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Siberian Husky

Size:
Lifespan:
Over 10 years
Coath length:
Short
Sheds:
Yes
Grooming:
More than once a week
Size of home:
Size of garden:
Large garden
Town or country:
Country
Energy levels:
High
Characteristics:
Independent, sociable and energetic
Gets along with other pets:
Yes dogs; no other small household pets
Family dog:
Suitable for older children
Suitable for:
Active owners/families
Breed standard colours:
Below
Average dimension(s):
Height: 51-60 cm (20-23.5 in)Weight: 16-27 kg (35-60 lb)
Requires training:
Extra training

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The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized sled dog originating in Northeast Siberia.

Lighter and faster than other sled dogs, the Siberian Husky is built for power and speed and has a wonderful well-balanced frame and smooth easy gait. They have almond-shaped eyes which can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, erect ears and noses which range from black to light tan depending on coat colour. They have dense double coats, designed to protect them from harsh arctic winters and come in a variety of colours and patterns, often with white marking on the chest, legs, face and tail tip. Their tail is heavily furred and carried up in a sickle or straight out behind. Siberian Huskies are friendly and gentle dogs, with large personalities. They love people and, as pack dogs, thrive around their family and other dogs. A well-socialised Siberian Husky adores children, although they may be too boisterous and over-excitable for younger children. They have a high prey drive and are not ideal companions for smaller household pets. These dogs are extremely active and need a lot of exercise, making them ideal companions for active, adventure-loving owners. They need lots of opportunities to run and play and a large secure garden is a must. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, these dogs can be a handful and can be chewers and diggers. As a rule, they don’t tend to bark but they do howl. Siberian Huskies can be strong-willed and somewhat independent making obedience training essential. Their impressive coats also require regular grooming, although generally, they are naturally clean, odourless dogs. Siberian Huskies are wonderfully bright and active dogs but they are not suitable for everyone. They need to be part of an active household, where they can have lots of company, playtime and exercise.

History

 

The Siberian Husky originates in the Northeast of Siberia where it was developed by the semi-nomadic Chukchi people as a working sled dog which could haul light loads over vast expanses of frozen wasteland in sub-zero temperatures. The breed remained largely the same for centuries due to the remote location of their homeland. In the 1900s Siberian Huskies started being used for sled dog racing and have been part of many famous expeditions.

Health and common issues

Generally healthy. The Siberian Husky is a generally healthy breed but can still be prone to a number of health conditions including epilepsy, certain cancers, glaucoma, cataracts and hip dysplasia. (Breed watch – category 2 on Kennel Club)