Siberian Husky

In their land of origin, Huskies are cherished working dogs. Used for hauling sleds, their strength and stamina allow them to make phenomenally long journeys. In the West, they are usually kept as companion dogs although sled dog racing is growing rapidly.

Husky sled dogs were the only means of transport in Alaska during the gold rush of 1900. In 1920, a team of 20 Siberian Huskies pulled a sled 340 miles, carrying vaccines to the diphtheria-stricken city of Nome, saving the population. A statue of a sled dog located in Central Park. New York, celebrates that remarkable achievement.

Elegant and athletic, the Siberian Husky does not bark but howls and talks instead.

The Siberian Husky is gentle, friendly, intelligent and biddable. Because the breed lived closely, probably for thousands of years, with the Chukchi nation, they are "people orientated' dogs. Easy-going, easy to train and anxious to please their owners, Siberian Huskies are essentially pack dogs who understand and love their family, particularly children.

must know

Hip dysplasia is present in the Husky with a low breed average. There are some eye problems, so it is important that puppies should come from eye-tested parents.

This dog is very alert looking, medium sized and lithe with grace. It has an abundant weatherproof coat of which the undercoat is thick and soft. The breed comes in many different coat colours, and the facial colours can be contrasting, unusual and striking. Dogs are 53-60cm (21-24in) in height, whereas bitches are slightly smaller.

Siberian Huskies are energetic and friendly dogs. If they are not working, they need to be busy and you have to devote a lot of time to play and exercise.

Strangers 1/5

Just not a guard dog, too easy-going

Temperament 4/5

Kind gentle and affectionate

Exercise 5/5

A glutton for running; try cart training

Grooming 5/5

Bi-weekly deep grooming required

Other dogs 2/5

Generally friendly, good disposition

Summary

An excellent companion for energetic families

Without their work. Siberian Huskies need frequent running exercise to keep them both physically and mentally fit and healthy, and new owners should really consider joining a specialist club which races with wheeled carts. Do not own one unless you are fit and very energetic. These dogs moult freely and their double coat must be groomed by combing it at least twice a week, or the undercoat can knot.

want to know more?

• The Kennel Club book on Breed Standards has detailed information on all the breeds featured
• Find the websites of the breed societies and clubs on the Internet