Glucocentric Metabolism in Ultra-Endurance Sled Dogs

Abstract

The total energy expenditure of a racing sled dog can exceed 500 kcal/kg bodyweight during typical events spanning a week or more. Based on early research, as well as practical considerations, modern commercial diets are formulated to meet these energy requirements using fat and protein. However, more recent research provides a clear picture of a canine athlete with glucocentric metabolism, including many conditioning-induced adaptations oriented toward sustaining submaximal exercise with glucose as the primary metabolic fuel despite the consumption of fat as the primary dietary energy source. The specific strategies used by racing sled dogs to maintain a robust supply of glucose during exercise, as well as the possible role of fat in facilitating that metabolic priority, is the subject of ongoing research.