Siberian Husky

Height: 20 - 23.5 inches
Weight: 35 - 60 pounds
Life span: 11 - 13 years
AKC group: Working
AKC rank: 25

Breed History | Background:

Recent DNA studies indicate that the Siberian husky is among the 14 most ancient breeds recognized by the AKC.
The nomadic Chukchi people of northeast Asia developed them, probably from spitz stock, as sledge dogs.
During the Alaskan gold rush, sled dog racing became a favorite sport. In 1909, a team of Chukchi huskies from Siberia competed in the All-Alaska Sweepstakes. These dogs were smaller than their competition, and didn’t arouse much admiration except from one racer, who immediately imported 70 of them to train for the 1910 race. His three teams placed first, second and third in that race, bringing the breed into the spotlight.
In 1925 the Siberian husky gained worldwide fame for racing 340 miles in six days to deliver serum to diphtheria-stricken Nome. Lead dogs Balto and Togo became national heroes. A statue of Balto stands in central Park. The Iditarod dog sled race commemorates this feat.
The AKC recognized the breed in 1930.
Siberian huskies served in the military as search and rescue teams during World War II.
The breed remains one of the most popular of the Arctic breeds.

Behavioral concerns:

Makes an exuberant and adventurous family member.
Good and playful with children.
Loves to run, and may roam for miles if the opportunity arises.
May not come when called.
Affectionate and demonstrative.
Outgoing toward strangers.
May be aggressive toward strange dogs, but is good with family dogs.
Usually good with household pets, but not always good with strange ones.
Tends to be independent and stubborn.
Does best with a firm owner who can combine reward-based training with good control and leadership.

Suggested exercise needs:

Makes a fairly calm and alert housedog if given adequate exercise. If not given enough exercise, can be overactive and destructive.
Requires daily exercise in the form of a long walk, or preferably, long jog.
A well-fenced yard is essential.
Games can also help provide exercise.
Enjoys very cold weather, and likes to spend time outside when it’s cool.
Becomes overheated fairly easily.
Obedience training is essential not only for control, but for the mental exercise it provides.

Grooming:

Coat is straight, somewhat flat-lying and of medium length, with a soft dense undercoat.
It requires brushing once or twice a week, more often when shedding.
Shedding is above average.

Suggested Nutritional Needs:

Siberian huskies tend to stay in good weight. You must use your hands to feel beneath the thick coat.
Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Medical conditions seen:

Glossary