Each dog can have up to 3 sponsors, or 1 exclusive sponsor
Lynx is one of our top Iditarod performers, with multiple finishes on her resume. She is a dependable, easy going girl with a great coat, fabulous appetite, and the ability to get along with everyone. In a team of mostly males, Lynx shines as something really special. This season she'll be joined in racing by her children - Maxine, Ester, Lilah and Johnny. Sponsored by Jenn K of IN. Lynx can have two more sponsors!
Marley is a twin in many ways to his brother, Dylan. The duo finished their first Iditarod at just 2 years old. Marley has a drive, focus and appetite that never fails, and this year he's even stepped into leading for the first time! At home, Marley is a BIG fan of belly rubs. Sponsored by Regina & Haiku of AK; and by Katy & Keith of TX. Marley can have one more sponsor!
Dylan finished his first Iditarod at just under 2 years old! We don't usually take dogs that young on such a long race, but Dylan and his brother Marley are special. Dylan is a born leader with laser focus and tremendous drive. We'd actually like to see Dylan mellow out a little bit, as this big boy's body can't always keep up with his can-do attitude. Sponsored by The Karstensen Family of IN; and by Linda B of MS. Dylan can have one more sponsor!
Marten is among the best dogs in our kennel. Large, powerful, focused and dependable. His stand-out leadership performances include single-leading as a yearling off-trail in the Arctic, and leading for several hundred miles in his rookie Iditarod. Marten is the father to our "Characters." Sponsored by the Woodwell Family of PA; and by Anka R of GA. Marten can have one more sponsor!
Bronn is new to us for the 24-25 race season; purchased from Iditarod champion Brent Sass. There is lot that we still need to learn about Bronn. These are things we have figured out so far: 2 year old intact male, sweet and mild-mannered, long shaggy coat. Siblings with Stannis and Cersei. We're looking forward to spending some serious trail time with this guy! Bronn is sponsored by Heavy Lift Home Gym in VA; and by Doug & Arlene in WA. Bronn can have 1 more sponsor!
Bjorn is just an all-around great dog. He eats, he pulls, he leads, he's nice to other dogs, and he always tries his hardest. Bjorn is an important member of our core racing team, with many race finishes to his name so far. Sponsored by Manuel S. of CA; and by Beverly G of NC. Bjorn can have one more sponsor!
Forty was once known as the "Energizer Bunny" on our race team. He always seemed to have more pep than anyone else. Now one of the elders on the team, and slowing down a bit, Forty is still one of the best dogs in the yard, with many Iditarods behind him. Does Forty have another finish in him this year? Father to Dylan, Marley and Natalie. Sponsored by The Karstensen Family of ND; and by Chyrisse & Tim of ND. Forty can have one more sponsor!
Yentna is another of the few females on our Iditarod team, with 3 finishes in her still-young career. In 2022 she led our team through some of the most challenging windstorms the trail has ever seen. Perhaps it's no surprise that Yentna prefers training to actually racing, and becomes our "little sourpuss" when the trail gets too long! Yentna will be training for another big race this year, with dreams of an early retirement in the not-too-distance future. Sponsored by John & Claudia of MO; and by Anka R of GA. Yentna can have one more sponsor!
Gatsby would be the jester if our kennel were a medieval court. He's famous among our visitors for his incredible high jumps, and persistent barks that beg you to "pet me, pet me, pet me!" BUT Gatsby is also pretty great on the trail! He's got a beautiful, smooth trot, laser focus, and a stellar attitude. We're excited to have Gatsby in training for his first Iditarod. Sponsored by Jules L of FL; and The Witt Family of WI. Gatsby can have 1 more sponsor!
Einstein is a giant among his siblings, with a big personality to match. As a two year old, this will be Einstein's first season of training for the Iditarod. We're hoping Einstein has got all of the brains to go with his brawn. Einstein is sponsored by The Linn's of CA; and by Peter S of the UK. Einstein can have one more sponsor!
Whoop-Whoop! These Main Race Dogs are fully sponsored!
Knox is one of our most experienced racing dogs, with four Iditarod starts and two finishes. He is an important leader, and has trained up many of our young leaders. Everything about Knox is 100% -- his drive, his energy, his size and his love. A truly excellent dog who makes a huge impact in our team. Exclusively sponsored by Anka R of Richmond Hill, GA.
