Breed History / Description
The lightest and fastest of the sled dogs, the Siberian Husky originates in the Northeast of Siberia and was known also as the Chukchi sled dog after the tribe of Eskimos who used the breed for long distance sled hauling. The extreme and remote location meant that breeding was kept undiluted for centuries as the Chukchi castrated all but the best ‘lead dogs’ and since the dogs lived alongside the families, they were bred selectively for working abilities and temperament.
By the early 20th Century the Siberian Husky had established itself as supreme in the world of sled racing and they have been part of many famous expeditions. In 1925 a team of Siberians came to the rescue of Nome, a town in Alaska that was suffering a major diphtheria epidemic. A relay of Husky teams transported the life-saving serum hundreds of miles. A statue commemorating the achievement of the dogs is located in Central Park, New York. The Siberian Husky is part of the Working Breed Group.
Characteristics
Medium size, moderate bone, well balanced proportions, ease and freedom of movement, and good disposition.
Temperament
Friendly and gentle, alert and outgoing. Does not display traits of the guard dog, not suspicious with strangers or aggressive with dogs but some measure of reserve expected in mature dog. Intelligent, tractable and eager disposition. An agreeable companion and willing worker.
Club, K., 2018. The Kennel Club's Breed Standards. 5th ed. London SW1V 2SA: Ebury Press.