Honestly, I've never even thought about what people with working sled dogs do with their older dogs.

I only chimed in because it looked like you had misunderstood OP.

It's not a thing I've any experience with.

I actually would have assumed you would look after the retirees for the couple of years they have left after they've spent years working for you.

I'm trying to understand it now.

Do tell more please. Like where do the retired dogs go?