RE: The Blacksmith’s Forge – Ink drawing, A5 format – unfinished version.
Every living creature—whether a horse, a donkey, a dog, or a human—has specific physiological traits that must be taken into account when it comes to physical exertion, both short-term and prolonged.
While no one is immune to injuries like torn ligaments or spinal hernias, certain breeds of horses and dogs have been selectively bred to handle specific types of physical strain.
In reality, the Husky is the only true sled dog breed. Beyond their inherent strength and endurance, they are equipped with a thick coat designed for the Far North, where they thrive. In warmer climates, however, living and working becomes difficult—not impossible, perhaps, but certainly painful for the dogs, as they are prone to heat rash and fungal infections.
Furthermore, one must consider their dietary needs. As the saying goes, "those who work, must eat!" Huskies require a substantial amount of food—specifically meat and fish.
A sled team consists of several dogs, and feeding them requires virtually unlimited access to fish and game—the kind of resources found in the taiga wilderness.
Maintaining a pack of Huskies in Europe would be prohibitively expensive, even for someone who owns a large garage full of premium cars. After all, cars in a garage don’t consume fuel, but Huskies need to be fed—every single day, and right on time! :)
And if this is intended merely as a form of entertainment, I don’t believe it’s right to subject a dog to such hardship; you’d be better off buying your child a bicycle instead. :)