Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is first and foremost a sled dog. Bred originally by the Chukchi people of Siberia, the breed became wellknown after its introduction to Alaska and participation in the lifesaving run to Nome with diphtheria serum. The Siberian Husky is bred to run long distances very quickly while pulling light loads, the breed is never to be heavy or cumbersome. The eyes are almondshaped and either brown, blue, or party colored. The ears are erect and well-furred. The body is slightly longer than the dog is tall, and the tail is well-furred. The undercoat is soft and dense, while the outer coat is straight and of medium length. The coat may be all colors, from white to black. This coat needs weekly brushing for most of the year, but during shedding seasons, usually spring and fall, daily brushing is typically needed.

Siberian Huskies are extroverts, friendly with just about everyone; they are not watchdogs.

Siberian Huskies were bred to run and still have that need. These dogs can go jogging with their owners, run alongside a bicycle, or run in the yard. All exercise should be either on leash or within a securely fenced area, as they have a tendency to be escape artists and to wander. Training is also important to help keep these dogs safe and should begin in early puppyhood. However, even a well-trained Siberian may not be trustworthy off leash outside of a fenced yard.

Siberian Huskies have a funny sense of humor, and this can interfere with training sessions. This breed needs an owner who doesn’t mind dog hair in the house, who is active, and who understands the Siberian Huskie’s need to run. Siberian Huskies also do better with company, either with someone home all day or in the company of another dog.

The breed is usually great with kids. These dogs should not be trusted with smaller pets; they have a strong prey drive. Health concerns include eye problems and hip dysplasia.

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