Insights into the species-appropriate care of our sled dogs

Our sled dogs live in two separate kennel areas. This setup has several advantages: it creates a calmer environment for the dogs and makes it much easier for us to keep a close eye on every individual than if all the dogs were housed together in one large kennel.

The "AZ" – Close to Nature in the Forest

Our “Old Kennel” (german: Alter Zwinger – AZ), established in autumn 2003, is idyllically located in the forest behind the staff house and close to our guesthouse. Set on natural forest ground, it is now home to around 40 dogs living in several small, social groups with dogs of different ages.
Each enclosure has weatherproof shelters with soft straw bedding. We have also started raising some of the kennel areas on wooden decking.

During the daily cleaning routine, up to 12 dogs at a time can enjoy the large fenced exercise area, digging to their hearts’ content or, in summer, making use of the direct access to their swimming spot in Lake Nurmijärvi.
The entire area is surrounded by trees, providing our Alaskan Huskies with plenty of shade during the warmer summer months. Homemade obstacles and wooden platforms add variety and offer both physical and mental stimulation.

The "NZ" – Comfort on a Wooden Base

The “New Kennel” (NZ) was built between 2007 and 2011. Today, around 40 dogs live here in nearly 20 separate enclosures. Their shelters are fully winterproof, and every dog has a warm bed of straw.
The New Kennel is built on wooden flooring and also has a large fenced exercise area with direct access to the dogs’ swimming spot in Lake Nurmijärvi. During the daily cleaning routine, the dogs take turns enjoying the exercise area in groups or cooling off in the lake.

Our wooden “adventure playground” is especially popular with the younger dogs. This structure in the exercise area features ramps, steps and raised platforms for climbing and exploring.
Majestic trees, some more than 100 years old, provide natural shade. Where needed, we also add parasols or camouflage netting to keep the enclosures cool and protected from the sun.

Special Areas for Special Needs

Outside both kennel areas, we have several additional enclosures raised on wooden beams, which usually remain empty. These are used for sick or injured dogs, allowing us quick and easy access for medical care. Our females in heat also stay in these quieter areas to reduce stress and avoid unnecessary excitement among the males.
Both kennels also have a dedicated puppy area with its own exercise space. In addition, there are covered enclosures beside each of our two staff houses for dogs requiring closer medical attention. Dogs that need especially intensive care will usually stay inside the staff houses with us.

Lerne hier unsere tollen Hunde kennen.