Description: The Siberian Husky originates from the Chukchis people of the Tundra regions of North-eastern Siberia in Russia during the 19th century. The fine temperament of the breed can possibly be acclaimed to the fine treatment of the Chuckchis, as they welcomed these dogs into their homes. The dogs were used by the natives to to pull sleds and herd reindeer.

By the late 19th century, the Chukchi dog was discovered by Alaskan traders, imported into the Northeast Territory, and renamed the Siberian Husky. This import proved important to the survival of the breed as the breed died out in Siberia due to the Russian Communist regime.

Sled-racing became popular and the breed's speed and stamina amazed and inspired dog racers in both Canada and the Northern States of America. The Siberian Husky gained worldwide recognition when they rushed needed medicine to ill people during the diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska.

Native to Siberia, the Husky was brought to Alaska in 1909. They were used for centuries by the Chukchi people in Siberia to pull sleds, herd reindeer and perform watchdogging functions. They were perfect working dogs for the harsh Siberian conditions: hardy, able to integrate into small packs, and quite happy to work for hours on end. The Siberian Husky is a very light-weight sled dog with great stamina. It was brought to North America by fur traders in Malamute for arctic races because of their great speed. In 1925 there was a diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska and many dog teams relayed the precious medicine to the stricken city. This event focused national attention on the Siberian Husky and helped popularize the breed. The Siberian Husky was also used during Admiral Byrd's Antarctic Expeditions. An excellent pack animal, the Husky gets along well with his comrades. Siberian Huskies have now become very popular as a companion dog, but they are also used for sledding, carting and racing.

The Siberian Husky is the fastest, most enduring and most versatile of all purebred sled dogs. He is extremely affectionate, even clownish, but is also independent and sometimes head-strong. He requires a fenced yard because he loves to run and generally does not come when called. He also sheds his coat once or twice a year in profuse quantities. He is excellent with children but is no watch dog, loving friends and strangers alike. Built for speed and endurance, he is somewhat smaller than people often imagine, usually weighing 40-50 pounds.

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).

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog, quick and light on his feet and free and graceful in action.  His moderately compact and well furred body, erect ears and brush tail suggest his Northern heritage.  His characteristic gait is smooth and seemingly effortless.  He performs his original function in harness most capably, carrying a light load at a moderate speed over great distances.  His body proportions and form reflect this basic balance of power, speed and endurance.  The males of the Siberian Husky breed are masculine but never coarse; the bitches are feminine but without weakness of structure.  In proper condition, with muscle firm and well developed, the Siberian Husky does not carry excess weight.

Utilization: Sledge dog.

Behavior/Temperament: These dogs are gentle and playful, but willful and mischievous. This cheerful dog is very fond of his or her family. A puppy at heart, they are clever, sociable and loving, easy-going and docile. Though they do generally have a lot of energy, especially as puppies. Good with children and friendly with strangers, they are not watchdogs, for they bark little and love everyone. Huskies are very intelligent and trainable, but they have a mind of their own and will only obey a command if they see the point. Training takes patience, consistency and an understanding of the Arctic dog character. This dog will take advantage if he can. Huskies make an excellent jogging companion, as long as it is not too hot. Huskies may be difficult to housebreak. This breed likes to howl and gets bored easily. They do not like to be left alone, so if this is the breed for you, you may want to consider having two. A lonely Husky can be very destructive. Remember that the Husky is a sled dog in heart and soul. They are good with other pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Huskies are thrifty eaters and need less food than you might expect. This breed likes to roam. Siberian Huskies can make wonderful companions for people who are aware of what to expect from these beautiful and intelligent animals. Although there are exceptions to every rule', there are a number of breed characteristics that are generally present among members of this arctic breed. This is not meant to be a comprehensive list, as even the top breeders in the country will tell you that they learn something new about their dogs every day!

The characteristic temperament of the Siberian Husky is friendly and gentle, but also alert and outgoing.  He does not display the possessive qualities of the guard dog, nor is he overly suspicious of strangers or aggressive with other dogs. 

