Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky dog breed is believed to be a descendant of the first sled dog, which is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Siberian Huskies originated in Northeast Asia. They were bred by the Chukchi tribe that lived in Siberia.

Known for their stamina and strength, Siberian Huskies were utilised as both transportation dogs and family dogs, helping families survive through harsh and unforgiving conditions to make transport possible and supplies available.

In 1908, Husky dogs were brought to the northern region of the United States during the gold rush to be used as sled dogs. They later participated in popular long-distance sled-dog racing, like the All Alaska Sweepstakes race.

Another sled-dog race called the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is an annual event that celebrates the 600-mile delivery of the 1925 diphtheria serum, saving the epidemic-stricken city of Nome, Alaska in North America.

The long-range relay of mushers ultimately brought fame to the Siberian Husky dog breed, especially Balto, who was the lead dog in the relay. A statue was made in his honour, which can be seen in Central Park, New York.  

Until today, the Siberian Husky’s role includes arctic search and rescue operations, but he is also considered an excellent family pet.

In 1930, the Siberian Husky dog breed was acknowledged by the American Kennel Club. 8 years later a breed club called the Siberian Husky Club of America was formed. The Kennel Club in the UK then officially recognised the breed in the 1970s. It classified the Siberian Husky under the Working Group.

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog that is quick and light on his feet, moving with a smooth and effortless gait.

Male Husky dogs typically weigh 19–27 kilos (40–60 pounds) and are 53–63 centimetres (21–24 inches) in height. Female Husky dogs weigh around 15–23 kilos (35–51 pounds) and measures around 50–58 centimetres (20–23 inches).

Female Siberian Huskies have an average litter size of around 6 puppies. It would take around 12 months for Siberian Husky puppies to reach full maturity.

The Siberian Husky dog breed has a slightly arched back with large ears pointing straight up. His eyes are almond-shaped and oblique with colours of blue or brown.

The Siberian Husky breed’s physical characteristics largely suggest his Northern heritage and reflect power, speed, and endurance—perfect for long-distance sled race.

The body of Husky dogs is compact and well furred with medium-length double coats comprised of dense cashmere-like undercoat and straight, coarse topcoat.

According to the Kennel Club breed standards, all coat colours and markings including white are allowed in the Siberian Husky dog breed. However, merle is considered undesirable.

Siberian Huskies’ grooming routine should include weekly nail trimming and regularly brushing their teeth 2–3 times a week using a vet-approved toothpaste. Their ears need to be checked weekly for redness or odour that may suggest infection.

Bathing should be done only when it is necessary as Siberian Huskies don’t have a doggy odour. To keep the natural oils in their skin and coat, the use of high-quality shampoo is needed.

Grooming isn’t necessarily a fun activity for Siberian Huskies, so make it a positive experience for them early on. When you do your weekly exam, make sure that it’s filled with rewards and praises to lay the groundwork for a positive experience during veterinary check-ups.

Do Huskies shed?

Yes, Husky dogs shed throughout the year. It is a process called “blowing coat,” which requires a lot of grooming. Outside the shedding season, they are easy to groom. Brushing their thick coat should be done once a week with a slicker brush.

Are Huskies hypoallergenic?

No, Husky dogs are not hypoallergenic as they shed heavily more than most dog breeds. Their fur quickly collects dust and dander, which will trigger allergic reactions. So this dog breed is not a suitable companion for people with allergies.

The Siberian Husky dog breed loves exploring, so he is the best companion for people with an active lifestyle. When it comes to his living quarters, the breed’s temperament may not require a lot of space.

Nevertheless, this energetic dog needs more than a small apartment in a crowded neighbourhood to release his high energy. The Siberian Husky breed will need enough room to run and walk around.

Training Siberian Huskies are quite easy because they are smart and perform well in obedience tasks. It’s also because they are pack animals, so they acknowledge leadership especially if they recognise the owner as their leader.

Like every breed, Siberian Husky has predispositions of temperament and intelligence. If you want your Siberian Husky puppy to grow up to be a kind and obedient dog, expose him to different people and experiences whilst he is young.

Is a Husky a good pet?

The Siberian Husky dog breed is a charming, mischievous, intelligent, and loyal companion. He is friendly and not overly suspicious of people and other dogs.

If you’re looking for a guard dog, the Siberian Husky is not for you. He is a highly active and playful dog with a sense of humour, which means your days will be full of action.

Are Huskies aggressive?

No, it is not in the nature of Siberian Husky dogs to be aggressive. However, lack of proper socialisation can lead to behavioural problems, including viciousness towards anyone around them.

Siberian Husky puppies should be socialised early on to foster amiability and friendliness at a young age. Thus, once they mature, they will have a stable temperament and sociable nature.

What's bad about Siberian Husky?

The Siberian Husky dog breed is a bit unruly in that he tends to dig and bury things. However, do not think of it as destructive behaviour. He is only acting on centuries-old instinct. If you don’t want him digging anywhere, make sure that you train him early on to dig in a specific spot.