Braavos is arguably our very best, and most valuable dog. He has finished five Iditarods in five years, and is just seven years old. Big accomplishments for a pretty little dude... Braavos weighs in at barely 50 pounds! He maintains his alpha male status in the kennel by bossing everyone with his bark, and aggressing any dogs who get in his way. No wonder Braavos is usually in lead by himself at the finish line. Braavos is the father of "The Rivers" and "The Literates." Exclusively sponsored by the Berges and the Manjarrezes of Rolla, MO
Qarth. An MVP leader who dominates on a tough trail. The more adverse and slow the conditions are, the harder he drives. Qarth is a three-time Iditarod finisher, and Jeff's favorite. (Ssshhh! Don't tell the others!) Sponsored exclusively by The Linn's of Lancaster, CA
Moose is another kennel Top Dog, with great leadership abilities and many Iditarod finishes. Attitude, appetite, gait, endurance, charisma: This dog has it all. Moose is the father of the "Norwegians." Sponsored by Melissa M of WA; by Jenny & Chuck of GA; and by the Karstensen Family of ND.
Chippewa is "the next big thing," following in the footsteps of his Uncle Qarth and Dad Braavos. Chippewa's big accomplishments for 2022 included finishing his first Iditarod, and single leading off trail on our annual spring Arctic trip. Sponsored exclusively by Julie F of Rice Lake, WI
Kobuk is a long-legged sweetheart, and a serious member of our race team. Kobuk finished the 2022 Iditarod at just under 3 years old, and did it with the grace and ease of a dog much older. Next year's vision for Kobuk: Leading in races! Sponsored exclusively by Jess SG of Farmington, MN
Arthur is a key dog in our core race team. He has finished multiple Iditarods, and has lots more in his future. Arthur is a hard worker, and a beautiful trotter who always does what is asked of him. This tough guy's only weakness is in his soft handling. Arthur can't stand to have his nails trimmed, or get poked by needles. Sponsored by Helene & Ed of MT; by Beverly G of NC; and by the Beaver Family of TX.
The Wolf is another young, but super solid member of our race team. Although he did not finish Iditarod 2022, he was an incredibly focused and diligent worker right up to the moment he was sent home. He has successfully finished every other race he has been in. Sponsored exclusively by Rich and Julie of Redwood City, CA
Oyvind is a steady team member, and probably the kennel's loudest "cheer leader." When we make impromptu stops on the trail to check booties or take a photo, Oyvind will immediately start barking and "harness-banging," making it almost impossible to stay stopped. We hate these poor manners during training, but this "go-get-'em" attitude is a joy to have on a long race. Sponsored exclusively by The Linn's of CA.
Natalie is another small female, and she's got big shoes to fill. Her Mom Spears, and Dad Forty are multi-time Iditarod finishers. In 2022 her brothers Dylan and Marley also finished their first Iditarods at under 2 years old. Natalie has been slower to mature than her brothers, but that's common for female Alaskan Huskies. In the 22-23 season we are expecting big things from this tough girl - including burning up the trail in lead! Natalie is Exclusively Sponsored by Joe L of AK.
Ester "Bunny" is small and mighty! Look for this little rocket up in lead with her brother Johnny or twin sister Maxine. Ester is sure to do big things with us, despite her small size. Exclusively sponsored by Gretchen D. of Fairbanks, AK.
Maxine, AKA "Max Cat," is another small-but-mighty female! Like her twin sister Ester, Maxine is a hard driving, eager worker. She's also one of our kennel's most enthusiastic cheerleaders in harness! Exclusively sponsored by Theresa and Gary of CA.
Lilah is a large female, with a big appetite to match. Throw in a pretty trot with good feet, and we're going places... Sponsored by Gary and Emilie of PA; by Jenn K of IN; by Bev G of GA; and by Dave & Kristi of AL.
Johnny is the best and brightest of his two year old class. Son of Chippewa, grandson of Braavos; Johnny will surely add his name to the list of important race leaders in our kennel. Johnny is sponsored by Doug & Arlene of WA; Anka R of GA; and by Lu & Steve of TN.
Prophet is a real macho man: Crazy about the girls and showing off in front of the boys. Now at over two years old we're looking for more power and less posture... We know it's in there!! Sponsored by Leslie T.S. of TX; Jessica B. of BC, Canada; and by Lu & Steve of TN.
Legend is a real big boy, who so far seems capable beyond his mere two years. He's gentle with visitors - especially with kids - but a real hellion with the other dogs! Legend is a solid team dog, who tries leading once in awhile. We're expecting major things from this guy as he ages. Sponsored exclusively by John and Claudia B. of Rolla, MO.
Tock is a new dog to our kennel, from Iditarod champion Brent Sass. Tock has done many competitive races with Brent, but at 8 years old her retirement days are not too far ahead. We'd love to get one or two more years of racing with Tock, but really, we bought her in the hopes that she would be a mother to some of our future puppies... Either way, we've quickly fallen in love with her youthful, fun and confident personality. She already acts like she's been part of the kennel forever! Tock is sponsored by A. Nicol of MI; by Holly T of AR; and by the Dolan Family of MN.
