There are a number of *sleddog traits* or special characteristics that set the purpose-bred working sleddog apart from the average dog. Any serious breeding programme should monitor these traits. In the case of the Seppala Siberian Sleddog it is not so much a question of having to select strongly for "the traits that matter" as it is of simply making sure that what is already there is not lost through careless breeding. Too much emphasis placed on a single characteristic may cause degradation of other characteristics that are not being monitored. It is not just a matter of speed and endurance only.

The SSSD Project has identified a group of twenty characteristics, all of which are important in one way or another to the working sleddog. These are outlined in the Project document "The Traits that Matter" and these traits are routinely monitored in Project stock. Characteristics such as energy metabolism, seriousness and good gait or movement are just as important in Seppalas (and other sleddogs) as speed and endurance. Among those traits, Seppalas are well known for

having great trainability and docility. This remain indispensable especially when we want more from the dogs than running a straight line and coming back.

Recreationnal mushers will also found themslves pretty pleased with a docile dog that make part of the family space and do multi-activities other than pulling.