Why were dog sled teams used in the past in Alaska?

Dog sled teams were used in Alaska primarily for transportation and freight hauling in remote and harsh conditions where other forms of travel were impractical. They were essential for delivering mail, supplies, and goods across vast distances, especially during the long winter months when snow covered the ground. The indigenous Inuit and other native peoples relied on sled dogs for hunting and moving through the challenging Arctic landscape, making them a vital part of life in the region. Additionally, during the gold rush era, dog sled teams became crucial for prospectors and settlers seeking fortune in the Alaskan wilderness.