Cersei is new to us for the 24-25 race season; purchased from Iditarod champion Brent Sass. Each new day we spend with Cersei reveals more of her personality, but at just 2 years old, she's still developing who she really is! Thus far, she has proven to be a gentle, easy going female who gets along with others, and is also confident enough to run in lead. Keep it up, girl! Cersei is exclusively sponsored by A. Rea of GA
Herbert is another new dog we recently bought from Brent Sass. At 3 years old, Herbert already has a bit of racing already under his belt, but so far nothing very competitive. He was a last-minute pick for us from the group of dogs that Brent had available for sale. We just couldn't say no to that beautiful coat and those long legs! Herbert was also sweet and mellow when we first met him at Brent's arctic camp, although that has since changed a bit since coming home to Black Spruce! Uh-oh, Herbert... Good thing you're handsome! Herbert is sponsored by Sheryl B of OR; by John K of CA; and by Anka R of GA
Louis already appears to be a standout among his siblings, despite his young age. Start with the fact he escaped his tether at just 10 months old to become a first time father! Add to that his stellar trot, easy going personality, capacity to love and listen, and this little gent is a true gem. Louis is sponsored by Heavy Lift Home Gym of VA; Max F. of AK; and Chris G. of WA.
Salvador is a wild man. No two ways about it. He may even be classified as a danger to himself and others! But boy, is he a DYNAMO in the team! Dealing with all that crazy energy may just be worth it to have this guy around. Salvador is sponsored by John and Claudia of MO; Dave & Gina of IA; and Stan & Anne of NC.
Capone has always been his own dog. From his unique markings in puppyhood, to his insatiable appetite for play in the dog yard, Capone is immediately recognizable as different. In the team, we're seeing lots of good things - along with all the goofy yearling things :) Capone is exclusively sponsored by Bev G of GA!
Coco is easily our smallest dog, at under 40 pounds. This means she has to work especially hard to impress us, and make our race team. But she's doing it! Coco is always super focused, ever-energetic, and even loves to lead! Coco is sponsored by Melissa of WA; by Deb D of AK; and by Barb & Jay of TX.
Stannis was brought into our kennel in the spring of 2022. He's originally from Brent Sass at Wild and Free. His canine relatives were Iditarod champions in 2022. With a resume like that, of course we're excited about this guy! And he's living up to expectations. Stannis is a natural born leader who is happiest and most comfortable with a harness on. Stannis is sponsored by the Mathew/Burton Family of IN; by Deb S of CO; and by Larry & Lorrie of AK.
The Yearling Squad
Dogs between 1 and 2 years old; not yet Iditarod-ready. Basically puppies in adult bodies!
Each dog can have up to 3 sponsors, or 1 exclusive sponsor
Gamble has always been the underdog in this sibling group. Equal parts clingy and cagey, Gamble really has us guessing about how he's going to turn out! Some days he seems to love being a sled dog, and other days he's not so sure. This season Gamble will work on his confidence, and navigating group dynamics, as well as tackling his first long distance training runs and camping trips. Gamble is sponsored by Jason & Elaine of CA; and by Rich and Julie of PA. Gamble can have one more sponsor!
Kismet is the sweetest and most easy-going among her siblings. But don't let her loving personality fool you. In harness, she is a dynamic performer with a need for speed! Kismet is sponsored by Jim & Noel of TX; by Sue & Kevin of NY; and by The Bourne Family of OR.
Darnit is one of three boys in the "Mistakes" litter, and lands squarely in the middle of the confidence spectrum. Darnit easily makes friends with the adult dogs, and is a solid worker in the team. We expect Darnit to become a mature, easy-going member of our race team someday. Darnit is fully sponsored by John & Claudia of MO; by Bev G of GA; and by The Bandstra Family of BC.
Risk is a top-dog in this group of five yearlings. Already running in lead with super focus and drive, Risk is noteably brave, outgoing, fast, quick-witted, and always up for a good time. Risk is fully sponsored by Tim and Cathi of OR; by Jack F of AK; and by Lori S of AK.
Shucks was the slowest to pick up harness training as a puppy, but now as a yearling he's the best of the bunch! Already running in lead, this man has developed an exuberant confidence that he never had in puppyhood. We're so excited to watch this guy continue to grow up! Shucks is sponsored by Morgan & Caio of AK; by Todd & Tina of WI; and by Rebecca K of CO.
The Puppies
Sponsor a Puppy now, and renew each year as they grow into a mature Iditarod racer!
Each dog can have up to 3 sponsors, or 1 exclusive sponsor. Exclusive sponsors pay 2x the amount shown during checkout.
