Siberian Husky

With its independent spirit and energetic resilience, the Siberian Husky is descended from one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. Known for their ability to withstand cold temperatures and strength, Siberian Huskies traditionally worked as sled dogs. Today, they are popular family pets and show dogs. Native to Siberia, this breed still resembles and exhibits many behaviors associated with its genetic ancestor, the wolf. Huskies tend howl rather than bark and often show predatory behaviors; they are fine hunters and, therefore, need to be supervised around other small pets.

Though bred as work dogs by Siberian tribes like the Chukchi, Siberian Huskies can be quite social, which is why they have become popular family pets. Throughout their history in their homeland and when they were introduced to Alaska, these dogs allowed many northern tribes to travel and hunt in their harsh climate. In fact, they remain popular in these cold northern regions today. Their contribution to humankind is still celebrated in dog sled races like the Iditarod.

Medium size siberian husky dog breed

Male Siberian Huskies can grow to a weight of roughly sixty pounds. Females typically weigh about ten pounds less than their male counterparts when fully grown. Siberian Huskies are especially well known for their eyes; these dogs may boast blue, brown, and even green eyes. In fact, it’s very common for individuals to boast two different colored eyes. Siberian Huskies’ coats may be white, sable, black, wolf gray, brown, or dark gray. Some may boast red-tipped coats. With their triangular, erect ears, and scissor-like bite, Siberian Huskies greatly resemble wolves–perhaps more than any other breed of dog save for wolf hybrids.

Eager siberian husky being trained to do tricks

Siberian Huskies shed twice a year. During the winter months they sport their heavy coats. As cold-loving dogs, they are not fond especially fond of summer months and should not overly exert themselves in hot weather. Huskies are also clean dogs and will keep themselves tidy, another wolfish trait. Both intelligent and trainable, Siberian Huskies, like wolves, respect a natural pack hierarchy when exposed to other dogs. In order to thrive, Siberian Huskies require a lot of exercise. They like to roam and hunt and will not happily submit to confinement in close quarters. For this reason, they are not ideal companions for apartment dwellers. The more room and exercise this breed has, the better it will do.

While puppies need a good deal of socialization to instill obedience, these dogs do make excellent pets provided their needs are met. Because they are large dogs that can be quite rambunctious when young, care should be taken when they are in the company of young children.