Siberian Husky Breed description: Character & Co

The Husky is a popular dog breed. The main reason being its attractive appearance. If you want to buy a Husky, you have to be very active. If this is not the case, neither you nor your dog will be happy. The Husky is used to Nordic conditions and suffers a lot in the heat.

When talking about a Husky, you actually mean the Siberian Husky. This dog breed has been recognised by the FCI. The Siberian Husky is classified in group 5 (point and primitive type dogs), section 1 (Nordic sled dogs) with standard no. 270. The country of origin is the United States of America (USA).

This strong and energetic dog must spend many hours a day burning out its energy, both physically and mentally. Suitable sports are:

• Jogging
• Running
• Cycling
• Draft sports (sledge, scooter or similar)

A Husky, that is not stimulated enough, is up to no good. Your garden must be made absolutely escape-proof. The Husky will otherwise find a weak link and will break out to escape for a few hours on its own. When this happens, its distinctive hunting instinct can pose a big risk.

Its enjoyment of socialising with other dogs often end up in unintentional offspring. A mixed breed Husky carries the genes of different breeds. For example, a mixed breed Husky can end up inheriting typical characteristics of another dog breed which tolerates the summer heat better. Very often the Husky is also compared and confused with the Alaskan Malamute, but the Husky is much smaller than the Alaskan Malamute - they look very similar superficially in regards to their colouring.

They are friendly towards people and other dogs. No problems regarding biting incidents or restrictions in dog keeping by the community are known. They are not suitable as watchdogs.

Due to their independent nature they do not think too much of "subordination exercises". Nevertheless, they can be trained. If you already have experience with dogs, you can also reach your goal with patience and a few tricks. A Husky does not bark much, but likes to howl.

What is the origin of the Husky?

The Husky originates in Northern Siberia. There, its ancestors were used as drought and working dogs by the nomadic peoples for over 2000 years. A loyal sledge dog that is willing to work was vital. That is why the Eskimos raised their Husky puppies among the circles of their family. This way, the bond to all family members was strengthened.

Only at the beginning of the 20th century (1907), a Russian fur trader brought these versatile dogs to Alaska. In the beginning he was smiled at when dog sled races were first introduced. These "small dogs" reached good placements in many demanding races. In 1910, the first Husky breeding was founded in Alaska. The initiator was the Norwegian Leonard Seppala (Musher) with his male dog Togo.

Despite the enthusiasm about this robust and original breed (pure breeding), the Husky was only recognised in the USA in 1930 and even later (1966) in Europe.