Noble is a male in the "Virtues" litter, taking his name from a tour guide we met in Belize. So far Noble is the laziest and most timid pup in the group. He tends to hang back on puppy walks, and spends lots of time snoozing in his dog house. Noble can have 3 sponsors, or 1 exclusive sponsor!
Rugged is another male in the "Virtues" litter, and also takes his name from a tour guide we met in Belize. Rugged got assigned this special moniker when he was the first pup to leave the safety of the dog house and explore the wide open world of the puppy pen! Rugged is sponsored by the Hein Family of KS. He can have 2 more sponsors!
Stout is one of the largest males in the "Virtues" group. Go figure. He is also a great snuggler and loves to pose for the camera. Stout is sponsored by the Berges of MO. He can have 2 more sponsors!
Dapper is a male in the "Virtues" litter. His name means handsome; specifically neat and trim. With his reddish-brown fur, this guy certainly is fitting his name. Dapper is sponsored by Gary & Kathy of FL. Dapper can have 2 more sponsors!
Warren is a solo pup. We raised him and his siblings for some friends early in the summer of 2024. When the friends picked up the rest of the litter, they were kind enough to leave this guy behind. We love Warren's independent thinking, confident attitude, and gentle demeanor. We predict he'll be a great leader someday! Warren is sponsored by Bill & Lori of MI. Warren can have 2 more sponsors.
Feisty is already everyone's favorite. The smallest pup in the "Virtues" litter, and only one of two females. Feisty is living up to her name with her tough-girl attitude and mannerisms. But she also loves a good snuggle! Feisty is sponsored by Josey & Eli of GA. Feisty can have 2 more sponsors!
Brazen is one of only two girls in the "Virtues" litter. Her name means "bold and without shame." So far this girl is as sweet as pie. Loves to be snuggled and photographed. Brazen is sponsored by the Hein Family of KS; and by Tracy L of OH. Brazen can have 1 more sponsor!
Baller is a male in the "Virtues" litter. His name means talented. Sooo.. no pressure, buddy! Baller is sponsored by Brittany & Justin from WI; and by The Burns Family of NM. Baller can have 1 more sponsor!
Boss is a male in the "Virtues" litter. So far he's living up to his name by being one of the biggest and well, bossiest of this year's pups! Boss is exclusively sponsored by Meaghan P of UT.
Rave is a pet because she doesn't want to be a sled dog! It's that simple. Rave is our resident barking attendant - er, we mean - parking attendant and cuddle buddy. Rave is sponsored by ML P. of AK
Qarth. Now retired, this guy was an MVP leader in both Iditarod 2018 and 2019. Just like his brother Braavos, Qarth used to love running solo at the front of team when conditions were at their worst. Now he keeps the couch warm, and patrols the property.
Fierce was an exceptional leader during her prime racing years. Now she's retired due to a torn ACL - very race for sled dogs. These days Fierce believes her job is to get attention from visitors and assist the teams coming in and out of the yard.
Koyuk. At birth, this girl was the dictionary definition of a "runt." She refused to eat and had a hard time regulating her body temperature. We brought her indoors for bottle feeding and she slept at night in our bed. Koyuk is now a happy, healthy adult, but she's also pretty sure she's a human. Koyuk is the oldest dog on the property. She is sponsored by ML P. of AK
Owl is siblings with pro-class Iditarod dogs Lynx, Marten and Moose. But after years of trying to race with mixed success herself, we finally realized that peppy, fun, uber-energetic Owl was exactly the sort of mentor we needed in our young team. Owl is a hard worker who knows how to set a great example for the next generation. Owl was exclusively sponsored during all of her racing years by Marilyn C of NM.
Robin was slower to mature than his brothers Arthur and The Wolf, and just never really caught onto long distance racing. Better on trails that are shorter and more predictable, Robin still has a ton of fun in harness. Look for this happy, energetic, good-eating team dog to be working alongside our youngest generation of racing dogs. Sponsored exclusively by Kai and Andy of Palmer, AK
Tolvi (aka Toll House; aka House Mouse) is a member of the "Norwegians" litter. Her brothers Bjorn and Oyvind are key Iditarod racing dogs. But that wasn't the right path for Tolvi. Despite her natural leadership abilities, she lacks enthusiasm for endless days on the trail. Consequently, her job now is to train up our younger generations! Look for Tolvi to be leading the Yearling team on tours and training runs. Sponsored by Melissa M of WA; by Karen & Joe of GA; and by Manuel S of CA.
Frito ran his first Iditarod as a yearling in 2018, and went on to run many more. But Frito was also born an "old soul," and these days he's happier going shorter distances. As a mellow, hard-working, serious team member, he now sets a great example for our young dogs to follow. Look for Frito to be training up the Yearlings. Sponsored exclusively by Andy & Kai of Palmer, AK.