Tips for Siberian Huskies

Siberian Huskies are proven one of oldest living dog breeds through DNA testing. In the past, they have been sled dogs to the Chukchi, semi-nomadic people. In 1909, Siberian Huskies were brought to the United States to participate in the All Alaska Sweepstakes Race, and was imported to Alaska from then on, until they were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

For more details of how Siberian Huskies and Sled Dog Racing came to be, please click here.

About Siberian Husky

Although often compared to the Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies have their unique differences.

While Malamutes were heavily built for draft work, Huskies were built for speed. They have double coat features to insulate body temperature, and long tails to warm their noses, when asleep. A typical Husky stands 21-23.5 inches tall at the withers (females slightly taller.) The female's ideal weight is about 35-50 pounds depending on size, while males are ten pounds heavier. Their coat color ranges from black and red with whites, or frayed gray.

Tips for Siberian Husky

Call his name first, e.g. "Rocky, sit!" and not command before name, "Sit, Rocky!" Scold him by giving a slight scruff-shake or snarl. In cases, just say "bad dog" or "bad Rocky".

Although petting is understandable, it is best that you put yourself as the Alpha (authority figure), because similar to wolves, Siberian Huskies follow a pack order. Your dog will look at your family as his pack, and you, as the Alpha.

Be sure to establish that you come first before your dog. When he's in your way, make him move and not go around him. Do go to him, call him. If your dog didn't jump to you when you arrive home, ignore him. Eat first before you feed your dog. Do not allow your dog into your bed. (Your dog must not feel overly important with himself, he must know that you're in command, while he must also know he can trust you to care for him.)

Like wolves, Siberian Huskies communicate through eye contact, it is important you look into them when giving orders.

Housebreaking Siberian Huskies isn't that difficult. As this breed has an instinctive sense of going outside and working, all you have to do is enforce your house rules at early age.

When should you start training? Begin discipline and obedience training when he is still a puppy. They are very athletic dogs, but are also independent in nature, so you must have some tolerance and persistence when training.

Motivation and Reward is the simplest way to train; when he does good give him a snack, a pat on the head, or a nice remark.

Some might say that Siberian Huskies aren't the brightest breed of dogs, but they will often do things quoted impossible, and surprise you. When cooped inside, they're most likely to get bored, and nibble on things. It's their temperament to dig holes to lie in, so I'd recommend that you allow them a space in your backyard where they can do so.

Beware! Siberian Huskies are very affectionate and mischievous dogs. They are excruciatingly likable.

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