Siberian Husky Dog Breed

AKC Dog Breeds: Siberian Husky

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Working Group
Height: 20-24 inches Weight: 35-60 pounds Color: black and white, jet black, silver black and reddish black, grey, wolf grey, silver, sable, copper, chocolate copper

Bred in Northeast Asia as a sled dog, the Siberian Husky is known for its amazing endurance and willingness to work. Its agreeable and outgoing temperament makes it a great all-around dog, suitable for anything from sledding to therapy work. Because it originated in cold climates, Siberians have a thicker coat then most other breeds of dog, made up of a dense cashmere-like undercoat and a longer, coarse top coat. The Siberian Husky is widely believed to have originated from within the Chukchi Tribe, off the eastern Siberian peninsula. These dogs were used in 1908 for the All-Alaskan Sweepstakes, which consisted of a 408 mile long dogsled race, and served in the Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue Unit during World War II.

General Appearance
Siberian Huskies are strong, compact, working dogs. The Siberian Husky comes in all colors from black to pure white are allowed. A variety of markings on the head is common, including many striking patterns not found in other breeds. Color choices include Black and White, which ranges from light (dilute) to dark (jet), Red and White, which ranges from light (peach or orange) to dark (chocolate or brown), Gray and White, which ranges from light (silver) to dark (wolf-gray), Sable and White (which is red-orange with black tips), Agouti and White (which is sometimes referred to as the coyote color and contains a lot of dark gray coat), and White (not to be confused with a Samoyed). Different coat markings are all accepted, the most notable being a pie-bald. These coat markings are similar to that of a pinto horse. The face mask and underbody are usually white, and the remaining coat any color. The eyes are almond shaped, moderately spaced and set a trifle obliquely. It is a common misconception that all Siberians have blue eyes. They can have eyes that are blue, brown, amber, or any combination thereof including eyes which are half blue and half brown, which is referred to as being parti-eyed. Having one blue eye and one brown eye is referred to as being bi-eyed. The large "snow shoe" feet have hair between the toes for gripping on ice. Its ears are set high and erect, with a sickle shaped tail. The Siberian Husky has a thick, wooly undercoat and a soft outer coat. It is able to withstand temperatures as low as -58 degrees to -76 degrees F ( -50 degrees to -60 degrees C).

Temperament
A gentle and sweet natured dog, the Siberian Husky is a breed that makes for a great family dog. He has a dependable nature, and is loving and affectionate, enjoying attention and interaction from his family. This is a dog that will not fare well with those that cannot dedicate time and attention to him, as neglect will lead to boredom and destructive behavior such as chewing. The Siberian Husky is a hardworking dog, and is able to haul heavy loads over long distances. He loves to dig wholes in your yard. He may bark and howl from time to time, but is generally pretty quite. He will bark to raise an alarm however, and this makes him an effective watchdog. These dogs must be raised with children in order to get along with them. They tend to be sociable and friendly around strangers. When it comes to animals, the Siberian Husky will usually get along okay with other dogs but is not to be trusted around cats and smaller animals, as he does have a high prey instinct. Although intelligent and quick to learn, the Siberian Husky can be a challenge to train, and is best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership who can establish themselves as pack leader.

Grooming
The Siberian Husky is by nature clean and free from body odor. They require daily brushing to minimize excess loose hair, tangles, and mats. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary with a mild shampoo.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The Siberian Husky is prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, and skin allergies. It is extremely vital that they do not become overheated. The life expectancy of the Siberian Husky is around 12-14 years.

Activity Level
The Siberian Husky has an innate and deep desire to run. They do best with a large securely fenced yard. If they are left alone for extended periods of time they will become bored which leads to digging and destruction. They make excellent walking and jogging companions provided they are very securely leashed and the climate is not too hot. The Husky is not recommended for apartment dwelling unless they are exceedingly well trained and sufficiently exercised.

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