Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies (the term “husky” is a corruption of the nickname “Esky” once applied to the Eskimos and subsequently to their dogs) are considered to be one of the oldest breeds of dogs.

The Chukchi (pronounced ‘chook-chee’) people of north east Asia bred dogs that were kept as companion dogs for their families as well as endurance sled dogs that could carry moderate loads over long distances. Isolated by from the rest of the world, they were able to maintain the purity of their sled dogs for many generations.

In the early 1900’s Alaskans in America became aware of the sled dogs from Siberia and in 1909, the first large numbers of these Chukchi dogs were brought to Alaska to compete in the long-distance All-Alaska Sweepstakes races. The Alaskan dog drivers quickly recognised the ability of these huskies from Siberia and a large number of them were imported to Alaska.

In 1925 the dogs were used in a heroic mission to deliver antitoxin supplies after a diphtheria outbreak in the remote city of Nome.  Known as the ‘Great Race of Mercy’, a team of 20 people and 150 sled dogs transported antitoxin supplies 647 miles across Alaska in five days.

The thrilling ‘serum run,’ reported in newspapers around the world, won Siberians a popularity that has not diminished to this day. Balto, who was the lead dog on the final leg of the journey, remains one of the most honoured hero dogs in canine history – there is a bronze statue of Balto near the entrance of Central Park in New York.

Siberian Huskies are still used today in sled teams and there are social sledding clubs around the world and in Australia. Less adventurous owners simply enjoy the company of this active, sociable and gentle breed.

Siberians require a fair amount of exercise and love a daily walk or jog, but should not be exercised excessively in warm temperatures. When given enough exercise – around 2 to 3 hours a day – they make happy, well-adjusted members of the household. They require secure, dig-proof fencing, as their prey drive and instinct to roam is strong.

Sled dogs by nature, Siberians can pull many times their own body weight, and teaching them to walk nicely on the lead without pulling is almost impossible. If you are after leisurely walks, this is not the right breed. Running is one of their favourite pastimes so you are better off going for a jog with them or teaching them to run next to you when you ride your bike. Their tremendous desire to run is also a danger to them, and for their own protection, they should be kept confined or under control at all times.

Siberians are considered to be particularly difficult to train. Classes and training methods that avoid punishment and use rewards or motivational techniques are highly recommended and are suitable for Siberian Huskies of all ages. Training requires patience, perseverance and an understanding of the arctic dog character. The entire household has to be on board when training a Siberian as consistency is critical for success.

The Siberian husky is a relatively easy dog to care for. Despite their thick double-layered coats, they can live happily in warmer climates with adequate shade and water. They are by nature fastidiously clean and are free from body odour, so often need only a few baths a year. Weekly brushings will help keep the coat and skin in good condition.

Twice a year Siberian huskies shed their undercoats, which need to be ‘raked out’ daily with a pin brush and metal comb. It is at these times that you realise the amazing density and profusion of the typical Siberian husky coat, because there will be fur all over the house and even in the air (although some owners feel that this periodic problem is easier to cope with than the constant shedding and renewal of many smooth- coated breeds).