DEAR READERS: Living in Minnesota, where we usually have plenty of snow (but certainly not during this climate-changed winter), a popular outdoor recreational activity is to ride on a sled pulled by a team of happy, healthy dogs. I have seen their joy! But these two news items confirm what I have long advocated for: an end to competitive dog-sled racing.
First up: A study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that 51.3% of dogs competing in the Yukon Quest dog-sled race from 2018 to 2020 had at least one health abnormality in their veterinary reports, and nearly one-third were dropped from the race due to injuries or other health problems. One-third of the dogs sustained orthopedic injuries, and some had signs of gastrointestinal or cardiorespiratory illness. (Full study: "Evaluating injuries and illnesses that occurred during the Yukon Quest International sled dog race," J.C. Hattendorf, et al, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, February 2024)
Second: Five dogs died while training for this year’s Iditarod, and three others died during the race. Necropsies are under way on the dogs that died during the race, two of which were on teams led by rookie mushers. The other was on a team led by a musher in his second Iditarod. (Full story: Associated Press, March 14)
Running and racing dogs, like most human runners, experience an endorphin and cannabinoid "high" with the physical exertion. This can push them to death when they have a cardiac or metabolic issue, or seriously injure them. In many instances, it is likely that dogs who sustain a serious joint or limb injury had some prior injury or malformation from poor nutrition, breeding and care.
We owe these dogs, some of whom are famed for their roles in rescue missions, a reprieve. We must stop the competitive (and lucrative) dog-sled racing racket forever.
DEAR DR. FOX: I’m having trouble with my 2-year-old Patterdale terrier/Chihuahua mix, whom I adopted from a shelter six months ago. In general, he is a sweet, well-behaved dog, but he’s usually around only women. Around male visitors, he becomes aggressive and unpredictable. Recently, he spent about 15 minutes affectionately cuddling with a male visitor before suddenly biting him hard enough to leave a mark.
I would like to take him to a trainer, but I am having trouble finding an experienced one who does not want to keep him overnight. I am doing my best to learn from trainers online, but there is quite a bit of conflicting advice.
Do you have any suggestions? Are there any dog behaviorists you recommend? Do you know how to find a good trainer who will work with owners? -- M.F., Cortland, New York
DEAR M.F.: My late wife, Deanna Krantz, had a rescued dog named Friday who would bite any hand that was slowly extended toward him. Everyone was warned and learned to accept this neurotic, fear-based behavior. This is probably the best approach for you to take: acceptance, and warnings for any male visitors.
Many dogs become attached to their female owners. If there is limited socialization with the opposite sex, and little chance to become accustomed to their different scents/pheromones, these dogs may feel their bond is threatened and show aggressive behavior toward men.
Jealousy is a consideration, too. My dog Kota is not aggressive, but pushes between me and any other dog I meet and greet.
There are certified animal behaviorists with whom you may wish to consult if your veterinarian has no referrals to offer. For details, write to: caab@animalbehaviorsociety.org.
If you have an understanding male friend, I advise trying to desensitize and habituate your dog. Have your friend walk the dog on the leash with you on the side. Train the dog to sit and stay, and have the man give him a treat intermittently. When at home, have your friend groom your dog and encourage the dog to play, catching or chasing a ball or squeaky toy. But do not overstimulate/overexcite him!
Gradually, your dog should accept this male presence in his life and, from that point, generalize to accept other male visitors. I would advise against such visitors holding and cuddling the dog, at least for now. Let the dog have his own space and he will find his place in the nexus of your social life.
(Send all mail to animaldocfox@gmail.com or to Dr. Michael Fox in care of Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106. The volume of mail received prohibits personal replies, but questions and comments of general interest will be discussed in future columns.
Visit Dr. Fox’s website at DrFoxOneHealth.com.)