In general the Siberian Husky is a medium size dog breed that is as happy to be working as it is playing. They are high energy and fun loving with a serious side as well as a comical side. The breed is believed to have originated in Northeast Asia by the Chukchi people. They lived in the extreme cold of Siberia and were introduced to the Nome, Alaska area by a fur trapper. When they were first introduced they were referred to as the "Siberian Rats" as they were much smaller than their cousins the Alaskan Malamutes. (Huskies range in the 40-50 lb range, whereas the Malamutes are in the 75 - 85 lb range.)
They have the Spitz genetic characteristics common to breeds such as the Pomeranian's, Alaskan Malamutes, Alaskan Huskies and a few others. All Spitz genetic dogs have a 'double' coat. The double coat can be a big nuisance when there is a changing of the guard so to speak of. The seasons of the year seems to activate the the shedding process. It helps to know that in the winter, Huskies are kept warm by these double layers and that in the summer, believe it or not, are kept cooler because of these double coats. The change of the hair is continuous: throughout the year, in fact, there is a good loss of hair, immediately replaced by the new one. It is strongly recommended by Husky aficionados, that a good trim by a groomer/owner is okay, but that shaving the dog is never advisable for just maintenance.
Siberian Huskies are born with floppy ears, but as they develop, their ears form a triangular shape that is erect, not floppy. Their tails are also straight as tiny puppies but begin to curl up and wave like a proud patriotic flag. When they are up to mischief, their eyes glisten and you can see, not just imagine a smile on their pretty face. Many have the piercing double blue eyes that help to distinguish the breed, but can also have double brown eyes, parti eyes, where the eye color can be both blue and brown or bi-eyes where there is one eye of brown and another eye of blue or parti.
The overall health of the Husky is great. They are subject to some eye issues, cataracts probably being the most prevalent. They do have food requirements that would be the same for any larger or high energy dog. Their GI System works better with foods that are high in protein and low in wheat, corn, oats etc. They tolerate well starch in the form of potatoes and sweet potatoes. Rawhide chews are not advised as the rawhide can cause blockages in their intestines. Pig ears, although not a human favorite, is definitely a BIG hit the Husky. Hard/dry dog food of a high quality helps to maintain the Husky's health as well as keeps their canine teeth cleaner and whiter...and for any dog, all teeth are canine!!
Huskies are great dogs for the yard that is fenced. Tethering a Husky on an outside line is a safety issue for the Husky and for two legged buddies. Remember, Huskies were bred to pull heavy loads. Because they love their two legged buddies so much, they are super excited whey they are approached by them. They are good inside dogs, so long as they are exercised and pandered to.
Note that the above thoughts are mostly general in nature. We will be able to expound further on the Husky's personality and nature. Pomsky owners find that their Pomskies are very similar to the Husky, except for size.
Keep checking in for further additions to our blog and thank you for your interest!
