Siberian husky Facts and Ownership Victor Ruiz 10/15/2012 Victor Ruiz October 15, 2012 The Siberian husky is a medium sized is a medium-size, dense-coat working dog breed that originated in north-eastern Siberia. The breed belongs to the Spitz genetic family. It is recognizable by its thickly furred double coat, sickle tail, erect triangular ears, and distinctive markings. Huskies are an active, energetic, and resilient breed whose ancestors came from the extremely cold and harsh environment of the Siberian Arctic. History The Siberian husky, Samoyed, and Alaskan malamute are all breeds directly descended from the original "sled dog." Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest breeds of dog. The term "husky" is a corruption of the nickname "Esky" once applied to the Eskimos and subsequently to their dogs. The history of a Siberian husky dates back to the early 1900's. These hardy dogs were developed in Siberia by the Chukchi people and quickly proved their worthiness. (Siberian Huskies 101) While also used to herd reindeer, their primary responsibility was to haul medium sized loads over great distances in the harsh winter climates. With the help of Siberian Huskies, entire tribes of people were able not only to survive, but to push forth into terra incognita (Wikipedia). Admiral Robert Peary of the United States Navy was aided by this breed during his expeditions in search of the North Pole. 1|Page Victor Ruiz October 15, 2012 Appearance The Siberian husky is a medium-sized working dog, quick and light on his feet and free and graceful in action. His moderately compact and well furred body, erect ears and brush tail suggest his Northern heritage. His characteristic gait is smooth and seemingly effortless. He performs his original function in harness most capably, carrying a light load at a moderate speed over great distances. His body proportions and form reflect this basic balance of power, speed and endurance. The males of the Siberian husky breed are masculine but never coarse; the bitches are feminine but without weakness of structure. In proper condition, with muscle firm and well developed, the Siberian husky does not carry excess weight. Eyes: an almond shape moderately spaced and set slightly obliquely. The eyes of a Husky are ice-blue, dark blue, amber, or brown. In some individual dogs, one eye may be brown and the other blue, or one or both eyes may be "parti-colored," that is, half brown and half blue. (Wikipedia) Coat: The Siberian husky’s coat is thicker than most other dog breeds, comprising two layers: a dense undercoat and a longer topcoat of short, straight guard hairs. (Wikipedia) 2|Page Victor Ruiz Tail: October 15, 2012 Siberian husky tails are heavily furred. The tail should be expressive, held low when the dog is relaxed, and curved upward in a "sickle" shape when excited or interested in something. Size: The breed standard indicates that the males of the breed are ideally between 21 and 23.5 inches tall at the withers and weighing between 45 and 60 pounds. Females are smaller, growing to between 20 to 22 inches tall at the withers and weighing between 35 to 50 pounds. Similar Breeds Alaskan Malamute Alaskan Husky Canadian Eskimo Dog Laika Personality and Behavior Siberian Huskies are loving, gentle, playful, happy-go-lucky dogs who are fond of their families. Keen, docile, social, relaxed and rather casual, this is a high energy dog, especially when young. Good with children and friendly with strangers, they are not watchdogs, for they bark little and love everyone. Huskies are very intelligent and trainable, but they will only obey a command if they see the human is stronger minded than themselves. If the handler does not display leadership, they will not see the point in obeying. Training takes patience, consistency and an understanding of the Arctic dog character. 3|Page Victor Ruiz October 15, 2012 Huskies do not do well if left alone for a long period of time without a great deal of exercise beforehand. A lonely Husky or a Husky who does not get enough mental and physical exercise can be very destructive. Remember that the Husky is a sled dog in heart and soul. (Siberian Huskies 101) Training Training should start at least 3 months into getting your new pup. Don’t overwhelm the pup with excessive commands for that will cause the pup to easily lose interest. Here's the ground rules: 1. Establish yourself as the alpha dog 2. Start early, preferably as a puppy 3. Always be firm 4. Stay Patient These dogs are stubborn, extremely intelligent, and very resourceful so be prepared for anything! Begin your training as early as possible. Because Siberians are pack animals, it's important for you to establish yourself immediately as the "ALPHA" dog. I can't stress this enough. Let your puppy know you're the boss and its not open for debate. Do this correctly, and your husky will recognize you as a leader. They will look to you for guidance and respect your direction. 4|Page Victor Ruiz October 15, 2012 Tips for a Obedient Husky Follow these tips for a highly enjoyable friendship with your furry companioin: Exercise daily to avoid dog from digging and chewing everything up. Always supervise Husky especially when around children Ensure enforcement of house rules. Let the dog know who the “alpha “ is Huskies in History Accomplishments 1933: huskies are bought to America by Navy Rear Admiral (Wikipedia) (Siberian Huskies 101)Richard E. Byrd Domination of All-Alaska Sweepstakes Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race made in honor of 1925 serum run 5|Page Served in the United States Army's Arctic Search and Rescue Unit of the Air Transport Command during World War II. 1925 Serum run to Nome Gained recognition by the AKC in 1930 Victor Ruiz October 15, 2012 Bibliography Siberian Huskies 101. Monday October 2010. <http://www.siberian-huskies101.com/>. Wikipedia. Monday October 2012. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siberian_Husky>. 6|Page