Origin of the Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky was developed centuries ago by the Chukchis of Northern Siberia. The nomadic tribe used their dogs for many purposes; as a means of transportation, to assist in hunting their food, and as companions for their children. Siberians were first brought to Alaska in 1909 for racing, proving themselves as hardy dogs with speed and endurance.
General Description
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.
Size, Proportion, Substance Height:
Dogs, 21 to 23 1/2 inches at the withers. Bitches, 20 to 22 inches at the withers. Weight: Dogs, 45 to 60 pounds. Bitches, 35 to 50 pounds. Weight is in proportion to height. The measurements mentioned above represent the extreme height and weight limits with no preference given to either extreme. Any appearance of excessive bone or weight should be penalized. In profile, the length of the body from the point of the shoulder to the rear point of the croup is slightly longer than the height of the body from the ground to the top of the withers. Disqualification: Dogs over 23 1/2 inches and bitches over 22 inches.
Size, Proportion, Substance Height:
Dogs, 21 to 23 1/2 inches at the withers. Bitches, 20 to 22 inches at the withers. Weight: Dogs, 45 to 60 pounds. Bitches, 35 to 50 pounds. Weight is in proportion to height. The measurements mentioned above represent the extreme height and weight limits with no preference given to either extreme. Any appearance of excessive bone or weight should be penalized. In profile, the length of the body from the point of the shoulder to the rear point of the croup is slightly longer than the height of the body from the ground to the top of the withers. Disqualification: Dogs over 23 1/2 inches and bitches over 22 inches.
Temperament
The characteristic temperament of the Siberian Husky is friendly, alert, and outgoing. He does not display guard dog qualities nor is he overly suspicious of strangers. Excessive nervous barking is not common in the breed, although they may vocalize in other ways, sometimes "talking" in a low rumble, which may be mistaken for a growl. They will sometimes howl at sirens, or perhaps in loneliness if left alone. It is good to remember that Siberians, like their cousins the wolves, are typically pack animals who do not prefer to be alone. The mature Siberian can be expected to show some measure of reserve of dignity.
