PULLING more than three times their body weight, the Howling Huskies put on an impressive performance at the Mount Gambier A&H Society Spring Show as they took part for the first time this year.
The team of six dogs – all rescued from shelters – showcased their strength, determination and intelligence by pulling a 400kg buggy along the ground, howling in excitement as they crossed the finish line.
Taking the dogs from a life of mistreatment and unhappiness, owner Jake Greaves said they have a lot of fun showing off to crowds across the country.
“They are very smart dogs and pick things up very quickly, so we are constantly teaching them other tricks,” he said.
“But they do have an instinct to pull, so that part of it doesn’t take too much training.”
With a total of 56 dogs on his property in Swifts Creek, which is around a one hour drive from Mount Hotham, Mr Greaves said they choose the strongest dogs to lead the pack.
“We rescued our malamute Tatonka just over a year ago and although he isn’t the smartest of the lot, he is very strong,” he said.
“Then there is one of our smaller huskies who when we got him had no fur over the top of his nose from wearing a muzzle all the time.
“He was mistreated and was scared of anyone, but now you can wave your hand in front of his face and he doesn’t do anything – he is a very smart dog.”
The Howling Huskies put on a number of shows over the course of the two days with attendees also able to meet and pat the six talented dogs.
