ORIGIN

The Siberian Husky was developed centuries ago by the Chukchis of Northern Siberia. The nomadic tribe used their dogs for many purposes such as; means of transportation, assist in hunting their food, and companions for their children. Siberians were first brought to Alaska in 1909 for racing, proving themselves as hardy dogs with speed and endurance.

General Description

The Siberian HUsky is of medium size and medium bone, light on his feet and graceful in action. Although the Siberian is the only breed to actually bear the word "Husky" in its name, this does not fir its true description. The word "Husky" comes from "Esky", short for Eskimo.

Dogs (males) range from 21" to 23 1/2" at the shoulders, and bitches (females) range from 20" to 22". The Siberian is one of very few breeds of dog in fact, where a dog or bitch who measures taller than the recommended height must be disqualified for competition in the Conformation Ring.

A moderately compact and well-furred body, erect ears, and a brush tail suggest their Northern or Arctic heritage. A wide variety of coat colors and markings are seen in the breed, and the eye colors are also varied, being brown, blue, bi-eyed (one of each color) or even parti colored (both brown and blue color in the same eye). All colors of coat and/or eyes are acceptable, and the buyer of a Siberian Husky should never be asked to pay more for a dog because of his color, markings or eye color. There are far more important things to consider when purchasing any dog!!

Temperament

The characteristic temperament of the Siberian Husky is friendly, alert and outgoing. He does not display guard dog qualities nor is he overly suspicious of strangers. Excessive nervous barking is not common in the breed, although they may vocalize in other ways, sometimes "talking" in a low rumble, which may be mistaken for a growl. They will sometimes howl at sirens, or perhaps in loneliness is left alone. It is good to remember that Siberians, like their cousins the wolves, are typically pack animals who do not prefer to be alone. The mature Siberian can be expected to show some measure of reserve of dignity.

Is the Siberian Husky for You?

There is no doubt that the Siberian is a stunning animal, extremely affectionate and very people-oriented. He also enjoys the company of other dogs. He is by nature almost fastidiously clean and entirely free from body odors. Remarkable for his adaptability to all kinds of living conditions, he makes an enjoyable pet and companion in either country or city. He is considered to be an "easy keeper", requiring less food for maintenance than most breeds of comparable size. He has keen, intelligent eyes with a rakish devil-may-care expression. He is the dog with the "smile" on his face. His intelligence and mischievous behavior can be a bit trying at times however, for the unprepared owner.

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF VERY BASIC SIBERIAN HUSKY CHARACTERISTICS WHICH MAKE THEM UNSUITABLE FOR SOME PEOPLE.

Their warm, soft under coat sheds heavily at least once and usually twice a year, normally in spring and fall. This heavy shedding can last a few months.

Due to their friendly nature, they do not make good watch dogs. The would gladly greet a stranger with kisses.

MOST IMPORTANTLY...the Siberian Husky must NEVER EVER be allowed to run loose...not in the park, not while on walks or runs, not even on your 1,000 acre farm!! This is NOT a dog with herding or retrieving instincts. They are bred to RUN! This is a breed that will not stay at home, even if they are obedience trained and you are outside with them, their nature is to run. If in their wanderings they get out on the highway, they will very likely be hit by a car as they do not have a good sense of danger from traffic.

While extremely gentle with people, they retain excellent hunting skills. They may visit your neighbors and break into their rabbit hutch or kill some prize chickens. Farmers usually have loaded shotguns and will not hesitate to shoot anything they see as a threat to their livestock. The Siberian's quickness and agility will usually enable him to catch and kills cats or other small animals, so no matter the community, he is also detriment to friendly relations with your neighbors, if allowed to run loose. Far too many Siberians (as well as all other breeds) end up in animals shelters because people do not take the necessary measures to keep them confined to their own property. Confinement in your house, fenced yard, or kennel is a MUST!! Make his quarters escape-proof so he cannot dig, climb or jump out.

Digging, by the way, is a natural behavior for the Siberian and can become a real problem with some of them. They are very capable of digging out of a fenced yard or kennel with a dirt floor. IF your lawn is precious to you, perhaps you should consider another breed, but also remember that a great deal can be accomplished with proper training when your dog is young. The Siberian Husky can be an escape artist, so this may challenge your wits and imagination trying to keep him at home. It can be done. Take your Siberian for a walk on his leash. Proper exercise puts the dog and you in good physical condition and a well exercised Siberian is happy, not bored and will be less destructive. Obedience training classes can be helpful and enjoyable. Siberians learn quickly. Some people find Siberians take a bit more patience when obedience training because they are quite intelligent and somewhat more independent than other breeds.

They are a versatile breed that does well as a working sled dog, a conformation show, obedience or agility dog and also as a loving companion.