Husky Facts

History

Siberian Huskies are a breed whose origins are credited to the Chukchi people of Siberia. Originally taken on the hunt to transport food back to the settlement, Huskies were essential to the survival of the Chukchi people. As such, though they were working dogs, they were bred to be good family companions, cared for by the women and children when not working and were highly valued.

Huskies were also used to move the settlement when the climate became inhospitable, the beginnings of thier use as sled dogs. It was in this capacity that the Huskies made their claim to fame in the "Great Serum Run" of 1925. A deadly outbreak of diphtheria plagued Nome, Alaska. In relays, these great dogs travelled over 650 miles in freezing weather to deliver life saving serum to the people of Nome.

Physical Appearance

Often compared to the wolf , Siberian's are actually much smaller than wolves, whom they resemble only in appearance. Males of the breed usually stand 21-23.5 inches at the withers, with females at a slightly smaller 20-22 inches. Huskies boast a feature that is admired by fans of the breed, their beautiful and unique masks. Huskies are found in a variety of coat colours, boasting outer coats showing everything from reds to black and greys. The undercoat of the Husky is typically soft and typically whitish in colour. Eyes can be blue or brown, and often Huskies have one of each, or a combination of the two colours in a single eye.

Temperment

If you're looking for a guard dog, a Husky isn't the place to look. Despite the fact that their appearance can seem intimidating, Huskies generally want nothing more than to make friends. Bred to live with other dogs and humans, they are affectionate and gregarious. Huskies are known to be particularly good with children. However, unless a Husky is raised with cats from early puphood, their prey instinct tends to make them a danger to those of the feline persuasion.

Husky Companionship - The Ups and Downs

Huskies are intelligent dogs who thrive on following strong leadership. Their loyalty is undying, their respect, however, has to be earned. Basic obedience training is highly recommended for Husky owners as it allows the dog to put his/her exceptional intelligence to work. A bored Husky is NOT a happy husky and an unexercised Husky will find ways (as many breeds will) to occupy himself, usually digging up your garden or chewing things you would rather not have chewed.

Huskies generally don't bark, though they certainly are able to howl and will often sing along with you to the radio. They also don't shed frequently, but when they shed their undercoat, at least once a year, Husky owner's will tell you they are left with enough fur to create another dog. Other than brushing and nail clipping, Huskies require very little grooming and are known to be exceptionally clean and "not doggy smelling" dogs.

Huskies like to run... far and fast, and usually keep on going if they aren't contained. Generally speaking, Huskies aren't a breed who will be able to walk leash free down a sidewalk. They do, however, love any safe place, such as leash free parks, where they can run at full tilt, showing off their amazing husky stride.

Huskies are self taught escape artists, known to climb, yes climb, chain link fences or work the latch to get out of a fenced yard. Providing a safe enclosure for your Husky is absolutely essential.

Despite their high energy and need for exercise, most Huskies will mistake themselves for lap dogs and are happy to crawl up on your lap for a snuggle at the end of the day.