The Siberian husky is a friendly, loyal, and attentive breed, however, you need to think before you get a husky, because, despite its positive qualities, it ranks among the most complicated breeds when it comes to education. In today’s article, we will tell you 5 things to think about before you buy a husky and at the same time outline the history of the breed and its typical features.
Siberian husky and its history
The history of the breed is not fully researched, but it can be said with certainty that the history of this breed dates back to the 19th century when this breed was used by the inhabitants of Siberia to pull goods and burdens, and at the same time served as a certain element of entertainment for nomads and their families and last but not least, they were also family members and also a source of warmth. This breed became very popular after conquering a run in extreme conditions to obtain the necessary gold rush medicine – they did it. They achieved great performances and thus began to be considered snow dogs. The subsequent expansion to the USA and Europe only confirmed the uniqueness of this species and now the Husky breed is a common part of society.
Nature and features
The Siberian Husky is a very intelligent dog, but these dogs are also rather independent and stubborn individuals. They are comfortable with human company, but they need firm and gentle training from puppyhood. They are dogs bred to run, and their love of running can sometimes surpass their love for their guardians. Siberian Huskies tend to be friendly with people, including children.
Most Siberian Huskies get along well with other dogs, especially those they have been raised with. They have hunting instincts and can chase cats and other smaller animals. As a rule, Siberian Huskies do not tend to bark, but they often howl.
Even though the Husky breed is one of the most popular in the world, it has a lot of specific characteristics that must be taken into account when you decide on this breed.
Today we will introduce 5 things to think about before getting a husky.
Husky as pack leader
The Siberian Husky has been used to living in a pack since ancient times. Living in a pack means several things to you and your family. When it comes to training, you need to understand the importance of being a commander.
Because Huskies have this pack lifestyle ingrained in them, they have an extreme sense of hierarchy, just like in packs, and this has a huge effect on their behavior.
The point is to make sure your husky knows the hierarchy in your household. Otherwise, he will turn the whole apartment upside down and never listen to you. It’s simply important that he knows who’s boss. In general, breeds with strong pack instincts need strong leadership and a firm (but fair) trainer to make them truly happy and obedient.
Movement, movement, movement
You already know that huskies need a lot of exercise, but there’s more to it than that. Husky needs intensive exercise in particular. The most important thing is to understand consistency. One run or walk a day is not enough for a Husky – he needs it several times a day and he will need it tomorrow and the day after. If you deny this to your husky – a rebellion may follow in the form of destructive behavior and disobedience.
Watch out for escapes
These dogs are known for being very athletic. A fence is no challenge for these breeds, they can easily climb over it or burrow under it. Closed doors and gates aren’t enough – they’ll find a way to open them and get free if possible exits aren’t properly secured, but that’s usually only a problem if movement needs aren’t properly met. They have a strong desire to run and usually also have a high prey drive, which means that if your fence is not high enough or secure enough, your neighbors’ cats can become quite easy prey. That doesn’t mean they can’t live happily alongside smaller pets, they just usually have a strong hunting instinct. Great care must be taken to keep them at a safe distance from livestock.
Will you spend a lot of time together?
Huskies are very social, and due to their origins, Nordic breeds are often happiest in the company of other dogs. No dog should be left alone for long hours, but separation problems are common in arctic breeds that are left for long periods of time, especially those that do not get enough exercise. Dogs suffering from separation problems can become destructive, but if this happens the dog should never be punished; yelling at the dog or physically punishing the dog will not solve the problem behavior and will likely make it worse.
They love to show off
In most cases, the Husky loves to express himself in the form of howling, barking and making other strange sounds. If you like peace and quiet, huskies may not be the right breed for you. Of course, with all that being said, all Huskies are truly different and some are louder, some quieter than others. However, in order to avoid surprises, it is ideal to count on the fact that your Husky will like to talk to you while watching a movie, but maybe even while sleeping at night. Husky can howl, chirp, sing, mimic and almost talk. Most of the time this is harmless fun and they are simply trying to communicate with you.
If you roughly follow the basic rules for raising a husky and are consistent, you can certainly become an inseparable couple!