Dave Dalton

61 year old Yukon Quest veteran

Nationality: American
Current Residence: Healy, AK
Occupation(s): Dog Musher/ Tour Guide
Kennel Name: Dalton Gang Kennels
Name Origination: By using my last name and the fact that dogs run in a gang-line.
Kennel Bloodlines: Dalton
Breeds: Alaskan Huskies
# of Dogs in Kennel: 40

Musher Question & Answer

How many years have you been running dogs?
30

Tell us about your dogs?
The Dalton Gang will be returning with several finishers from the 2018 race. Leader brothers Bobber and Spinner making their 5th race appearance, along with the 7 Dwarfs sibling Happy, Dopey, Grumpy and Doc. Panda's pups Grizzly, Yogi and Polar are back. Last years rookies from Country singers liter, Hank Jr., Willie and Waylon will back. Competing for their spot in this years line-up are the rookies from the Chip litler: Ruffles, Cheeto, Maui, Scoop along with the Outlaws: Scarlet, Kitty, Butch and Billy.

How did you get started running dogs?
I became the owner of a litter of 13 Airdale/Alaskan Husky puppies and they started my recreational sled dog team.

What do you love most about running sled dogs?
Taking a young, inexperienced dog team and watching them grow stronger and more confident.

Are you a member of any other organizations involved in sled dog sports?
Yukon Quest Finishers Club.

Why did you enter the Yukon Quest? What are your goals for the race?
To improve over last year with a happy and healthy team.

What music do you listen to on the trail?
Country and Rock n' Roll

How did your dogs get their names?/ How do you choose names?
Theme names from family, friends and puppy sponsors.

List recent sled dog races and/or best performances
2018 - Yukon Quest - 10th; 2008 - Yukon Quest - 3rd; 2006 - Yukon Quest - 4th; 2005 - Yukon Quest - 4th; 2004 - Yukon Quest - 3rd and the Veterinarian's Choice Award for finishing with all 14 dogs; 1988 - Yukon Quest - Rookie Race - 21st and started with 12 dogs and finished with 12 dogs.