History of the Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky originated in the far Northeastern part of Siberia and was probably developed by the Chukchi people; nomads who relied on their dogs for travel and hunting.  The husky is one of 14 breeds identified through genetic evaluation as being "ancient".  The husky is paired with the Alaskan Malamute as having very closely related origins.  The husky first came to the United States across the Bering Strait in the early 20th century and earned renown as a sled dog in Alaska, becoming legendary as the sled dogs that succesfully delivered diptheria serum to Nome Alaska during the epidemic that threatened the entire community.

Characteristics of the Husky

"The Siberian Husky is a medium sized dog bred originally to travel long distances at moderate speeds.  The husky is a pack animal and as such must live as part of a group to be content.  This is not a dog who should be left alone to entertain himself all day while his people are working; he will find ways to occupy himself that will most certainly not be to your liking.  (see pictures below).  Huskies do not have a sense of territory.  They will not "defend" or guard possessions or property.  Huskies have a deeply ingrained desire to "run".  They seem to have an insatiable urge to travel and are notorious escape artists.  They can dart through an open door, over or under or through a fence in an instant and disappear.  They require thoughtful containment systems.  A 6 foot fence with electrified wire at the top and bottom is ideal.

 They typically do very well with children and are great playmates.  Huskies typically have a high prey drive and may be unable to resist hunting the family cat.  Some do well with small "prey" like cats, but require careful training from puppyhood.

Huskies are gregarious and can be very talkative.  They don't have a typical dog "bark", but instead "woo" and can raise a tremendous racket howling (also known as "singing" by those in denial).

Husky-caused Mayhem