The feeding of Dutch sled dogs in training

To evaluate the diet of Dutch sled dogs, we investigated the dietary history of the dogs of 5 mushers. The animals were offered a commercial dry diet supplemented with a protein-rich product, a fat-rich product, and/or vitamins. At our request, the mushers prepared for 'their average dog' (a 20-kg Siberian husky) a daily ration of which the composition was calculated and chemically analysed. The calculated energy content of the rations was up to 50% higher than the requirement of the 'average dog' for maintenance. The composition of the rations was adequate from a nutritional viewpoint. However, the distribution of energy between macronutrients was not optimal in terms of the physiology of extreme endurance running: the rations had a relatively low fat content and a high content of carbohydrates.