About Us

David Straub, owner of Alaskan Sled Dogs, is an Iditarod veteran of the 2000, 2001 and 2002 races

David set a record for being the fastest “red lantern” in the 2002 race with a time of 14 days and five hours. Although the “red lantern” goes to the last musher to complete the race, there were 20 other mushers who did not finish out of 75 that year.

In the Iditarod, the “red lantern” stands for perseverance and the fortitude of spirit to never give up. The race is run every year in memory of the serum run of 1925 which saved the children of Nome, Alaska, from diphtheria.

“If you’re going to start something, you should at least attempt to finish it, even if it does get tough.”
-David Straub

David started out as an obedience and conformation trainer and Samoyed breeder in Kansas City. It wasn’t until 1996 that David moved to Alaska to pursue his 25 year dream to participate in the Iditarod. Around the same time, he also began offering sled dog rides so that others could experience the thrill of being out in the tranquility of nature with man’s best friend.

Today, David still offers sled dog rides to locals and visitors in order to share the experience of following the call of the wild and being out on the trail with the dogs and their indomitable love for the run.

To see more information on our sled dog rides, click here, or contact us to schedule a ride or with any questions.