Ep 3. A Dog Mushers' Dream

In the third episode of Buying Alaska's first season, titled "A Dog Mushers' Dream," viewers follow the journey of a couple who are looking to purchase a family-friendly home in the middle of Alaska's remote wilderness. However, they have some unique requirements: the property must be suitable for raising sled dogs and accommodating a large canine family.

The episode begins by introducing the couple, who have moved to Alaska from the Lower 48 with their brood of dogs. The couple have been running a sled dog team for a number of years, and since moving to Alaska, they have been renting a property on the outskirts of town. However, they have outgrown their current living situation and have started the search for a new, more permanent home.

The couple's real estate agent takes them to an array of properties that fit their criteria, including a log cabin with some serious dog-handling facilities, a homestead with lots of acreage and a spacious building for housing the dogs, and a modern property with lots of room for both human and canine occupants. As they tour each property, the couple weigh up the pros and cons of each one, considering factors such as location, land quality, and the practicality of daily life with so many dogs.

Throughout the episode, viewers learn about the challenges of living a dog musher's life in Alaska. From the harsh winter conditions to the logistic difficulties of keeping numerous dogs fed and healthy, the couple's decision to move has not been taken lightly. They discuss the challenges they have faced so far, including the financial commitments involved in running a dog sled team and the pressures involved in ensuring each dog's welfare during training and racing. However, it is clear that this is a passion project for them, and they are determined to find the perfect property that will enable them to continue their lifestyle while also providing a safe and comfortable home for their beloved dogs.

At each property, the couple ask plenty of questions and examine every aspect of the living space to determine whether it is suitable for their needs. They also take the dogs with them on each viewing, ensuring that the property is appropriate for providing them with the space and care they require. One particularly interesting moment in the episode occurs when the couple take the dogs on a river ride, which helps them to test out how well each property would enable them to train their team and take part in the area's famous dog sled races.

As the episode draws to a close, the couple debates which property to choose, weighing up the benefits and drawbacks of each one. The final decision is an emotional one, as the couple must consider not only themselves but also the welfare of their loyal canine companions. Despite the challenges inherent in their lifestyle, they are determined to create a home where their dogs can live happy, healthy lives while fulfilling their purpose as working sled dogs. Ultimately, viewers are left with the sense that they have witnessed a powerful testament to the bond between humans and animals and the lengths to which one couple will go to create a dream life for their beloved animal companions.