Sibes as Sled-Dogs - Sibes.Org Article

Sleddogs are not driven by reins but by the spoken word. Therefore it is crucial that the lead dog understands everything the musher says and leads the rest of the team accordingly.

The relationship between musher and sled-dog is a bond that is one of the oldest of its kind. Some mushers seem to have a psychic connection to their lead dog. Sometimes you will hear a musher having a lengthy conversation with his lead dog.

Here are some of the terms used by mushers:

Musher: A person who drives a sled and dog(s) for fun or competition.

Mush: To go or travel over snow with a dog team and sled.

Dog Sled: A sled on runners pulled by a dog team.

Dog Box: A box on the back of a truck or trailer with several compartments used for transporting the dogs.

Brake: a metal piece with two or three prongs found on the sled. It is used for stopping the team.

Handler: A person who helps a musher take care of the sled-dogs.

Gee: The command to get the dogs to turn right.

Haw: The command to get the dogs to turn left.

Hike, OK or Let's Go: The command for go.

On By: The command to pass another team of sled-dogs.

Pedaling or Kicking: When a driver keeps one foot on a runner and pushes with the other.

Whoa: The command to stop.

Stake Out Chain: A long chain, attached to a stake, that can be driven into the ground. It is used to secure dogs while away from home.

Here is a great link to a movie on how to properly apply booties and harnesses to your Sibe. http://www.dogsled.com/101/