Breed History:

The Siberian Husky was originally developed by the Chukchi people of northeastern Siberia over 3,000 years ago. Bred to pull light loads over long distances in harsh Arctic conditions, these dogs were essential for transportation and survival.

In the early 1900s, the breed gained global attention after teams of Siberian Huskies won long-distance sledge races in Alaska. They rose to fame during the 1925 serum run to Nome, where Huskies helped deliver diphtheria antitoxin across treacherous terrain. Today, they are beloved as working sledge dogs and family companions around the world.

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, grey 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:

Huskies are intelligent but independent, not naturally eager to please:

• Require firm, consistent training from an early age

• Thrive on positive reinforcement and variety

• Can be stubborn and easily bored

• High prey drive—recall training is difficult

• Escape artists—need secure fencing and leash control

Obedience training is important to keep this smart breed mentally engaged.

Health & Care:

Generally a healthy breed, but susceptible to a few inherited issues:

• Hip dysplasia

• Eye problems (cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy)

• Hypothyroidism

• Zinc deficiency (some Huskies are prone)

Routine health checks and a high-quality diet help prevent major issues. Cold-hardy, but needs protection in hot climates.

Living Conditions:

Best suited for homes with space to roam or owners who live an active lifestyle:

• Not ideal for apartments unless highly exercised

• Needs a secure, fenced yard—Huskies are expert diggers and jumpers

• Can be vocal (howling, “talking”)

• Not good for being alone for long hours—may become destructive

• Adapt well to multi-dog households

Exercise:

Extremely high energy:

• Needs at least 1.5–2 hours of exercise daily

• Enjoys running, hiking, pulling sledges/carts, and agility

• Off-leash only in fenced or secure areas

• Mental stimulation (puzzle toys, scent games) is essential

Without exercise, Huskies can become destructive and hyperactive.

Grooming:

Moderate grooming needs but heavy seasonal shedding:

• Brush 2–3 times a week, normally; daily during shedding seasons

• Blows coat twice a year (spring and fall)—expect heavy fur loss

• Regular ear cleaning, nail trims, and dental care

• Bathing only occasionally—coat is self-cleaning

• Avoid shaving—it ruins the double coat’s insulation

Despite thick fur, Huskies are surprisingly low in odour.

Advantages:

• Energetic and fun-loving

• Beautiful, wolf-like appearance

• Generally friendly with people and dogs

• Clean, minimal odour

• Strong, hardy, and cold-weather tolerant

• Great for active outdoor lifestyles

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for sedentary or first-time owners

• Very high exercise needs

• Heavy shedding, especially seasonally

• Escapes easily—requires secure fencing

• Difficult to train off-leash

• May chase cats or small animals

• Doesn’t do well if left alone or under-stimulated