Siberian Huskies were bred in northeast Asia as sled and hunting dogs. Working huskies run all day with loaded sleds behind them. Pet huskies also need a LOT of exercise. For this reason they are best suited to active families who will take their Siberian husky running, cycling and hiking and who will spend a lot of time engaged in interactive play and training.
While they can be aloof, huskies can make good family pets, as the
y get on well with children, adults and most other pets. However, huskies have a strong prey drive, so having them around small animals isn’t a good idea.
Their high exercise needs often land the Siberian husky in trouble with families who underestimate just how much work they require. Many people surrender their huskies to rescue organisations, where they live out their days in a small kennel. So, before you approach registered breeders to find out about Siberian husky puppies, why not pay a visit to a shelter and rescue an older puppy or adult dog?
Siberian Huskies Facts & Information
Group: Siberian Huskies belong to the Nordic group of working dog breeds.
Life expectancy: 10 – 15 years
Size: Medium to large. Height: 20 – 24 in. Weight: 35 – 60 lb.
Temperament: Friendly, fun-loving, gentle, playful, occasionally aloof and confident.
Exercise: Siberian huskies need a lot of exercise to keep them from becoming bored and destructive. Two long walks/jogs/cycles per day are a minimum. Incorporate plenty of play and positive reinforcement-based training to keep their minds busy. They are escape artists and need a secure, enclosed garden. Microchip your husky so she can be identified if she succeeds in her attempts at freedom.
General care: Siberian huskies have thick coats but they aren’t generally grooming intensive. During shedding season, however, you need to brush your husky daily.
Health concerns: Siberian huskies are not immune to some of the common health problems that plague dogs, such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand disease (blood disease) and crystalline corneal opacity (lipids or calcium in the cornea). Get a quote for pet dog insurance and cover your husky for medical emergencies and health problems.
Final word
Siberian huskies make good family pets as they love children, adults and other animal company. However, they need families who understand their needs and know how to manage sled dogs. Early socialization, puppy classes and ongoing training are essential so that you can fully reap the benefits of owning a Siberian husky and your husky gets the full benefits of a loving family.