Siberian Husky Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a fun-loving, adventurous, independent, and stubborn dog with a sweet temperament. This is a great family dog because of their friendly disposition. Though the odd Siberian has been trained to obey commands and not pull on a leash, it is important to realize that this is the exception and not the rule. Don't expect to find any guard dog abilities in this breed; they greet everyone they meet with a warm smile.

The coat of the Siberian Husky is virtually odourless, but they are heavy shedders in the spring and summer. Their coat allows them to withstand the coldest temperatures that can be found on this planet. Their claim to fame is their amazing pulling endurance and their lightning speed. It is important to note that they still retain these qualities to this very day, so plenty of exercise in a fenced area is important.

The Siberian Husky is descended from the Chukchis of North East Siberia. They were bred to pull sledges and to carry killed game back to the village after a day of hunting. They were used by Russian travelers who explored the continent with packs of these dogs.

The first team of Siberian Huskies were used in the 1909 All-Alaskan race; a popular dog sledding race covering 408 miles. The dog aroused little enthusiasm until 1910, when one racer placed 1st, 2nd, and 4th with these dogs. This set the stage for their dominance in the race. Their greatest fame, though, came in 1925 when a team of Siberian Huskies rushed a sled full of life-saving diphtheria serum to the people of Nome, Alaska. They were credited with saving the town. A statue stand Park in their honour.

The first Siberian Huskies came to Canada around 1925 and then into the US, and they were recognized by the AKC in 1930. They served in World War II in the US Army's Search and Rescue division. They were also vital in the Alaskan Gold Rush. Their popularity continues to soar today.