There has likely always been a casual sport aspect to dog sledding, but the first formal race occurred in 1850. In 1908, the first dog-sled race took place in Nome, Alaska.

How long has dog sledding been around?

The practice of using dogs to pull sleds dates back to at least 6000 BC. Remnants of dog sleds and harnesses has been found with dog remains in Siberia which carbon-dated to 7800-8000 years ago. Native American cultures also used dogs to pull loads.

When did dog sledding become a sport?

Sled dog racing began as a formal sport in 1908 with the first "All-Alaska Sweepstakes Race." In the early days, competitive racing provided a good diversion to the difficult living conditions of the northern climates, Though airplanes began replacing sled dog teams for transportation, freight hauling and mail delivery ...