Linda Forshaw - A New Owners Guide to Siberian Huskies

"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive." Gilda Radner

Siberian Huskies are energetic and powerful dogs with robust figures and a resilient nature. Originally bred for load pulling in difficult conditions, they retain their status as a working breed while also serving as show dogs and family pets. If you are considering getting a Siberian or have done so recently, congratulations! This guide will help you familiarize yourself with your dogs needs in order to ensure a happy, healthy, and long-lasting relationship between you and your dog.

Via Utopialand

Origins of the Breed

According to the American Kennel Club, the history of the Siberian Husky traces back to northeastern Asia, where the nomadic Chukchi tribe developed a unique breed of endurance sled dog to suit their survival needs. The Chukchi people relied on their superior sled dogs to carry loads over long distances in cold climates. In the early 1900s, Siberian Huskies began appearing in sled races in Alaska. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

Physical Characteristics

The American Kennel Club describes the Siberian as a graceful, compact, medium-sized breed with the following characteristics:

* Height: Dogs, 2123.5 inches at the shoulders. Bitches, 2022 inches at the shoulders.

* Weight: Dogs, 5075 pounds. Bitches, 3560 pounds.

* Coat: Medium length with soft undercoat.

* Colors: All colors permitted. In rare cases, their coat is referred to as agouti , a brindle coloring that results in a darker look in the dogs face.

Personality

Although Siberian Huskies may look intimidating to people and other dogs, dont let their powerful appearance deceive youthese dogs are friendly and affectionate as can be. Those who find the appearance of a Siberian Husky intimidating should consider what the Rocky Mountain Siberian Husky Club has to say about the breed :

His rugged endurance, stamina and untiring energy have led to the misconception that the Siberian is a fierce, belligerent animal. Nothing could be more untrue. A Siberian will pull in harness until he drops in the traces. He will vehemently argue the view that only small breeds should be lap dogs. He thrives on affection and returns it doubled. When raised from a pup with a child, a safer, more friendly and faithful companion could not be found.

The Rocky Mountain Siberian Husky Club also describes the breed as adaptable, intelligent independent, and even a bit stubborn at times. They warn that these dogs are natural hunters of small animals, so due care must be exercised if you have smaller pets.

The Perfect Siberian Husky Owner

Though Siberian Huskies make fun, beautiful pets, they have specific needs that owners must fulfill. The Siberian Husky Club of America urges potential owners to consider these factors before committing to a Siberian Husky:

*Siberians are incredibly socialand don't fare well being left alone for long periods of time. If you work all day and dont have another pet, your dog will get lonely and lonely and may indulge in destructive behavior.

* Siberians are active and require frequent exercise . If you dont have an active lifestyle, this is not the breed for you.

* Siberians love to run but dont always look both ways before crossing the street . If your home does not have a fence and is on a busy street, it is not the safest environment for a Siberian.

* Siberians shed their coats . This is not the ideal breed for someone who wants their home to be free of pet hair.

*Siberians love to dig . If you would be crushed to discover your flowerbed dug up, this mischievous breed is not for you.

Potential owners should seriously consider whether they are able to commit to this energetic, outgoing breed for its lifetime . Not everyone can keep up with a Siberians social and physical needs. If you feel that you can, a Siberian will make a wonderful addition to your household.

Housetraining your Siberian Husky

Siberians are no more difficult than other breeds to housetrain , but they will not respond well to any form of negative training like shouting and intimidating behavior. Positive reinforcement and praise are essential for reinforcing correct bathroom behavior. Any dog will naturally have the occasional accident while being housetrained, but it is up to the responsible dog owner to keep cool and carry on regardless.

Crate training is the most effective method for housetraining a Siberian and usually takes between one and two weeks. This method works, because your dog will consider the crate a den and will not want to use the bathroom in it. Take your puppy outside on a consistent scheduleas often as every hourto give him a chance to go to the bathroom and associate that action with being outside. Dont wait too long, or your dog will have no choice but to go to the bathroom in the crate.

If you are too busy to stick to a crate training schedule, use the paper training method. Put down a potty pad in a designated area, and when your puppy shows signs of needing to go to the bathroom, like sniffing the ground and squatting, place him on the paper. He will learn to associate the action with that area. This way, your puppy will be able to use the bathroom even if you are not at home to bring him outside.

The paper training method is not meant to be permanent, especially with large breeds like Siberians. Some owners slowly move the potty paper closer to the door to transition their puppy to using the bathroom outside. Paper training takes longer and is not as effective as crate training, but it is helpful for busy owners who are gone for long periods of time.

While your puppy is using the bathroom, reinforce the action with a voice command like go potty. By associating the act with a word, eventually your puppy will be able to go on command. Always offer a great deal of praise accompanied by a special treat when your puppy is successful. Be consistent, and your efforts will pay off.

Socializing Your Siberian Husky with People

Because they are such social creatures, proper socialization of a Siberian Husky is critical. The process ensures the emotional health and physical safety of your Siberian and the people with whom your dog comes in contact. According to dog care and training blog Shiba Shake, a well-socialized dog will be confident and less likely to act in out in fear or aggression.

Start socializing your Siberian by introducing him to many different people. Encourage people to pet him and offer a small treat. Your dog will learn to associate the people around him with positive experiences.

Take your Siberian to a variety of locations. Different environments like the park, a busy shopping area, and puppy obedience classes will offer your puppy an array of stimuli and will allow you to identify any situations in which your puppy seems less confident.

Shiba Shake advises against playing rough with a Siberian. It's generally not wise to play rough with a Siberian, because this may encourage rough behavior with other unsuspecting or even fearful humans.