“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. We are to lay aside anything that hinders our progress."
- Hebrews 12:1
Mushing the Midwest since 1995
The Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a breed of medium-sized working dogs that originated in Northeast Asia. These dogs are renowned for their thick double coat, which provides insulation in cold weather, and their striking blue or multi-colored eyes. Siberian Huskies are highly intelligent and energetic, and are commonly employed for sledding and other outdoor pursuits.
Breed Standards
Height: Males: 21-24 inches - Females: 20-22 inches (Considered a medium-sized dog)
Weight: Males: 44-60 lbs - Females: 35-51 lbs
Life Span: 12 - 15 years
Coat: Like most artic breeds, the Siberian Husky should exhibit a thick, soft textured (plush) coat with a dense undercoat nearly as long as the straight guard hairs, giving a smooth outline and good protection to the dog in any weather conditions. The length of coat ranges from medium to long. Though shorter coats are sometimes seen and are favored by sprint racers; the standard medium to long coat is preferred. Any shaggy, curly, and wooly coats or short coats with lack of undercoat is undesirable for this breed standard and considered a fault.
Body Structure: The overall structure of the Siberian should be balanced and proportional to the build of the dog. The build should appear rectangular in length with the hind-quarters proportional to the front legs. The chest should be defined and not narrow. The total muscling of the Siberian should appear well-balanced as well.
Colors & Markings: There is a big range of the allowable colors for the coat of the Siberian: black, gray, agouti, sable, red, and white. There may be solid colors or solid colors with multiple shades as well. There is also many ranges of markings such as: piebald or saddleback. Merle or Brindle patterns are disqualifiable and considered a fault. If you find these colors on a husky; it is most likely mixed with another breed of dog.
Temperament: Being a working breed, the Siberian Husky is a very energetic dog. These dogs are typically happy and inquisitive, yet sometimes can be mischievous if not exercised. They can be a stubborn dog to train as they are considered free-thinkers. It is advisable to start obedience training once you bring your new family member home to avoid an uncontrollable dog later in life. Huskies are considered a pack dog and enjoys the company of humans and other dogs. Huskies are known to have a strong prey-drive towards smaller animals, but can be taught to curb this desire at a young age.
History
The Siberian Husky is a breed of dog that originated in northeastern Siberia. The Chukchi people bred and used them as sled dogs for work, valuing their endurance and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. In the early 1900s, the breed was introduced to Alaska for sled dog racing and quickly gained popularity in the United States. Today, the Siberian Husky can be found competing in the show ring, working in harness, or just hanging out as a family pet.