Rehabilitating neglected and abused sled dogs can be a long and difficult task, especially if you are trying to acclimate them to an indoor environment. The sights, smells, sounds and textures of your home are completely different than the dog yards that most sled dogs are forced to live in. Please keep in mind - for each of the outlined steps below - it can take anywhere from days, weeks or possibly months before each individual dog is ready to move forward to the following step.

Carpet, linoleum, tile and wood are all completely foreign surfaces that the dogs will have to adjust to walking on. Shiny, hard surfaces have been one of the hardest things for my rescued sled dogs to overcome. The first time most sled dogs enter a house, they are likely to cling to the walls and corners, crawling on their bellies with tails tucked. I allow the this for the first few visits. I ignore the dog and let it simply observe its new environment. From day one, I always have another dog (who the sled dog is already familiar with, and who is used to being in the house) roaming freely so that the sled dog can learn from example.

A crate is also a great tool and can be used initially rather than letting the dog lie in the corner or along the wall. With dogs that are particularly terrified, this can even be a better option. A crate is similar to the dog house environment that the sled dog is used to. Though made of metal bars or plastic and containing soft, fabric bedding - it can still be a little scary. But with all the other sights, sounds and smells - most sled dogs will settle quickly in the crate and begin to calmly observe the world around them.

When the sled dog appears somewhat comfortable with quietly observing, it's time to introduce interaction and try to coax movement. If you are using a crate, simply leave the door open at this point. I start by sitting on the floor, approximately five to eight feet from the dog. I have pungent dog treats, and a couple of toys. I also use the other dog, who is already acclimated to the house. I talk somewhat excitedly, in a higher pitch - the "praise" tone of voice. I give cookies to the house dog as we play with the toys. Watch for interest from the sled dog. Cookies can be tossed close to the sled dog to illicet a response. Most sled dogs have never seen a toy and many are scared of them at first - so avoid throwing the toys. However, if the dog is comfortable enough to crawl closer to you, offering a toy in hand can work. I repeat this type of session many times. Sooner or later, the sled dog will come to you on its own for cookies, toys, and/or interaction.

When you have reached this point, it is time to move about the house more. Have a pouch with cookies with you at all times. And if the sled dog has taken a particular liking to toys, you should utilize those as well. Simply walk to different locations within the house - perhaps take this time to dust or rearrange collectibles on the shelves. Avoid doing anything noisy or sudden. Toss cookies and offer light verbal praise to the sled dog whenever you come close (whether you approached the dog on your route or if the dog is following you). Remember to have your "helper dog" along with you as well. Perhaps practice doing some heeling routines with your spirited little helper. Remember, you're trying to lead by example - you want the sled dog to see both you and the other dog relaxed, comfortable and having fun.