Let's talk Siberian Huskies
Handsome as all get out and incredibly smart, the Siberian Husky is a truly amazing breed for the right owner. And one who is very active. Many recognise the Husky for their abilities in the dogsledding world, but the breed has also gained popularity over the past few years in more domestic settings for its very affable spirit. Known as a pack dog, Siberian Huskies are most content when with their pals—both dog and human. Despite their strong build, a guard dog they are not: The Siberian Husky is immensely friendly.
Official name: Siberian Husky
Other names: Siberians, Husky, Chukcha
Origins: Siberia, Russia
| Drooling tendencies |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Grooming needs |  |
Cold weather? |  |
| Shedding level | |
Suited to apartment living? |  |
| Barking tendencies | |
Can stay alone?* | |
| Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | High | Family Pet?* | |
| Compatibility with other pets |  |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
Male
1 m 53 cm - 1 m 60 cm
Height
21 kg 500.0 - 28 kg
Weight
Female
1 m 51 cm - 1 m 56 cm
Height
16 kg 500.0 - 23 kg
Weight
| Baby age: | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age: | 2 to 12 months |
| Adult age: | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature age: | 7 to 10 years |
| Senior age: | From 10 years |
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Get to know the Siberian Husky
All you need to know about the breed
Perhaps there is no perfect dog but Siberian Huskies might disagree with you: Athletic, highly intelligent, clean, sweet, and innately affectionate, the breed that made its reputation by sledding through cold northern climes is now a favorite with families. Classified as a hyperactive dog, the Siberian Husky temperament is docile in equal measure.
Born pack dogs, it can’t be stressed enough that the Siberian Husky needs to run, and needs a job to do. The breed is not a dog for first-time dog owners. That said, they are hugely loyal, though, and thrive in a family as well as canine unit, not faring well when left alone for long periods of time. It is said of the Siberian that they almost choose whether their owner is worthy of them rather than the other way around.
A stunning dog, the Siberian Husky has become a favourite on the dog show circuit, with their sumptuous yet clean-cut coat and upbeat demeanour making them a standout. The breed is found in many colorations, from black and white, to grey, to red and white to all-white and can often have two different-colored eyes to boot. A plus not found in many dogs: The Siberian Husky is graced with little body odour and is one to self-groom. Little-to-no bathing is necessary and waterless works to preserve the natural oils found in their fur.
Patient, calm training is best from a very early age, and respect in all commands as the breed has a rep for being hard to train. Call them over-confident, but with their amiable side, they’ll fall in line soon enough. The Siberian possesses a high prey drive, so keep the family hamster in its cage.
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2 facts about Siberian Huskies
1. Odour isn’t an issue
Dog lovers who tend toward the fastidious will delight in a breed almost absent of body odour. The Siberian Husky is blessed with the natural occurrence of minimal pungence, a factor that will please those who value the same.
2. Who’s counting calories?
A Siberian Husky’s energy is nonstop so weight gain isn’t a worry for the breed. Double-check their belly by feeling beneath their thick coat, just to make sure. Maybe you can sneak in a belly rub at the same time.
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History of the breed
A sled dog from way back, the Siberian Husky hails from Siberia, the northernmost Russian region that necessitated a robust dog tolerant of the frigid temperatures there. Siberian’s ancestors were developed by the Chukchi, indigenous people who needed dogs to pull their sleds. As temperatures changed in the region and the Chukchi shifted their hunting grounds, they needed a dog that could haul many goods over long distances in temperatures well below zero.
Their sledding heritage took its competitive turn at the beginning of the 20th century when a Russian fur merchant involved the breed in a 653km race in Alaska. Soon, an adoring public took notice and the breed has remained highly popular ever since.
Siberian Huskies were recognised as a breed in 1966.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Siberian Huskies
1. Ears
Triangular, medium-sized ears, closely set and high on head, erect and covered in thick fur, curved at top.
2. Head
Large, rounded head in line with body, tapered muzzle.
3. Body
Graceful body, strong and deep chest, well-proportioned and athletic.
4. Tail
Signature tail curved but not in a loop, quite brushy.
5. Coat
Thick double coat, soft dense undercoat, and straight smooth outer coat.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Siberian Husky
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Caring for your Siberian Husky
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Daily exercise is a necessity for the Siberian Husky. The breed is happiest when they have a job to do—even if it’s accompanying you on a long walk. Bred for hauling loads over long, icy distances, the Siberian Husky has an innate desire to run, for as long as it can. To prevent the dog from running off though – which they may, if given the chance – keeping them on a lead when out is key unless kept in a very well-enclosed area.
The thick double coat of the Siberian Husky needs brushing weekly and a bath only a few times a year, depending on the dirt level, of course. Does the Siberian Husky shed? The breed is considered an above-average shedder – to be noted! – and twice a year, they will shed their undercoat entirely. A pin brush and metal comb will help owners rake out the old coat. Incredibly active, the Siberian will benefit from regular mani-pedis to guard against potential cracks, chips, or splits.
Easily trained and highly responsive, the Siberian Husky benefits from sessions being fun. This is a very social breed who thrives in the company of people and other dogs. Utilising a breed-specific trainer is vital from the dog’s young age, and obedience training will provide necessary mental stimulation. If raising your Siberian to work in harness and for sledding, consult the right trainer or breeder for advice.
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All about Siberian Huskies
Playfulness is one of the Siberian Husky’s best traits, as is their affection for everyone they meet, including fellow dogs. Very athletic and highly agile, the Siberian Husky’s worst flaw is that they can do a disappearing act. A well closed-in yard with a secure fence is kind of a must-have.
Despite their wolf-like appearance, the breed is anything but combative. Reports abound from owners about the breed’s playfulness and highly social manner. The American Kennel Club ranks them as a non-aggressive breed, and notes that Siberian Huskies welcome strangers and those they know – both animal and human – into their sphere with relish.
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Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/