Some measure of reserve and dignity may be expected in the mature dog.  His intelligence, tractability, and eager disposition make him an agreeable companion and willing worker.

The breed is known for its good temperament and its suitability in a family environment. They are gentle in character, with a friendly and alert facial expression. They are people orientated dogs so don’t make natural guard dogs. They love and need company and should not be left alone for long periods of time or they can become very destructive.
They enjoy other dogs, and may do better if there is more than one Husky. They do not get along well with cats or other small animals due to their natural hunting instincts.

Although they don't bark much, Siberians are vocal and can howl. Digging is also natural with this dog, his ancestors dug holes in the snow as nests, and this instinct still remains strong.

Popular as family pets and as show dogs due to their striking appearance and gentle temperament, Siberians have certain drawbacks. Siberians are extremely affectionate, curious,and welcoming to people, which means they rarely hurt humans but are not good guard dogs. Although normally quite tractable, affectionate and docile with people, they have a strong hunting drive and will kill cats, rabbits, chickens, squirrels and other birds and small animals; they have been known to savage sheep. They should be kept in secure enclosures as they will not always come to call and will often disappear on long hunting trips; they cannot be allowed to run loose. Siberians are also accomplished escape artists and diggers, so it is important to check enclosures frequently for any potential escape routes. Siberians are trainable to a certain degree, but patience is necessary.

Siberian Huskies come with abundant energy and a pleasant disposition. The breed enjoys exercise and room to roam. This dog does best in cool to cold climates.

This breed does well with other dogs and children and is suitable for first time pet owners.  While Siberian Huskies should be kept under control at all times. The breed can be trained for a multitude of things including arctic search and rescue. It is important to remember that the Siberian Husky should not be left outside in hot weather.

Coat: The coat of the Siberian Husky is double and medium in length, giving a well furred appearance, but is never so long as to obscure the cleancut outline of the dog.  The undercoat is soft and dense and of sufficient length to support the outer coat. The guard hairs of the outer coat are straight and somewhat smooth lying, never harsh nor standing straight off from the body.  It should be noted that the absence of the undercoat during the shedding season is normal. Trimming of whiskers and fur between the toes and around the feet to present a neater appearance is permissible.  Trimming the fur on any other part of the dog is not to be condoned and should be severely penalized.

Colour: All colours 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.

Height:Dogs 21-23½ inches (53-60cm.) Bitches 20-22 inches (51-56cm.)
Weight: Dogs 45-60 pounds (20½-27kg.) Bitches 35-50 pounds (16-22½kg.)

Health: 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, crystalline corneal opacities and ectopy (displacement) of the urethra). Also, they sometimes have zinc responsive dermatitis (a skin condition which improves by giving a zinc supplements). Breeders can get hip screenings from the OFA and eye screenings yearly from a canine opthamologist (AVCO) and register the exam through CERF and SHOR)... I can provide more information if you'd like.

Hip dysplasia: a malformation of the hip joint resulting in a poor fit between the head of the femur bone and the hip socket. This condition can be alleviated by surgery, at some cost to dog and owner. Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested have been rated clear of hip dysplasia. Do not take yes for an answer without seeing a certificate, and ask for a copy to take to your veterinarian.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary disease of the eye that has been identified in this breed. PRA is a blanket term for many types of retinal diseases, all of which result in blindness. All Siberians, regardless of age or breeding status, should be examined yearly by a member of the Veterinary Opthalmologists.

Cataracts: cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.

Zinc responsive dermatitis: a skin condition which improves by giving a zinc supplements.

Life Expectancy: About 12-15 years.

Grooming: The coat does not need much care except during the twice a year heavy shedding season, when they have to be combed thoroughly with a metal comb.

If you don't like dog hair this is not the breed for you, as their downy undercoat sheds in early to late spring. They also shed a little all year round, this can be reduced by weekly brushing. The only need to be bathed when necessary.