to run dogs or have a sled dog experience in Alaska before there is snow on the ground.

In preparation for the snow flying and longer miles, some of the

TBK crew headed out to our remote training camp in Eureka, AK (150 miles north of Fairbanks) to prepare for November, when Tekla and the dog racing team will head out for a month to train for the racing season. The training camp in Eureka is the same remote training camp that Susan Butcher used to train at years ago. The Trail Breaker Kennel guides and a few Alaskan Huskies enjoyed the weekend raking, brush cutting, chopping wood, and picking berries (pictured).

Support Us This Season at TBK

As we head into the winter/race season, many people have asked us how they can help support the Trail Breaker team! First of all, if you can, come and visit us in Fairbanks and book a fall or winter tour with us. We are also happy to announce that our Race Dog Sponsorships are open for the 2022/23 race season! You can also sign up for our newsletter to get information about updates, race season, sponsorship, and more!

Sponsorships are so important to sled dog racing because they allow us to give our beloved huskies the best care possible to stay happy and healthy while doing what they love. Tekla and the dogs plan to run 2 mid-distance races this winter and are so excited to bring sponsors along on the journey as part of the team. Learn how to become a sponsor today!

Tags Alaska, Alaskan Huskies, autumn, Fairbanks, fall, fall tour, Trail Breaker Kennel

Alaskan Huskies News

Welcoming 2022 In Fairbanks, Alaska

Post author By Trail Breaker Kennel
Post date January 4, 2022

2022 has arrived and winter is in full swing here in Fairbanks, Alaska. With the temperature dipping below negative 40, our days have been spent keeping the dogs happy and doing our best to stay warm. Our evenings have been spent huddled by the fire, sewing dog jackets, booties, harnesses, and any other gear that might be in need of repair. The work doesn’t stop, even at 40 below. This weather has been great for preparing us for the upcoming race season, which is fast approaching and expected to be a cold one.

Dog Teams Training In The White Mountains

Our team will be competing in their first race starting on January 8th, the Copper Basin 300. Being so early in the season, the team could be up against some pretty cold temperatures and tough trail conditions. In order to prepare for that, we need to be equipped with the best gear for ourselves and the dogs. Staying warm can be tricky business up north. Some of the dog’s high quality everyday gear includes dog jackets, booties, harnesses, high calorie food, meat snacks, fat snacks, and much more. Our dogs are high performance athletes, and they get treated as such! While the mushers aren’t quite as high performance, it can still be a chore keeping ourselves warm. We don’t have the nice, thick coats that the dogs do so we depend on high quality gear made specifically for these temperatures and conditions.

Mushers Working Hard

(and taking some breaks to eat pie)

As you know, we’ve been teasing some exciting new changes here recently, and we’re thrilled to say they are finally here! From the comfort of your home, you can keep up to date with our teams and information on their races as we head into 2022. Head to our website and click here or on the Racing tab for details on our mushers Tekla Butcher-Monson and Kiana Korta, which races they’re training for, and information on how you can sponsor the kennel and their teams!

Alaskan Husky Puppy Update

Our Fairbanks’ Puppy Litter is officially grown! On November 13, the youngest members of our crew, including Cushman (pictured), turned one year old! This year, these guys will be participating in some fun runs while learning the ropes from their more senior teammates. They’ve still got a couple of years before they are on the race team, but they are more than excited to participate in tours and short runs. They still have more energy than they know what to do with. Some things never change!

Get To Know Our Mushers & Sled Dogs

You can also meet the huskies of Trail Breaker Kennel! To do so, head to the Our Huskies tab for information on each dog and amusing descriptions of their unique and special personalities. Just like us humans, no husky is the same! You can even sponsor your favorite member of our team (or even the one you think is cutest!)

We wanted to make it easy for you and all those who have supported us through the years to follow along and get to know our team a little better. Of course, many of you know Susan’s story, but now you can follow along as her legacy in the mushing world continues through her eldest daughter Tekla.

We would love for you to visit us and experience the Alaskan Musher lifestyle for a tour in Fairbanks Alaska for a winter or summer tour! We are just a short drive from the Fairbanks airport, and can accommodate the whole family!

Tags Alaskan Huskies, Fairbanks, Fairbanks Alaska, Mushing, Sled Dogs, Susan Butcher, Tekla Monson, Trail Breaker Kennel

Alaskan Huskies

What Breed Is An Alaskan Husky Sled Dog?

Post author By Trail Breaker Kennel
Post date December 15, 2021

What Breed Is An Alaskan Husky Sled Dog?

We often get asked, what makes a dog a sled dog? And, what exactly is an Alaskan Husky? Many also remark that the dogs that take them on their Alaskan sled ride look a lot like a dog they’ve seen before. We will give you some basic information on what makes the Alaskan Huskies unique. And how sled dogs are an exciting part of Alaskan history.

Alaskan Husky History In The Making (Or Mushing)

The ancestors of the many of the sled dogs that live today in Fairbanks, Alaska, were Alaskan village dogs. These village dogs lived with native people thousands of years ago as hunting companions and pack animals. These Alaskan native dogs were known for their double hair coat and rugged feet. But, most importantly, they could withstand the challenging arctic conditions with a great attitude.

