While in the very north of Canada recently I met a man named “Big Dog” (of Sayisi Dene, first nation). An amazing man with amazing stories, proud of his culture and his large pack of sled dogs.
Big Dog shared plenty of information about his approach. He talked about getting to know each dog individually, what their strengths are, where they fit best, who they like to work with and who they didn’t. Lead dogs play critical roles. When asked whether lead dogs stood out from others as young puppies, and his answer was no. Often the most unlikely puppies become the best leaders – they grow and evolve over time with experience. He also added that some dogs don’t want to be leaders, they just want to work hard, pull hard and enjoy themselves. Big Dog emphasised how important it is to identify where dogs want to be and place them there, to enable them to thrive.
Other critical areas are nourishment and rest. On long expeditions and in races, dogs are fed every three hours and have plenty of scheduled rest time - he doesn't wait for dogs to show signs of fatigue before resting them. Big Dog believes it’s important to invest heavily in health and wellbeing to maximise performance.
While visiting Big Dog, and his pack, it was very clear the dogs loved their work. As their harnesses were put on, and they were led to, and attached to the sled, the noise of their excited barking was piercing. Even more intense was the wining of dogs left behind – FOMO I assume!
As we spent some hours with Big Dog and his pack, I couldn’t help noticing parallels with effective organisational leadership approaches and high performing teams.
It’s not the first time I’ve met sled dogs or ridden a dog sled. But it’s the first time I’ve met an inspirational and passionate man like Big Dog. He said he hates people - he prefers dogs, but I think he’d make an excellent leadership and team coach.
If you or your team would like to find out more about Big Dog and his philosophies, please get in touch. I’ll relay his philosophies as best as I can.
