Ready to gaze into the beautiful blue eyes of the Siberian Husky? Big hearts, fluffy bodies and sometimes humorous markings around their eyes make Huskies exceptionally appealing dogs. However – they can be a handful! Huskies are usually associated with snow-sledding but have become a popular household pet. Jump aboard the sled and get to know the Husky.
History
Originally known as Chukchis, Huskies were used for hundreds of years by the Chukchi Tribe in Eastern Siberia as watchdogs as well as to hunt and pull sleds. Thought to originate from Spitz stock, Huskies developed thick coats for the extremely cold conditions and showed hardiness working for long hours in packs. Later, they were brought to Alaska by fur traders but became more famous in dog racing in the early 20th century.
One of the finest moments in Husky history occurred in 1925 when 150 Siberian Huskies travelled 674 miles across Alaska in an astonishing five and a half days to deliver life-saving medicine to the people in the town of Nome. They even have a statue in Central Park, New York to commemorate the legendary journey. Mush, mush!
Health
Siberian Huskies can be expected to live for around 12-15 years.
Characteristics
Not for novices
Siberian Huskies may look adorable but they can certainly be a handful. Determined and energetic, huskies are a loveable but challenging breed that can sometimes bit too much for a first time owner to handle. They also have a reputation for escaping, so an enclosed garden is a must.
Shed-tastic
Huskies have two layers of fur that is pretty low maintenance for most of the year but they do shed their heavy coat roughly twice a year, be ready for a lot of hair and regular brushing in spring and autumn.
Not a sunbather
Hailing from the cold climates of Siberia, Huskies aren’t naturally suited to hot weather so shouldn’t be walked during the hottest parts of the day and need nice shady areas to cool down in during the summer.
Training
Siberian Huskies are difficult to train and not suited for a first time dog owner. With an experienced owner who shows persistence they’ll make wonderful family dogs.
Housebreaking
Siberian Huskies can be difficult to housebreak.
Where to find Huskies
Husky Groups
Want to pick up training tips or swap shedding stories? Find a Husky group below.
Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain
Adopt a Husky
Want to adopt a Husky in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
The Siberian Husky Welfare Association UK
Husky Education Aid Rescue Team
Huskies in Need
Siberian Husky Club
Breeders
Sold on the Husky? Find an approved Siberian Husky breeder below.
Kennel Club Assured Breeder
Do you own a Husky?
If you own a Husky let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #dogbuddybreed so we can filter your images!