When European settlers made their way to Alaska, they learned that horses could not live and work well in the freezing temperatures. It’s not easy to trudge through the snow with long knobby legs and short hair. So the native Alaskan dog became highly sought after as the main form of transportation for generations.

During the Alaskan or Klondike Gold Rush, an estimated 100,000 prospectors made their way to western Canada and Alaska. This migration increased the popularity of the native Alaskan dog as transportation. There was so much demand for dogs that people assembled sled dog teams of whatever large working dogs they could find.

Today, Alaskan huskies are long-distance endurance athletes. They embody all the adventure hard work and loyalty of their ancestors

Purely Bred For Purpose, Not Purebred Dogs

According to the American Kennel Club, the Alaskan Husky is not a purebred, let alone a recognized dog breed. Instead, huskies are defined by their purpose: for use as an athlete sled dog. So we are breeding Alaskan Huskies for their abilities that make them great at what they do. It’s likely that all working dogs were bred for specific purposes.

Of course, for the Alaskan Husky, no one came along to say this dog is everything it needs to be in look and size like other working dogs. Our Alaskan Huskies are still evolving, and are bred for what matters most to dog mushers today.

For An Alaskan Husky, It’s What You Can’t See

You may think an Alaskan Husky Sled Dog should look like a Siberian or the Malamute. While you can see some similarities to these purebred dogs, there will be many different variations in an Alaskan Husky. When assembling our sled dog teams, we look for qualities that are not always evident in appearance alone.

Some Qualities We Look For In Our Alaskan Huskies:

Strong pack instinct because they must work closely with people and other dogs.
Great Personality
Fur coat can be short to medium length, with a very heavy undercoat for cold weather because temperatures here can drop as low as 80 degrees below freezing (-62.2°C)
Highly Trainable
Loads of energy for running long distances
A healthy dog with a healthy appetite

At Trail Breaker, we breed our dogs for what is on the inside. That’s why we get a lot of diversity on the outside.

Ask An Alaskan Husky Training Expert

This is just a taste of what you can learn at Trail Breaker Kennel in Fairbanks, Alaska. It’s an easy trip from the Fairbanks, AK Airport! We are here to help you experience the Alaskan Musher life with its rich history. Contact Us or Book your visit today!

Tags Alaska, Alaskan Huskies, alaskan husky, Alaskan Husky Breed, dog breed, Dog Sled ride, sled dog, Trail Breaker Kennel

Alaskan Huskies News Trail Breaker History

Our Time In Eureka, Alaska

Post author By Trail Breaker Kennel
Post date December 6, 2021

Our Time In Eureka, Alaska

As winter approaches, we are filled with gratitude as we prepare for the season ahead. The entire kennel, puppies to retirees, are out in Eureka, Alaska until December. For those unfamiliar with Trail Breaker history, Eureka is the community roughly four hours north of Fairbanks where kennel founders Susan Butcher and David Monson began their racing journey. In the early 1900s, Eureka was a significant mining town, so there are many small, run-down miners’ cabins and equipment that have been left out over the years. Susan’s original homestead consisted of a small living cabin and an old blacksmith shop where they made wheelbarrows and horseshoes for the sourdoughs in the area.

Our Eureka, Alaska Homestead

Today, the property is home to a barn, three cabins, a workshop, and, of course, a dog yard. The area is full of old mining roads that have become great trails and training routes for the mushers who live out there today. The history that is embedded in those trails is felt on every run. Both musher and husky can feel the energy of all of the mushers, including Susan and David, who trained on them in the past. It’s on these trails that we will get our team race-ready and get a break from city-living!

Training For Race Season In Alaska

With the exciting prospect of the race season ahead, the race team will be exploring the trails around the homestead and putting on the miles. The team is currently running 15-20 miles a day, and we will slowly build until they are doing 50 or more miles at a time. There is still much anticipation hanging on the first significant snowfall. We wait eagerly for it to come, but we will stick with ATV training until it does. Whether we train on sleds or ATV, we are having fun and learning just the same. As our machines are not made to start in the winter, it can be a chore keeping our ATVs running, but it just adds to the adventure of life in rural Alaska.

While the mushers and race dogs are hard at work, the retirees and puppy team will be having nothing but fun. Eureka’s trails are perfect for puppy teams because they are introduced to many different obstacles. They’ll learn how to eagerly take on hills, push through windy conditions, battle snowdrifts, and many other conditions they may not encounter in the heart of Fairbanks. The Eureka homestead has been crucial in preparing our team for all conditions, getting the mushers comfortable to train in remote settings, and providing a unique bonding experience between musher and dog.

Want To Know More About Trail Breaker Kennel?

We are so thankful to train from a place like the Eureka homestead, and we are thankful for all of you who make it possible. Later this month, we will be releasing some exciting news that will allow you to learn more about each of our huskies and mushers, so stay tuned! Contact us today if you would like to receive Trail Breaker’s newsletter directly to your email!

Are you ready for a once in a lifetime experience with Alaskan Huskies?

We have tours available for Alaskan dog sledding and more!

BOOK NOW!

Tags Alaska, Huskies