15 min. Tadoussac : Behind-the-Scenes Sled Dog Kennel Tour

Introducing the 15-minute Tadoussac: Behind-the-Scenes Sled Dog Kennel Tour

If you’re visiting Quebec and have a soft spot for animals or are just curious about the life of sled dogs, this short yet immersive tour is quite the find. It promises a personal peek into the world of Nordic huskies and malamutes, right near Tadoussac, making it a perfect addition to a day of whale watching or exploring the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational insights with genuine interaction—no glass barriers or canned presentations here. Plus, the chance to cuddle these energetic, affectionate dogs makes it a fun outing for families, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a break from sightseeing.

The only potential pitfall? The tour involves a 20-minute walk to the kennel, which could be tiring in poor weather or for those with mobility concerns. Otherwise, the experience suits those seeking a meaningful, authentic connection with working sled dogs in a laid-back setting, away from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Encounter: Get up close and personal with around fifty sled dogs, learning about their personalities and roles.
• Educational & Interactive: Discover the daily routines, behavior, and care involved in running a sled dog kennel.
• Passionate Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and clearly passionate, enhancing the experience with engaging stories.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for adults and children, with opportunities for cuddling and feeding the dogs.
• Value for Money: At just $19 per person, this tour offers a unique, memorable experience that’s both fun and educational.
• Timing & Accessibility: Usually available in the morning with flexibility for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

A Practical Look at the Trek Behind the Kennel

This tour offers a rare window into the life of sled dogs, which are more than just winter workhorses—they are companions with distinct personalities and routines. The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including the walk to and from the kennel, and is led by guides fluent in English and French.

Starting Point & Logistics

You’ll need to arrive 30 minutes early at 465 Route 172 North, Sacré-Coeur. From there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to reach the kennel itself. While this walk might be a bit of a trek in bad weather, it’s also part of the experience—giving you a chance to stretch your legs and get a first look at the surroundings.

The Kennel & Dogs

Once at the kennel, you’ll meet a diverse team of about fifty dogs—a mix of huskies and malamutes. Each dog has its own story and personality, making the interaction more genuine. Several reviewers highlighted how friendly and affectionate these dogs are, with one saying, “Most of them love cuddles and are eager to make new friends.”

You’ll learn how the kennel’s owners and guides care for the dogs, emphasizing well-being and meticulous attention to their needs. Expect to hear about how their routines change with the seasons, and the effort it takes to keep them healthy and happy.

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Engagement & Participation

The highlight is the participation in food distribution—an activity that not only provides a sense of involvement but also deepens the connection to these animals. One reviewer described it as “an intense and rewarding experience,” noting how much the dogs appreciated the attention.

Cuddling and feeding sessions are common, giving visitors a chance to capture memorable photos and experience the dogs’ friendly, eager personalities firsthand. Many visitors mention how the dogs seem genuinely eager to get affection, making for some truly heartwarming moments.

The Guide & Educational Value

Guides are praised for their passion and knowledge, which significantly enhances the tour. One reviewer noted, “The guide was super interesting and the explanation was wonderful,” highlighting that even those with little prior knowledge will leave with a better understanding of sled dog life.

Guides share insights into how these dogs are trained, fed, and cared for, and what it takes to manage a sled dog kennel. Expect honest answers to your questions about their behavior, training, and even the mushers’ lifestyle.

What to Expect in Detail

The tour begins with a brief introduction to the kennel’s history and purpose, setting a relaxed yet informative tone. After the walk to the kennel, you’ll be greeted by the guide, who will introduce you to the dogs and their individual stories.

The dogs themselves are the star of the show—they’re curious, energetic, and often eager for interaction. As you move through the kennels, you’ll get to pet and cuddle many dogs, which is often the highlight for visitors.

Participation in feeding is both intimate and instructive, offering a glimpse into the daily routines of these working animals. The guide will explain the importance of diet, exercise, and socialization in keeping the dogs in top condition.

Throughout, the guide’s enthusiasm and expertise make the experience engaging, and you’ll find yourself asking questions about dog behavior, training techniques, and their seasonal routines.

Photos & Memories

Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to capture candid moments with the dogs. These photos often become treasured souvenirs of a rare, genuine connection with animals that are typically associated with winter sports.

Duration & Group Size

The 1.5-hour duration is ample for meaningful interaction without feeling rushed. Group sizes tend to be small, fostering a more personal experience. The tour runs mainly in the morning, fitting well into a day filled with other outdoor adventures.

Analyzing the Value & Overall Experience

At just $19 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized nature of the interaction and the educational content. It’s a rare opportunity to meet, cuddle, and feed sled dogs in such a relaxed setting, away from commercialized attractions.

Many reviews emphasize the passion of the guides and the stunning views of the surrounding nature, which add to the overall charm. One traveler from Belgium said, “The explanations, the wonderful contact with the dogs,” capturing the essence of what makes this tour memorable.

While transportation to the kennel isn’t included, the walking distance is manageable, and the setting itself is beautiful—perfect for a quiet stroll before or after the activity.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, animal lovers, and curious travelers wanting an authentic look at sled dog life. It appeals particularly to those willing to get involved—feeding, cuddling, and asking questions—rather than just observing passively.

If you’re seeking a fun, educational activity that offers genuine interaction with friendly dogs, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate passionate guides and value small-group experiences.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Experience for You?

This behind-the-scenes sled dog kennel tour near Tadoussac offers a rare opportunity to connect with sled dogs in a relaxed, authentic environment. For those interested in animals or curious about the musher’s world, it delivers a wealth of insights combined with genuine affection from the dogs.

The value for money is hard to beat, considering the personal interaction and educational content included. It is particularly suitable for travelers looking for a family-friendly activity that’s both fun and informative, or for anyone craving a meaningful animal encounter away from larger tourist crowds.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a chance to see dogs in their element, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories—and maybe even a few new furry friends.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including the walk to and from the kennel and the interaction time with the dogs.

What time should I arrive?
You need to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start time at 465 Route 172 North, Sacré-Coeur.

Is transportation to the kennel included?
No, transportation is not included. The walking distance from the meeting point is approximately 10-15 minutes.

What should I wear?
Dress in clothes that can get dirty, especially since you’ll be handling and feeding the dogs, and the environment can be muddy or snowy.

Can children participate?
Yes, the activity is suitable for adults and kids, and many reviews mention it’s a great activity for families.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is offered in both English and French, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience.

Enjoy this chance to see sled dogs in their element, to learn about their care, and to forge a genuine connection with some of Quebec’s most lovable working animals. It’s a storybook experience that’s both fun and full of heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby