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If you
are not familiar with the Siberian Husky this part is for you. Here we will attempt to
inform and educate you about this wonderful breed and help you in your search for a
responsible breeder. We have included information such as feeding, things to watch
for when looking for a puppy and selecting a breeder, information on Hip Dysplasia and Eye
Disorders, etc. If we have left anything out or provided inaccurate information we
welcome the comments of the fancy.
You are here
because of your interest in the Siberian Husky and wanting one is not uncommon. What
may come as a surprise is what the breed is all about. Without a doubt, the Siberian
Husky is one of the most striking, beautiful dogs to be found anywhere. Their
unique coat and eye colors as well as markings, size and temperament makes them most
desirable to you. However, the Siberian Husky is not a breed for everyone and due to
the nature of the breed you must think hard about weather or not you want to put up with
the coat shedding and the running, two of the most hard to live with characteristics of
the breed.
A
brief history of the breed and it's beginning a can be found on our Links page,
just click on AKC. Our objective here is to tell you what the
standard doesn't and why careful consideration must be given before you
decide to add one to your family.
While the
Siberian is a medium sized breed, they do need exercise which will require a yard.
They like to run so this yard must be fenced, preferably with a block wall. They are
curious and always like to see what is going on and a determined Siberian may not be
detained by a wooden fence. Ideally, the fence should be 6' tall, and care must be
taken to advise those who may enter that this breed likes to run!
When out of your fenced yard, they need to be
leashed at all times because once loose they only look back to see if you are coming so
they can run faster!
As a family
pet they are excellent with children and generally get along well with other dogs.
Cats may be another matter and it is best to keep them separated unless they are raised
with them and even then, they should not be left alone together. While Siberians are not determined "cat killers" they do
have a prey instinct which can result in severe, sometimes fatal, injuries
to cats and other small animals.
Part of the
beauty and allure of the Siberian is it's coat, which can be seen in a variety of colors
and varying shades. This is a double-coat consisting of a dense, thick undercoat and
a slightly longer outer, or guard coat. Many people do not want the grooming
required when the Siberian sheds. Shedding usually occurs twice a year when they
will loose their undercoat resulting in a "moth-eaten" look until it either
comes out or is brushed out. During this time they require extra grooming to remove
the dead coat before your backyard looks like snowfall in mid-summer. They are a
clean dog and do not have the usual doggy odor therefore not needing frequent bathing.
The Siberian
is a social animal and usually does best with another dog. If you are looking for a
dog to live in the backyard without daily interaction with you, this is not the
breed. They are intelligent and will get bored which leads to destructive
behavior as they will dig and chew to amuse themselves. They are not a barking
breed consequently they do not make good watchdogs. They can be obedience trained
but it takes a bit more patience than with some other breeds due to their inquisitive
nature and they bore easily, always looking for new challenges.
So,
if you don't mind the extra care it takes to secure your Siberian, if
you don't mind a little extra brushing at shedding time, if you don't
mind the excited tail-wagging as they see you and the wet husky kisses,
if you aren't looking for a watch dog, if you are looking for a great
family pet, if you want a dog to be a part of your family on a daily
basis then this just may be the breed for you. For more
information, click the "back" button below select the next
topic that interests you.
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