Seppala Siberian Sleddog

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Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Seppala Siberian Sleddog is a medium size, rare working breed originating in Canada. Developed by Leonhard Seppala, this breed has always been bred for its working abilities and not for show types. It was once considered same breed as Siberian Husky but was later separated and bred as exclusive working dogs.

This medium size breed that stands between 22-23 inches and weighs about 40-50 lbs, is commonly used as sled dogs. Though the breed shares common ancestral base with Siberian Husky, these dogs markedly differ from their cousins in size and appearance. Compared to Siberian Husky, the Seppala dogs have longer legs and bodies and lighter weight and built. This breed comes with medium length, dense, smooth coat with a soft and longish undercoat. Erect and taller ears are set close together. These dogs are commonly found in pure white or buff and white. Less common are very dark, black or charcoal grey with dark faces. Though the dogs may appear to be of lighter built for such heavy work as sled pulling, this breed is actually far more stronger than it looks. For their extremely smooth and well-coordinated gait and for the consistency and strength with which they pull in harness, these dogs are far more efficient pullers than some larger northern breeds.

Color

The Seppala Siberian Sleddog is found in different colours that include pure white, buff, buff and white, black, charcoal gray, gray, brownish gray, and blue-gray, sable (reds with black-tipped guard hairs and black noses). Piebald spotting and agouti (wild type) coloration are common. Some have dark faces with white only on the feet and tips of the tail.

Coat

This breed sports a double coat. Outer coat is medium length, dense and smooth while undercoat is soft and almost as long as outer coat. This type of coating is necessary to protect these dogs from weather extremes.

Personality

The Seppala dogs have even temperament, are serious about their work and have active, merry and inquisitive disposition. These dogs have highly developed work ethics, affectionate, cooperative and highly bonded nature. They are easiest to train of all the sled dogs with their docile and highly cooperative nature. These intelligent dogs thrive on human companionship and bond strongly with their master. These dogs are reserved around strangers but never aggressive or shy. They make excellent working and companion dogs.

Care

The coat of Seppalas needs brushing with a firm bristle brush. This breed sheds heavily twice a year and daily brushing will be needed at those times.

Training

This breed is one of the most easiest of sled dog breeds in terms of training. These intelligent dogs, together with their cooperative nature, are easily trainable but they do need a firm and confident owner.

Activity

Sled dogs have high energy levels and high exercise demands. The Seppalas will need lots of physical stimulation to be happy and fit.