Despite the angry face, Huskys can be sociable with other dogs and even children!
Its name leaves no doubt: the Siberian Husky appeared in Siberia about two thousand years ago. The breeding and dispersion of the breed is attributed to a tribe called Chukchi, who used dogs to pull the sleds. The physical characteristics of the Husky were ideal for taking long distances, pulling objects and also withstanding the cold of Siberia.
In 1909 William Goosak, a fur trader, took the Huskys to Alaska to participate in the Great Alaskan Race, a 657 km course. The Huskys impressed with their high performance and started to gain notoriety. But it was in 1925 that this breed gained worldwide recognition.
A small Alaskan town called “Nome” was plagued by a diphtheria epidemic, it was groups of dogs, mainly from Huskys, who brought serum and medication to this village in the face of a severe winter and ended up saving the population. The episode became known as “Race of the Name Serum” and the Siberian Husky reached its place of prominence. In 1930 the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Size
The height varies from
51 to 60 cm
Weight
Weight varies from
26 to 44 kg
Coat
The Siberian Husky has two layers of fur, which protect dogs from the intense cold. The undercoats are very soft and the upper coat has a medium length. During the moulting season they shed a lot of hair, especially in places where the climate is warmer! The colors are the most diverse and range from pure white to combinations of white with gray (most common), black, red and brown.
Health
One of the most striking features of this breed is the eyes. Commonly they have brown or blue eyes and Huskys with heterochromia (one eye of each color) is very common.
However, the beautiful eyes of the Huskys are prone to develop some diseases.
The main ones are: bilateral cataracts, glaucoma, corneal opacity and progressive retinal atrophy. Of course, it is not a rule that your Siberian Husky will develop any of these diseases, but they can be serious and lead to complete loss of vision, so any signs of discomfort that the animal presents, it should be taken to the veterinarian for a complete assessment.
Skin problems can also be common in this breed. Due to the vast amount of hair, it is sometimes difficult to identify them so one should be aware of any redness, rashes, itchy signs or infections that may appear. Hip dysplasia (a kind of wrong hip attachment) is an inherited disease and seen in many dog breeds, especially in the Siberian Husky.
Dogs with this disease should avoid heavy physical exertion, slippery floors and should be treated as soon as possible.
Temperament
Despite the angry face, Huskys can be sociable with other dogs and even children, as long as they are used to them since puppies. Very playful and independent, they are also very stubborn dogs. Its origin makes physical exercise essential for these animals, not only for their health, but because they really love to exercise!
They are always on the alert and, more than barking, they are dogs that love to howl. They are proud animals and need some limits or they will really feel like the owners of the house. They are excellent hunters and their independent personality is a trigger for them to flee in search of a good hunting or adventure.
Intelligence
In the book “The Intelligence of Dogs”, by Stanley Coren, Husky appears in the 45º position. It turns out that these furry ones are very intelligent, but extremely stubborn and therefore difficult to be trained! As they are independent, they are not too concerned with pleasing their tutors and making commands is not their thing.
That is why they need to be educated from a young age and need a lot of patience and attention to be obedient. Daily stimulation should be part of the routine and physical exercises to spend energy too, in order to prevent dogs from getting bored or anxious, which makes training even more difficult. A Husky’s tutor must be a firm and patient person, as scolding and punishing can further worsen his lack of interest in what is proposed.
Life Expectancy
The Siberian Husky has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.
Care
Exercise, exercise and exercise. Your Husky will need at least 60 minutes of exercise every day! Walks, games and tasks need to be part of the routine so that the dog is not bored and anxious. As long as it’s not too hot during the day. For this reason, too, that Siberian Huskys do not do very well in small environments and apartments, they need a minimum of space to exercise.
The food must be balanced and of high quality! As they expend a lot of energy, it is important to feed your dog correctly so that there is no lack of nutrients in his diet. And very important: start training early! This breed can be hard work and the sooner you start teaching what is right and what is wrong, the more peaceful and balanced your coexistence with your Siberian Husky will be.
Curiosities
Husky’s coat can withstand very low temperatures, reaching up to -30º. – The howling of a Siberian Husky can be heard at a distance of 16km!
Latest Posts
The Great Dane obeys orders easily and learns quickly what he can and cannot do! Of German origin, as its name already …
Meet the “Frenchie” Bulldog Also known as “Frenchie”, the French bulldog is believed to have originated in three countries: England, France and …
These dogs are known to be active, playful and very close to the family. The Fox Terrier is a beautiful breed of …
One of the main points of the English Cocker dog is the energy! Initially, the English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel …
They are loving animals with their family, loyal to those they like, somewhat shy and very, very active! The Dalmatian is one …
While they are very sociable and independent, they are loyal and protective Popularly known as “sausage”, the Dachshund (or teckel) breed is …
Very delicate, smart and intelligent Famous for the role of “Lassie”, the Collie is one of the most popular dogs in the …
He is loyal, affectionate and with great enthusiasm for work and play. Created in France, the Clumber is one of the largest …
Chow Chow are extremely furry and super imposing Like a bear, chow chow has no way of passing by without attracting attention. …
Exotic by nature. One thing is certain: no one is indifferent to see a puppy of this breed in its (almost) hairless …
