Best of Friends

I have mentioned several times that my dogs get into fights. Just like humans, they have moments of anger and they tend to snap out at their running partners. However, there is another side that I have yet to discuss. There is a deep bond between the sled dogs, a serious friendship.
These dogs run next to each other, relying on support, warmth, and trust. Not only do the team dogs have to trust their leaders to take them in the right direction, but the leaders have to trust in the team dogs to work hard and stay in line. Without trust, these dogs could be stranded in sub-zero temperatures with a useless human to pull. This trust has given the team a strong sense of camaraderie. They may still lash out, but that is usually because their partner is not doing what they're supposed to. The rest of the time, the dogs grumble or lean against each other.
On the line, you can tell who is especially close.  Spur is a complete cuddler. During a run, he will lick and nuzzle his partner. He is constantly offering affection and support. This affection progresses even more with a young, inexperienced dog; Spur licks them every time they do something right. Oly, his usual partner now, seems to pull harder every time Spur encourages him with a kiss.

Spur

Off the line, the dogs are placed according to their best buds. It just makes more sense to place friends next to each other. The obvious pairing is Zion and Attla. They are not related, nor do they run on the line together; but, they are the best of friends. After breakfast, I usually hear them wrestling and playing with one another. A harsh growl has never been uttered between them.

Attla wants Zion to play

Friends like these abound in the kennel: Rincon and Hudson, Fury and Colfax, Oly and Spit, Sasha and Luma. They love each other.  These dogs may be "man's best friend" at times, but the rest of the time, they are there for the team.