On 12 November 2026, the Sled Dog Welfare Report: The Case of Finnish Lapland was published as part of the Research Council of Finland-funded PAWWS project. Authored by Dr. Tiamat Warda, Dr. Linda Tallberg, Professor José-Carlos García-Rosell, and Dr. Mikko Äijälä, the report draws on academic research and perspectives from professionals across the sector to examine pressing welfare concerns in sled dog tourism.
These include seasonal tourism pressures, dogs’ working and living conditions, year-round care, kennel management, inadequate welfare standards and resources, and inconsistent regulation.
The report identifies responsibilities among tourism businesses, veterinary authorities, policymakers, and certification bodies, and proposes practical and structural changes to improve sled dogs’ welfare throughout their lives.
View or download the report below.