Menu

Siberian Husky - Information and NZ Breed Standards

Membership ID
Password

Siberian Husky


General Information - Siberian Husky


Group:
Utility

Size:
large

Lifespan:
11-13 years

Exercise:
high

Grooming:
medium

Trainability:
very low

Watchdog ability:
medium

Protection ability:
very low

Area of Origin:
Russia (Siberia)

Date of Origin:
ancient times

Other Names:
Arctic Husky

Original Function:
Sled pulling



History

The Siberian Husky descends from the Chukchi Sled Dog, which was bred in the Soviet Arctic for over 3000 years before it was introduced to North America. The nomadic tribes that bred the dogs used them to pull sleds and herd reindeer. Like all sled dogs, the breed is able to work hard for long periods of time with little food. In the late 1800's, a fur trader named Olaf Swenson brought the first Chukchi's to North America and began a successful breeding program. The dogs soon gained popularity as excellent participants in the growing sport of sled-racing. The most famous team driver of the time was a Norwegian, Leonhard Seppala, who won the All-Alaska Sweepstakes three years in a row. He later moved to the States and contributed a great deal to the breeding programs of Siberian Huskies on this continent. The breed was officially recognised and renamed the Siberian Husky in 1939. Since then, the popular breed has worked its way into the hearts of many families as a devoted pet.

Temperament

The Siberian Husky is very friendly and gentle. This dog breed is neither overly aggressive with other dogs nor suspicious of strangers.

Upkeep

This is an active dog, bred to run tirelessly for miles. It needs ample daily exercise, either in the form of a long jog or a long run off leash in a safe area. It also loves to pull and enjoys cold weather. It can live outdoors in cool or cold climates, but ideally it can divide its time between indoors and out. Its coat needs brushing one or two times a week - daily during periods of heaviest shedding.

Siberian Husky Links


View Breed Standard

Print General Info

View list of breeders

View available litters

View list of clubs

Select another breed

Select another litter