Seppala Siberian Sleddog Dog Breed

Below are the details and facts for the Seppala Siberian Sleddog breed.

This breed is considered medium size. Adults generally weight 40 - 50 pounds and stand around 22 - 23 inches tall. Though smaller than other sled dog breeds, the Seppala is a tenacious worker who can pull more efficiently than some of its larger relatives.

Highly affectionate and hard-working, the Seppala is a jovial dog who thrives when given a job, though they can be great companions as well. They form close bonds with their human masters and other dogs, though they may treat smaller pets as prey. Socialization from a young age is mandatory.

These are high maintenance dogs. They require a fair amount of brushing and their heavy-shedding coat will certainly prompt frequent use of the vacuum. Exercise needs are high and can result in poor behavior if ignored.

This breed was created by Leonhard Seppala in the early 1900’s, who started breeding Siberian Huskies purely for working traits. As time went on, the Siberian Husky line was bred more and more for show purposes, while the Seppala was kept almost exclusively for pulling. Due to such factors as the limited number of kennels breeding this special dog, World War II, and controversies surrounding the definition of the breed, Seppalas have nearly gone extinct on a few occasions. In 1997 the breed was finally given legitimate status by Canadian agriculture authorities and is now considered an evolving breed. Though still rare, Seppalas have been showing up in the USA in increasing numbers in the last two decades.

Seppalas do bear a basic resemblance to their close relative, the Siberian Husky, but due to their history as pure working dogs (as opposed to show dogs) the breed retains a more wolfish appearance. Compared to the Husky, these dogs are scrawny and long-legged, and have longer bodies. The coat is dense and double layered, which allows the dog to stay warm in arctic temperatures. The muzzle is long and the ears are pointy and erect. Tails are carried down or, when the dog is excited, held up in a curved, “sickle” shape. Eyes can be dark brown or an icy blue.

Seppala Siberian Sled Dogs are top class working dogs, but have a friendly disposition that makes them great companions for the right owner. These dogs are easy to train and form a strong bond with their owner and other dogs they live with. They can be quite affectionate and are very willing to please - when given a task they will pursue it with every ounce of effort. It should be noted, however, that these dogs may act out if left alone for too long, especially if they have not been exercised thoroughly. Though these dogs should not be overly shy or aggressive, they can be somewhat timid around people they do not know. Seppalas require an owner who can establish him or herself as pack leader, and has enough time to spend exercising and nurturing this dog. But given the right owner, this breed is a companion and worker second to none.

This is considered a healthy, robust breed, though they are prone to allergies, eye problems, and cancer. A well cared for Seppala Siberian Sled dog has a life expectancy of 12 - 16 years.