Do Siberian Huskies attack their owners?

No, Siberian Husky dogs are loving canine companions who treasure their family. But those that grew up in an abusive home may attack their owners to protect themselves from getting hurt. Siberian Huskies who lack socialisation may become aggressive towards their owner as well.

Why you shouldn't get a Husky

The high prey drive of the Siberian Husky dog breed is challenging to curb. You may want to rethink about getting one as a companion dog if you have small pets at home.

The Siberian Huskies are great escape artists, so they will need close supervision whilst outside. It is best to look for another dog breed if you want a pooch that doesn’t have a habit of running away.

Why do Huskies howl?

In most cases, Siberian Huskies howl to communicate with their pack. This can become a problematic behaviour especially if a Husky is suffering from separation anxiety. Thus, make sure to spend enough time with your dog and give him the attention that he needs.

Are Huskies good with kids?

Yes, Husky dogs are good with children because they are friendly at heart. However, due to their playfulness, dog–kids interaction must be supervised to avoid accidental injuries.

Children must also need to be taught not to rough-handle and rough-play with their furry friend as it can hurt the dog and lead him to snap.

Compared to dogs of similar size, the Siberian Husky breed requires a minimal amount of dog food per day. The recommended serving for adult Siberian Husky dogs is 1.5–2 cups of high-quality dry good or specially formulated raw diet daily, divided into 2 meals.

Like any dog breed, the amount, frequency, and type of food depend on his age, size, build, activity level, and metabolism.

Here are the typical calorie needs of an adult Siberian Husky:

• Adult Siberian Husky: 1057 calories per day
• Senior Siberian Husky: 865 calories per day
• Siberian Husky puppy: 2537 calories per day

Siberian Husky owners need to understand that dogs, in general, need little carbohydrates, and with Husky dogs, almost none. Other than a plant-based diet of fruits and vegetables, Siberian Huskies should only be fed with meat (including organ meat), fat, and bone meal.

Like all dog breeds, the Siberian Husky breed is predisposed to several health conditions, including:

Hip Dysplasia

The malformation of the hip joint results in hip dysplasia. It is an orthopaedic disorder that causes pain and eventual lameness. Severe cases of this disease may need surgical correction.

Treating mild cases of this health problem will usually need medications, which may be combined with physical therapy and weight loss management.

Zinc Deficiency

It is one of the most common health issues in Siberian Husky dogs. The lack of zinc in their system can cause hair loss in certain areas of their body, including around the eyes and lips. These symptoms can be alleviated by administering vet-approved zinc supplements.

Uveodermatologic Syndrome

Northern breeds, including the Siberian Husky, are one of the most affected by this health problem. It is an autoimmune disease that leads the immune system to attack the melanocyte in the skin and eyes.

As a result, there will be a premature whitening of the Siberian Husky’s hair and skin and the development of eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy. Although this disease can be treated, irreversible loss of vision is usually inevitable.

Since the Siberian Husky dog breed is an energetic pooch, too much inactivity will cause him to think of activities that you might not consider acceptable such as digging. Regular exercise of at least 90 minutes a day is necessary to avoid destructive behaviours.

Activities such as lead and obedience training are good for the Siberian Husky’s physical and mental health. If you have a spacious back garden, make him run off-lead. Just make sure that the fence is secure beforehand to prevent escaping accidents.

Running will help the Siberian Husky burn off some energy. During winter, you can harness his natural ability by sledding in the snow with him.

How long do Huskies live?

The Siberian Husky dog breed is generally healthy with a lifespan of 12–15 years. Consistently providing his daily needs such as healthy and balanced meals and a happy home environment will ensure that he lives a long life.

Regular vet visits should not be overlooked too, as these will keep your Siberian Husky dog healthy and free from illnesses.

The Siberian Husky dog breed may be of medium size, but he does not require large amounts of meals. Due to this, the total monthly for his food will be only approximately £40–£50.

Welcoming a new furry companion to your home means buying his necessities, including a dog bed, crate, collar, and toys. The combined initial cost for these things is estimated at £100–£400.

Healthcare is also a part of raising a Siberian Husky puppy. Prepare to spend around £30–£60 for each vet check-up. Initial vaccination shots will cost around £100–150, whilst annual boosters cost around £50–£60.

Acquiring pet insurance will help lower the vet bills of your Siberian Husky puppy. If you choose a time-limited package, the monthly fee will be around £15–£20.

Opting for a lifetime cover will cost around £20 to over £30. Mind that the pet insurance price will depend on your puppy’s health and age and your location.

How much is a Husky?

The Siberian Husky price ranges from £1,500–£2,500. Look for a reputable breeder to purchase your puppy from as they aim to breed healthy and well-tempered pups.

Consider getting your Siberian Husky from an animal shelter or rescue organisation. This is a good way to save a neglected dog or puppy and provide him with a forever loving home.