Breed History:

Siberian Huskies originate from Siberia, where they have been historically bred by the Chukchi people for sledge pulling, herding reindeer and as watchdogs. In 1909, they were introduced to Alaska during the Nome Gold Rush, to work the mining fields and expeditions through impassable terrain. In 1925, there was a diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska and many dog teams relayed the precious medicine to the epidemic-stricken city. This event helped popularise the Siberian husky.

Size – Medium - Large

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Breed Appearance: 

The Siberian Husky is a strong working dog known for its high endurance and striking resemblance to a wolf. They have erect ears, sickle-shaped tails, and “snowshoe” feet which help them navigate and withstand harsh terrains and climates. Their thick double coat, which allows them to withstand extreme temperatures, comes in a variety of colours such as Black and White, Red and White, Gray and White, Sable and White, and Agouti and White and White. Siberian Huskies have almond-shaped eyes which can be blue, brown, black or bi-coloured.

Breed Type - Family/guard: 

Siberian Huskies are a loyal and affectionate breed with a mischievous nature making them great family pets. Huskies thrive in social environments and are great with children but can be destructive if left alone. They are a willful and independent breed and require consistent training and patience. 

However, Siberian Huskies don’t make for good guard dogs due to their minimal barking and overall friendly attitude. They make for great jogging companions, especially for those who understand their pack-oriented arctic dog instincts.  

Training:

Siberian Huskies require consistent training and patience as they have a tendency to be destructive if left alone and a natural prey drive. 

Health & Care:

Huskies are relatively free of breed-specific problems, apart from hip dysplasia and occasional eye problems such as juvenile cataracts, PRA (eyes) primarily in male dogs, corneal dystrophy and crystalline corneal opacities. Also, they sometimes have zinc-responsive dermatitis which is a skin condition which can be improved by giving zinc supplements.

Living Condition:

It is not recommended to keep pet Siberian Huskies in an apartment as they are very active indoors and next to a large fenced-in yard. Siberian Huskies in cold winter environments thanks to their heavy coats, it is not recommended at all to keep them in warm environments. They prefer living in packs. 

Exercise:

Siberian Huskies need a fair amount of exercise, including a daily walk or jog, but should not be excessively exercised in warm weather. They need a large yard with a high fence, but bury the wire at the base of the fence because they are likely to dig their way out and go off hunting.

Grooming:

The coat of the Siberian Husky only needs to cared for during the heavy shedding seasons which come twice a year, that is when they need to combed with metal combs.

Advantages:

• Excellent with children

• Energetic and sociable

• Excel as jogging partners

• Good with other pets if raised together from puppyhood

Disadvantages:

• Can be destructive if left alone

• Strong prey drive

• Require consistent and patient training

• Not suited as watchdogs due to minimal barking