Description

Also known as the Arctic husky, the Siberian Husky has a sweet nature and is a breed who is suited for the whole family, but they do not make a good guard dog. Gentle in character with a determined look, the Siberian Husky is a very people oriented dog. Male Siberian Huskies have a tendency to roam and need to be kept in a fenced in area. If they gets out it may be impossible to catch them on foot. A member of the Spitz family, the Siberian Husky is strong and has the ability to haul heavy loads over long distances and rough terrain. They will happily pull a young child in a wagon or sled.

Size of Male: Height: 21-23.5 inches Weight: 45-60 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 20-22 inches Weight: 35-50 pounds

Temperament

Siberian Huskies are gentle and playful, but willful and mischievous. Siberian Husky is very fond of his or her family. A puppy at heart, Siberian Huskies 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. Siberian 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 they can. Siberian Huskies make an excellent jogging companion, as long as it is not too hot. Siberian 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.

Living Conditions

Siberian Huskies are not usually recommended for apartment life, however they can live in apartments if well trained and properly exercised. Siberian Huskies are very active indoors and do best with a fenced-in large yard. Because of their heavy coats, Siberian Huskies prefer cool climates. One has to use common sense with respect to maintaining them in the heat by providing adequate shade and air conditioning. This breed prefers to live in packs.

Upkeep

Siberian Husky is an active dog, bred to run tirelessly for miles. Siberian Husky need ample daily exercise, either in the form of a long jog or a long run off leash in a safe area. Siberian Husky also loves to pull and enjoys cold weather. It can live outdoors in cool or cold climates, but ideally it can divide its time between indoors and out. Its coat needs brushing one or two times a week – daily during periods of heavy shedding.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: progressive retinal atrophy, distichiasis, cataract, corneal opacities

Life expectancy: 11 – 13 years