Lead Sled Dog Iditarod Starting Point Alaska USA

At the starting point for the Iditarod in Alaska, USA, the lead sled dog is anxious to begin his journey, something he has spent months being trained for.

The sled dog teams have been harnessed at the starting point for the Iditarod in Alaska, USA and the lead sled dog is fairly anxious to begin. Spectators stand by, the musher ensures their sled dogs are properly secured and prepared and all equipment needed for the next 10 or so days while racing in the Iditarod is intact.

The lead dog has an important job as he will steer the rest of the team and set the pace for his teammates. At one time, there was only one lead dog per each sled dog team but today, most of those who race in the Iditarod have two lead dogs.

A lead dog must be able to show initiative, be highly intelligent, have a great deal of common sense, follow strict commands and be able to seek out the right trail in the worst conditions possible. A lead dog will usually show signs of its success during its puppy years and mushers can get a good handle on which one of its dogs will become the lead dog.

USA, Alaska, Sled dogs leaps in harness while waiting for start of 2005 Iditarod sled dog race.

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Photo Title: Lead Sled Dog Iditarod Starting Point Alaska USA

At the starting point for the Iditarod in Alaska, USA, the lead sled dog is anxious to begin his journey, something he has spent months being trained for.