Equipment & Gear
Equipment we use with our Alaskan Malamutes
As a working breed, the Alaskan Malamute thrives when given both physical and mental challenges.
To honor the breed’s heritage and give our dogs meaningful tasks, we use a variety of equipment designed for pulling, training, and exploring together throughout the seasons.
Here’s an overview of the gear we use.
Dog Sled
During the snowy winter months, we use traditional dog sleds for longer runs and team work.
This is the most iconic way to work Malamutes and gives them the opportunity to pull as part of a group, just as they were originally bred to do.
Pulk/Nordic Sledding
For solo or skijoring-style outings, we often use a pulk – a lightweight sled attached behind a skier.
It allows one or two dogs to pull loads over snow-covered trails while the handler skis behind.
It’s an excellent way to train dogs for endurance and coordination.
Backpack
Training Wagon (4-Wheel Cart)
When the snow is gone but the temperatures are still cool, we train the dogs in front of a wagon – a four-wheeled dryland cart.
It simulates sledding on dirt trails and allows team training before the winter season begins.
Kickbike
A kickbike is another fun and practical way to work one or two dogs in harness during snow-free months.
The dog pulls the rider on a sturdy scooter frame with fat tires, offering both speed and resistance training.
We Train with the Seasons – in Respect of the Breed
At Kennel Malamazing, we adapt all our training and activity plans to the seasons, the weather, the terrain, and—most importantly—the condition and needs of each individual dog. Our philosophy is rooted in the breed’s heritage: the Alaskan Malamute was made to work, not to stand still. Whether it’s snow-covered mountain trails in winter, muddy spring paths, or autumn hikes with backpacks, we give our dogs meaningful tasks that challenge both body and mind.
We don’t see training simply as exercise, but as a tool to build a stronger bond between dog and handler, to develop confidence in the individual dog, and to honor the working drive that defines the breed. Our dogs aren’t just tagging along—they are participating. They pull sleds, train in teams, carry packs, run in harness, and lead us from the front. And they love it.
For us, it’s not about speed or competition. It’s about giving the Malamute a lifestyle that respects its nature. A Malamute with a job to do is a balanced, fulfilled, and truly happy dog—and that’s exactly the life we strive to give our dogs, all year round.
Harnesses – Nome and Combined
We use two main types of harnesses:
Nome harness (X-back): A traditional, long pulling harness designed for sled and kickbike work. It distributes force evenly over the dog’s body.
Combined harness (short harness): A versatile harness often used for pulk or single-dog pulling where more control is needed. It’s especially useful for skijoring and steep terrain.
The dog in focus
All of our gear is chosen with care to ensure the dog’s comfort, safety, and working efficiency. Whether it’s pulling a sled through snow or carrying a backpack in the mountains, each activity contributes to the dog's physical conditioning and mental well-being.
We believe that a working Malamute is a happy Malamute – and good equipment helps make the experience enjoyable for both dog and handler.