Archaeology of the Dog Sled

Archaeology sheds light on human history through the examination of material and intangible remains. It explores human living conditions, adaptation to changing environments, occupations, social life, art, and religion, and strives to understand all aspects of past human existence.

Archaeological findings indicate that the Thule, Dorset, and Saqqaq cultures all brought dogs with them during their migrations to Greenland. Research by Tatiana Feuerborn on sled dog DNA reveals a 4,500-year relationship between dogs and the Greenland sled dog, making it one of the oldest dog breeds globally. Feuerborn's research also shows that Thule culture dogs were genetically distinct from earlier North American Arctic dogs, being specialized and crucial for Inuit mobility and hunting success, thereby supporting Arctic societies.

However, archaeological finds of sled parts and dog bones alone do not definitively prove past dog sled use. To identify an actual sled dog “culture”, evidence of interaction among three elements is necessary: dogs, sleds, and equipment. This precaution is essential because dogs may have been used for other purposes, requiring careful interpretation of individual finds.

Therefore, a comprehensive assessment across three categories is needed to confirm the presence of a sled dog culture:

1. Sleds: Physical remains of transport tools.
2. Dog equipment: Objects like harnesses and steering tools directly used for attaching and harnessing dogs for sled driving.
3. Dog presence and physical remains: Dog bones, feces, hair, fur, or DNA traces.

Read more about the oldest known sled find here.

Beyond transport and hunting, archaeological sources and historical accounts suggest that dog meat was consumed, most often during times of famine. Archaeological findings also point to the sustainable use of dog skin and bones. The fur, being beautiful and warm, was used for clothing items such as trousers, annoaraaq, mittens, fur collars, and hats. Today, it is used for mittens and as part of the National dress. See here.