Siberian

husky,
breed
of working dog raised in Siberia by the Chukchi people, who valued it as a sled
dog, companion, and guard. It was brought to Alaska in 1909 for sled-dog races
and soon became established as a consistent winner. A graceful dog with erect
ears and a dense, soft coat, the Siberian husky stands 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61
cm) and weighs 35 to 60 pounds (16 to 27 kg). It is usually gray, tan, or black and
white, and it may have head markings resembling a cap, mask, or spectacles.

Hypoallergenic: No
Life span: 12 14 years
Higher classification: Dog
Temperament: Outgoing, Alert, Gentle, Friendly, Intelligent
Height: Female: 2022 inches (5056 cm), Male: 2124 inches (5460 cm)

 Weight: Female: 35.350.7 lbs (1623 kg), Male: 44.159.5 lbs (2027 kg)

The Siberian Husky

More than meets the eye
With its intense eyes, soulful howl, and seemingly endless endurance, the Siberian Husky has
earned its reputation as a tough working breed. But theres more than meets the eye, because
the Siberian has a softer side a sweet disposition and affectionate nature. Its an uncommon
combination, but this breed is anything but average.
The Siberian Husky was bred as a sled dog and developed by the Chukchi, an indigenous
people of northeastern Asia who reside just north of the Bering Strait, where Russia and
Alaska almost meet. In the early 1900s, the Chukchi dogs were brought to Alaska by a

Russian fur trader named William Goosak, who used them to compete in sled races, including
the All-Alaska Sweepstakes. Alaskan sled dog enthusiasts were so impressed with the
Chukchi dogs they continued to develop the line, resulting in the breed we know today as the
Siberian Husky.
The Siberian Huskies bred from the Chukchi canines worked as sled dogs in the far north and
remained relatively unknown to the general public until the winter of 1925, when a diphtheria
epidemic broke out in the remote town of Nome, Alaska. A serum was available, but with
extreme ice-bound conditions complicating travel, getting it there seemed impossible. Enter
the Siberian Huskies, who travelled by relay teams and brought the life-saving medicine to
Nome. For their role in what was dubbed the Great Race of Mercy, Siberian Huskies became
national heroes almost overnight.
Leonhard Seppala was one of the Nome relays lead drivers, having taken the harshest and
longest leg of the journey. He brought his dogs on an American tour, showcasing the breed
and proving in challenge after challenge the Siberians superiority as a sled dog. Seppala was
instrumental in the development of the Siberian and in efforts to create a uniform breed
standard. In 1938, the Siberian Husky Club of
America (SHCA) was founded.
But what of today? Can a tough working breed
also thrive as a family pet? In a word, yes. The
Siberian was ranked by the AKC as the 16th
most popular breed registered in 2011. Is it the
right breed for you? Youll have to consider the
following.
First things first: these dogs need exercise. The
Siberians natural instinct is to run. And run.
And run! Providing a daily outlet for physical
exercise is an absolute must and the SHCA
strongly advises owners to fence in yards and
keep their Siberians on leash or under control
at all times.
Like most working breeds, the Siberian is likely to be happiest when he has a job to do. These
dogs revel in activities like sledding and skijoring, but obedience training can also provide
both physical and mental outletswhich brings us to the subject of training.
If you happen to be drawn to breeds that are intelligent but independent-minded, a Siberian
might fit the bill. This is a spirited and naturally-inquisitive breed. Keen and alert, the
Siberian is a thinker. Biddable and easy to train? Perhaps not, but with patience and a
commitment to training you will be rewarded with a dog that is not only beautiful, but also
well-mannered.
Quiet, they are not. Many know of the breeds wolf-like howl, but the Siberians symphony of
sounds extends to barks, yodels, and what some describe as a type of singing.

Grooming requirements, though a DIY affair, are also a consideration. The Siberian keeps
himself fastidiously clean, but fur is a factor. The breeds thick double coat requires weekly
brushing. A thorough shedding will occur at least once a year.
Lastly, a few notes about breed health. Although generally a very healthy breed, SHCA
identifies two health concerns for Siberians: hip dysplasia and inheritable eye disease. In both
cases, much progress has been made through responsible breeding practices. The national
breed club advises people to seek out reputable breeders who will provide Orthopedic
Foundation for Animals registry papers as well as eye examination reports for both the sire
and dam of the litter.
The Siberian Husky is, in a word, special. He answers the call of the wild, but also serves as
an affectionate companion. Who could ask for anything more?

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a beautiful dog breed with a thick coat that comes in a
multitude of colors and markings. Their blue or multi-colored eyes and striking
facial masks only add to the appeal of this breed, which originated in Siberia. It is
easy to see why many are drawn to the Siberian's wolf-like looks, but be aware
that this athletic, intelligent dog can be independent and challenging for firsttime dog owners. Huskies also put the "H" in Houdini and need a fenced yard that
is sunk in the ground to prevent escapes.

Siberian Huskies have captured the imagination of the masses, as well as artists, writers, and
film producers, with their eye-catching looks and awe-inspiring talents. This medium-size
working dog possesses power and athleticism. First developed as sled dogs some are still
used in this capacity Huskies are remarkable dogs and their ability to learn is
staggering.

Many have fallen in love with the wild nature and pride of Huskies, but are unaware just what
this breed is truly like. This is not a breed for everyone. Their beauty often drives people to
purchase them, unaware of their difficult traits, which makes many Siberian Huskies prime
candidates for shelters.
The increasing popularity of the breed has led to puppy mills and backyard breeders who do
not properly breed for temperament. This is having an adverse effect on the breed at large and
many of the negative traits are becoming common in these ill-bred dogs, including some traits
that are not normal for Siberian Huskies.
If you look at all the positive points of their temperaments, you are left without any doubt that
this is an amazing breed. They are intelligent and independent. They are affectionate with
everyone but do not need to constantly pester you for attention. They are not known to be
aggressive and generally do well in multi-dog homes. They do well with children and will
welcome everyone into their home yes, even intruders.
However, they often use that remarkable mind to learn less savory things and are not overly
eager to please their people. They are extremely difficult to train, so first-time dog owners or
timid people should consider other breeds. Huskies fit best with confident, experienced dog
owners who set rules and deliver consistency. Like all breeds, Huskies need obedience
training, but they seem to have an uncanny ability to distinguish the difference between home
and class behaving beautifully in class while disregarding commands when at home.
The biggest caution about Siberian Huskies is their reputation for being escape artists. They
will wander away from home whenever they get the chance. Sadly, far too many have become
lost or injured as a result. It's vital for Siberian Husky owners to constantly check their yards
for any means of escape and to surround their yard with a fence sunk into the ground.
Although they have many qualities that can make them difficult, Siberian Huskies are still a
wonderful breed. Fans of this spirited breed embrace their wonderful natures. When properly
trained and cared for, Huskies make wonderful family companions.

How to Care for a Husky

Huskies are great pals, but sometimes they can be trouble makers.

Steps
1. Know your climate. It is a popular misconception that Huskies cannot be kept in
warm climates, but with shelter and a good deal of water the arrangement will work
out well.
2. Know about the breed's health problems. Most health problems in

Siberians are eye-related. They can also suffer from hip dysplasia and get
zinc deficiency. Overall, they are a healthy breed with an average lifetime
of 10-15 years.

3. Secure them well. Do not ever let a husky off leash in an open space.

They can run for miles without stopping. Huskies are also extremely
intelligent and will attempt to escape from leashes and collars if you give
them the chance.

4. Know how to train the Siberian. This can be problematic. Huskies have
many *unusual* behaviors (i.e. digging holes in the ground, stealing food,
and refusing to obey commands.) Many of these behaviors, such as the
digging, are very ingrained into the breed. You will also have to show your
Siberian that you are dominant over it, because of the pack mentality that
the breed operates on. To do this, never play games with the dog that
don't end with the toy in your hand. Never allow the dog to sit on your bed
or on the couch (at least until the training is complete.) Always walk in

front of your dog and exit doors in front of your dog. In addition, you should
always eat your food FIRST and then feed the Husky. Even though this
dominance training may sound cruel, it is best to start it early and get rid
of bad behaviors before the grow worse. Balance the dominance training
by showering your dog with praise so that s/he will still trust you.

5. Exercise your husky...a lot. Huskies, like all dogs, will get bored, and
walking isn't always enough. Huskies love to run, and when they pull you, they
think they are pulling a sleigh. So get on a bike or scooter and ride with your
husky.

Tips

It is best to get your husky micro-chipped because of their "wandering" habit.

When walking your husky, use a harness instead of a collar and chain. A collar
will tug on areas of a husky's neck in uncomfortable manners.

Do NOT listen to those who say that this breed is dangerous.

Do not attempt to take care of a half-wolf husky. These animals are dangerous
and no rabies vaccine exists for them.

Warnings

Avoid leaving your husky in a parked car. Cars can reach temperatures of 120140F (48-60C) within 5 minutes in a parking lot even with the windows open.
Cars actually trap heat instead of dissipate it. Thick coated dogs overheat very
quickly. An overheating dog may or may not be panting.

Train in the right equipment. Don't let your husky pull you with his collar or head
harness (even just down the road on your skateboard). He can damage his neck
and back. Always use a harness.