Description

Alaskan Huskies are usually leaner in build than Siberians. Siberians often have blue or any combination of blue and brown eyes, where as Alaskan Huskies often have brown eyes.

Origin

Alaskan Huskies are carefully bred to produce the best working dogs possible. The breeding of the Alaskan Husky are planned breedings and are technically pedigreed, however they are not consider pure and are not registered by the AKC or CKC because they are sometimes crossed with other Northern and non-Northern breeds to produce the best working dogs possible.

Temperament

Alaskan Huskies are primarily bred as working dogs. They have greater endurance in sled racing than Siberian Huskies do. These dogs are gentle and playful, but willful and mischievous. This cheerful dog is very fond of his or her family. A puppy at heart, they are clever, sociable and loving, easy-going and docile. Though they do generally have a lot of energy, especially as puppies. 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 have a mind of their own and will only obey a command if they see the point. Training takes patience, consistency and an understanding of the Arctic dog character. This dog will take advantage if he can. Huskies make an excellent jogging companion, as long as it is not too hot. Huskies may be difficult to housebreak. This breed likes to howl and gets bored easily. They do not like to be left alone, so if this is the breed for you, you may want to consider having two. A lonely Husky can be very destructive. Remember that the Husky is a sled dog in heart and soul. They are good with other pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Huskies are thrifty eaters and need less food than you might expect. This breed likes to roam. Alaskan Huskies can make wonderful companions for people who are aware of what to expect from these beautiful and intelligent animals. Although there are 'exceptions to every rule', there are a number of breed characteristics that are generally present among members of this arctic breed.

Height

Height: 24 inches (61 cm.)

Weight

Weight: Dogs up to 100 pounds (47 kg.) Bitches- about 78 pounds (34

Known Health Problems

-

Conditions for Living

They are not usually recommended for apartments, however they can live in apartments if well trained and properly exercised. Alaskan Huskies are very active indoors and do best with a fenced-in large yard. Because of their heavy coats, these dogs prefer cool climates. One has to use common sense with respect to maintaining them in the heat by providing adequate shade and air conditioning. This breed prefers to live in packs.

Exercise Requirments

daily walks. Take caution excessively exercising in warm weather. They need a large yard with a high fence, but bury the wire at the base of the fence because they are likely to dig their way out and go off hunting.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years.

Grooming

The coat does not need much care except during the twice a year heavy shedding season, when they have to be combed thoroughly with a metal comb.

Group

Working